The semi finals of Coronation Cup 2017 saw the fall of Pazaps, and the defending champions Thimphu Magics win their second straight appearance in the final without losing a game in the tournament August 7.

The semi finals also silenced the crowd consisting of mainly Crack Jacks supporters, the team that never lost and had stunned team Effects in the quarter final.

Delinquents had knocked out Wizards, a heavy weight in the championship in quarter finals. The finalist came too strong into the semis and humbled Crack Jacks 68-59.

Tashi Dorji of Delinquents said both the teams are young and talented.

“We’ve equal respect for the opponents. They are equally potent. We played a bigger team in the previous game and we’re confident about the win,” he said.

“The time has come for us to own the court. We’re hopeful about the final. We grew up playing together and we win the game together,” said Tashi Dorji.

In the other semi final, Pazaps were caught in trouble early on when Thimphu Magics led 26-17.  What appeared to be a match of equals, Pazaps chased the lead with long shots. Thimphu Magics continued their lead forcing in shots from close to the basket.

Down the third quarter, the defending champions were conditioning themselves to be more composed as they prevented Pazaps’ offensive attempts. The match ended 85-67 in favour of Thimphu Magics.

Dago Retty of Thimphu Magics said the team is confident to defend their title. “Our thought is all about the title,” he said, adding that in a year or two the sport will be dominated by the young ones.

“There are many upcoming teams and we need to encourage them,” he said.

Thimphu Magics will play Delinquents in the final of coronation. While Thimphu Magics will look forward to defending the title today in swimming pool complex.

Team Gonjas and Taras will play for the trophy in the women category. Gonjas defeated BOC 55-46 and Taras made into final thrashing Mawongpas 53-36 in the semis.

The finals will tip-off at the swimming pool complex at 5 pm today.

Nima