The first final of the Pepsi A-league, played between Wizards and Thimphu Magics saw the former edge over Thimphu Magics by two and a half baskets.
Wizards defeated Thimphu Magics 76-71 entering the second final with an advantage.
It was a calm start with both the teams pitching equally skilled players. With swift passes, Thimphu Magics gained momentum gradually, but Wizards maintained a lead from pointer shots.
Wizards appealed against the repeated foul calls by match officials. The match, however, kept the packed stadium cheering throughout.
The first quarter ended 15-15. Wizards were leading the match by 36-28 in the second quarter. However, team fouls on Wizards helped Thimphu Magics close the chase by one and a half baskets by the end of third quarter.
Thimphu Magics came to the lead when it took over Wizards towards the end of the final quarter. However, Wizards stood strong and affirmed the results with a pointer. The first final ended in favour of Wizards 76-71.
The finals are played in best of three sets. If Wizards bags a second win today the team will lift the league’s title for the second time. However, if Thimphu Magics win the second final game, the finals will be extended to the third set.
Considered one of the prestigious and top basketball leagues by many basketball enthusiasts in the country, Pepsi A-league that plays 10 teams has reached finals on March 28. The league began on February 21.
Wizards that bagged the title during the second edition of the league in 2016, entered the final defeating Phojas in the semi-final. Wizards have now played three consecutive finals in last three years.
Thimphu Magics beat defending champions Jachungs, in the other semi-final to deny it a spot in the finals for the first time in last three years.
The finals were played between Wizards and Jachungs for the two editions of 2016 and 2017.
The league operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the Pepsi B-League. This edition of the league saw Jaguars that played the first final of the league relegate. Team RBG was also relegated.
The champions of Pepsi B- league 2018, Delinquents and the runners-up, Nordics, will replace the two relegated teams. They were promoted to Pepsi A-league recently. The duo will play Pepsi A-league for the first time in the next edition of the league.
The second final of the league begins at 5:30pm in swimming pool indoor basketball stadium today.
Nima