Starlites Revive capped a remarkable season by clinching the BOV Basketball First Division League title, defeating Hibernians 3โ2 in a thrilling best-of-five playoff finals series.
The triumph marks a historic achievement for the Naxxar-based club, who dominated throughout the campaign. Starlites went unbeaten in the regular season, showcasing consistency and resilience before carrying that form into a successful playoff run.
The finals series proved highly competitive. Hibernians drew first blood, winning Game 1 (95โ90), but Starlites responded with authority, taking Game 2 (85โ73) and Game 3 (100โ84) to move within one win of the title. Hibernians forced a decider after edging Game 4 (88โ83), setting the stage for a dramatic Game 5.
In the decisive encounter, Starlites delivered a composed and dominant performance to secure a 98โ77 victory. After a closely contested opening period, which they edged 25โ22, Starlites took control in the second quarter with a decisive scoring run, building a commanding 56โ37 halftime lead. Musa Jallow played a key role, contributing 19 first-half points.
Despite a spirited effort from Hibernians in the second half, Starlites maintained control, leading 79โ59 at the end of the third quarter. Hibernians briefly threatened a comeback, cutting the deficit to 85โ74 with four minutes remaining, but a timely timeout by coach Paul Ferrante halted their momentum. Starlites regained composure and closed out the game comfortably.
Jackson Threadgill led all scorers with 28 points, while Jallow added 25 in a strong all-round team performance.
The league title completes a clean sweep of major domestic honours for Starlites, who had already lifted the Super Cup, the Joe Tabone Shield, and the BOV National Knock-Out Trophy earlier in the seasonโcementing one of the most successful campaigns in the clubโs history.
Following the final, the league trophy was presented by Stefan Abela, Community Relations Manager at Bank of Valletta, together with Joseph Muscat of the Malta Basketball Association.
Individual honours also followed, with Musa Jallow named Most Valuable Player of the playoff finals, recognising his decisive contribution to Starlitesโ championship-winning run.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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