‘Exposure and upping officiating standard key to growth of state basketball’
Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 9
‘Exposure and adapting’ were the words emphasised by International Basketball Federation (FIBA) referee Atanu Banerjee, who was part of a two-day basketball clinic held in Dimapur. The clinic was organised by the Dorians Society in association with the Nagaland Basketball Association by roping in Banerjee and two other basketball professionals - Satyabrata Nayak and Amalendu Kumar Singh.
Speaking to the media as the coaching camp for players, coaches and referees concluded today at the Dimapur Government College basketball court, Banerjee said that state basketball players need exposure to adapt to the modern trend of basketball. Emphasising on the key aspect of officiating, he said, “Unless the officiating standard is professionalized, there will be no room for guidance,” while adding that skilful officiating standard can take state basketball to the next level.
While stating that a couple of days is not enough for a basketball coach to form a clear idea about players, he added, “There is nothing wrong with the talent of the players here, instead it was surprising to see them play well as beginners; the problem is the lack of basketball basics which need to be refined with more time.”
Executive Director of Impact, Senti Longkumer, also a basketball enthusiast, who participated at the camp highlighted the importance of knowing basics. According to him, a lack of basic knowledge of the game could be a reason for the state not producing fine players to compete at higher levels. In this regard, he suggested the idea of a basketball body for Dimapur district, which he added would give room to produce state level players.
As regards a district level basketball body, Dorians Society chairman Aomeren Longkumer informed that the society has been given the opportunity to form the Dimapur District Basketball Association. With the formation, he added that the society will be organising a state level championship in November for both boys and girls.
