The 2019 Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges (UPAC) Basketball Championship came to an end over this past weekend at the University of Ghana (UG) Central Court.
UG topped Takoradi Technical University (TTU) 37-32 in the final game to win a record fourth UPAC title. UG’s also holds the longest winning run record in the competition after not losing a game since 2016.
However, the team survived an onslaught from Accra Technical University (ATU) in the semifinals to progress to the final game.
The matchup was easily the best game in the just ended competition as both teams delivered another classic performance to endear themselves as the biggest rivals at Ghana’s Tertiary level.
ATU battled from a 7-13 and 20-26 first and second quarter deficit respectively to lead 37-35 heading to the fourth quarter.
After several lead changes and outstanding marksmanship from ATU Forward Daniel Laryea, teammate Frederick Asante stole the ball and dunked after converting a three point shot to give his side a 52-48 lead with less than two minutes left to play.
However, ATU’s foul troubles bit them hard as UG converted several free throws with Aminu Abibu converting a ton to pip ATU.
The fallout from the loss ended in a no show from ATU in the bronze medal game at KNUST as a sign of protest against what the team believed was unfair treatment by game officials
By Yaw Adjei-Mintah
@YawMintYM on Twitter
