Paul Clarke, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Ten teams are lining up for a title-run in the ISSA/KFC Western Conference Basketball Championships, set to get under way with an opening ceremony and dress parade at the G.C. Foster College in Angels, Spanish Town, on Wednesday, October 17.

The number includes Irwin High, who are returning after a two-year absence, and St James High, following their one-year hiatus.

The championships is expected to be dominated again by defending Under-16 champions Herbert Morrison Technical and strong contingents from Muschett and Rhodes Hall, while defending Under-19 champions Cornwall College are expected to get the stiffest challenge from Herbert Morrison, Holland High and Muschett.

Herbert Morrison ready

Last week Thursday, Herbert Morrison warmed up for the championships by winning a preseason KFC Under-16 one-day tournament at Montego Bay Cricket Club, a tournament which also featured four of the top five teams from the west.

These include Holland, Muschett, Herbert Morrison and Green Pond, who played each other in a round-robin format.

Muschett, who emerged undefeated from round-robin play, had the tables turned on them in the final by Herbert Morrison, who won 18-17 in overtime.

The teams which are registered to participate in the championships are Herbert Morrison, Cornwall College, William Knibb, Spot Valley, Rhodes Hall, Green Pond, Holland, St James High, Irwin High and Muschett.

All will vie for the U-19 and U-16 titles, except for Irwin, who will only take part in the U-19 category.