Karnataka's No.1 U-18 Basketball Team: St. Mary’s Chikmagalur Makes History
“What does it take to become the No. 1 U-18 basketball team in Karnataka?
Skill? Yes.
Discipline? Definitely.
But above all — belief, mentorship, and a system that never stops backing its students.That’s the story of St. Mary’s International School, Undedasaralli, Chikmagalur, which has just been crowned Karnataka’s U-18 State Basketball Champion — a victory that has echoed across courts, classrooms, and communities.
The Battle That Made Headlines
Held at the legendary Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, the D.N. Rajanna Trophy brought together the top 80+ district teams from across Karnataka. Among them, the Chikmagalur District team, represented entirely by students of St. Mary’s, made its presence known — and eventually, unforgettable.
In a high-stakes final against the formidable DYES Bangalore, St. Mary’s boys went into halftime trailing by 8 points. But what followed was nothing short of inspirational.
With fire in their eyes and strategy in their game, they turned the match around — finishing with a remarkable 91–78 victory. Top scorers included:
- Nishanth – 30 points
- Chanakya – 20 points
- Rehan Khan – 18 points
🔁From Grit to Glory
The turnaround wasn’t accidental. It was the outcome of years of structured training and mentorship by Vishal Sir (PED & Coach) and Coach Ashwin, both of whom have long believed in letting talent speak louder than background.
Many players from this team come from scholarship backgrounds, receiving free education and accommodation — a policy that St. Mary’s continues to uphold in its mission to identify and nurture raw talent.
“Alongside our academic achievements in JEE, NEET, and board exams, we’ve consistently supported excellence in sports too. This win only reinforces what we believe: with the right support, every student can rise,” says Mr. Gerald Lobo, the respected Chairman of St. Mary’s International.
“If there are more such talented students out there, our doors are always open.”
🏅Beyond the Trophy
The team was awarded a ₹30,000 cash prize along with the championship trophy, presented by Dr. K. Govindaraj, President of FIBA Asia and the Karnataka Olympic Association.
But this was more than just a title — it was proof that a school from Chikmagalur can take on and defeat the biggest teams in Karnataka.
📸Watch the Moments
Feel the energy. Witness the moment. Share the pride.
A Culture of Belief
At St. Mary’s, this win isn’t an exception — it’s part of a tradition. Whether it’s placing students in top medical colleges, securing international scholarships, or dominating in sports, the school continues to set benchmarks.
Because here, every student matters. Every skill is supported. And every achievement is earned — with heart, hustle, and hope.
