The Siglakas-Jeddah South Area Intercolor Basketball Tournament Season 4 got under way recently at the Ahmed Kaki Sports Complex (Orca) basketball court. A parade of colors of 15 energetic teams, torch run by former tournament directors Gilbert Boragay and Loiue Sese and the symbolic lighting of the flame by Siglakas Chairman Norby Manapat highlighted the grand opening of the event. The Kahimig men’s choir rendered a solemn acapella. Also, intermission song and dance numbers were provided by Jeddah South Band, JS Kids, JS Cheering Group and all teams. Chief guest was Vice Consul Jim G. Minglana of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah. The first trophies to go up for grabs went to Baladia, Best in Uniform 40 Below; Purok 3; Best in Uniform 40 Above; Computer 2 Panda, Best Mascot; Shirley Esguerra and Daisy Bertis, Best Muse 40 Above; Saudia 2 Vikings, Unity Dance winner. Baladia team captain Ronald Palo led the oath of sportsmanship while Siglakas adviser Sonny Saberon declared the tournament open. Vice Consul Minglana made the ceremonal toss of the ball. Ten teams are entered in the regular category with five in the Inter-40. The officials running the show are: Earl Mañalac, tournament director; Bhoy Raras, head technical committee; Alex Aclan, overall coordinator and oversight committee; Saberon, Jun Mendoza and Noli Micua. The opening games determined by a drawing of lots saw Al Saigh Dragons clip Baladia Red Falcons 81-69 in the regular category, Thunder 40s beat Oldies goodies 46-33 in Inter-40, and Saudia 2 Vikings down Marriott Magic 44-42. Named Best Player of the week were: Game 1 Al Saigh Dragons’ Mark Louie Fuentes with 22 points, Game 2 Al Attas Thunder 40’s Allan Villanueva and Osias De Luna, and Game 3 Saudia-2 Vikings Jun Villegas. The Coach of the Night award went to Alex Aclan of Red Falcons. The organizers thanked the following for their support of the tournament: Sky Freight Forwarders, M. A. Abudawood for Industry, Giordano Fashions, Enjaz Banking Services and area officers. Arab news