Greater Accra Basketball League Resumes in Honour of Late Player Michael Arhin

The 2026 Greater Accra Basketball League returned to the El-Wak Sports Stadium this week, resuming play after an enforced break triggered by the death of Coldstore player Michael Arhin, who suffered a fatal medical emergency during the competition on May 20.

Following consultations with stakeholders across the league, the decision was taken to restart the season in Arhin’s honour, with matches played across all divisions. Coldstore’s own fixtures, however, have been placed on hold until after Arhin’s final funeral rites, scheduled for June 27 — a mark of respect that speaks to the bonds within Ghana’s basketball community.

Division 1: Knights and Tusk Basketball Academy Dominate

The return to action produced several emphatic results in the top division. Knights dismantled Reformers 87-54, while Magic overcame the University of Ghana 52-39. In the most complete individual performance of the day, Abubakari Suleman led Tusk Basketball Academy to a 73-56 victory over Ghana Navy, posting 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks to earn Player of the Game honours.

In the All-Service clash, GRA edged out Ghana Air Force 65-62 in a tightly contested affair that highlighted the competitive balance among the security services’ teams.

Division 2 and Women’s Division Deliver Drama

The Men’s Division 2 produced its own share of intrigue. Burma Camp Kings survived a scare from Dunk Grassroots, prevailing 55-53, while Ghana Immigration posted the most convincing win of the division with an 83-60 dismantling of Tesano Youth. Titans also advanced their campaign with a 69-61 victory over Gbawe Basketball Academy.

In the Women’s Division, GRA delivered the most lopsided result of the day, thrashing Braves 88-16 in a display of dominance that left little doubt about the pecking order. Reformers cruised past Army 60-39, with Promise Ofori contributing 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals. Galaxy defeated Aces 52-40 in an all-civilian encounter, while Navy overcame Police 50-41.

A Community in Mourning and Resolve

The resumption of the league carries a bittersweet quality. Michael Arhin’s sudden passing at a competitive basketball event sent shockwaves through a sporting community that, while smaller than Ghana’s football establishment, is tightly knit and deeply passionate. The decision to honour his memory by continuing the competition — rather than cancelling the season — reflects a collective determination to celebrate the sport he loved.

The league’s organisers have also used the moment to raise awareness about player health and medical preparedness at sporting events, though specific measures have yet to be announced. For now, the focus remains on the basketball and on ensuring that Arhin’s legacy endures on the courts where he competed.

Image Source: GHANAIAN TIMES