Live!! Basketball (Boys) Final : BITS Pilani v/s LNIPE Gwalior

1950 hrs
AND IT’S ALL OVER!!!! LNIPE HAVE GOT THE BASKETBALL GOLD. Final score: 68-42 to LNIPE. Valiant effort by the BITSians but in the end , LNIPE were too good. Still, silver is a decent enough return. And with that, BOSM matches are over…
1948 hrs
Some wonderful skill from LNIPE…That would be counted as showing off in some places. They are pulling out of sight now. 68-42 to BITS and the errors have crept into the BITSians’ game.
1947 hrs
Schadenfreude is the best kind of pleasure it seems. Meanwhile, Antonio makes an awesome play. BITS trails 60-40.
1946 hrs
I think the fate of the match was decided the moment LNIPE successfully snuffed out Antonio’s playmaking threat. He has been absolutely ineffective in the second half. But that doesn’t take anything away from an awesome tournament he has had.
1945 hrs
CHAAR CHAWWANI THAALI MEIN!! DY PATIL NAALI MEIN!!! Some unresolved tension I see between the BITSian and the DY Patil camps.
1944 hrs
SABSE PYAARI LADKI KAUN?? KAARI KAARI… Is that another nickname for someone we know.
1943 hrs
The game now has the look of a done-and-dusted affair. LNIPE seems quite content to play it around and show off their skills. BITS seem tired. Score: 60-37 in LNIPE’s favour.
1942 hrs
Latest score: 58-37 to LNIPE. Surely, 21 points is too huge a margin for BITS to pull back.
1941 hrs
I think we can all agree that LNIPE have just too good a team. But credit to the BITSians. They have been awesome. Lathi sinks another two to make it 53-37. Is he the only one scoring?
1939 hrs
LNIPE is the first to 50. BITS trails 50-33. And there is a free throw coming up. No 4 from LNIPE sinks it. 51-33 to BITS. On the other side of the court, Lathi drives unopposed to the basket to score. 53-35 in LNIPE’s favour.
1938 hrs
Manav hits a two. 48-33 to LNIPE.
1937 hrs
All the outsti teams have united against BITS…Wonder how appreciation turns to bitterness in four days…Is it the fact that BITS has walked away with a handsome haul of medals on the back of brilliant performances by its sportspersons??
1934 hrs
Akshay has come on for Ankeet and not Manav. Score is 47-31 in LNIPE’s favour. LNIPE’s superior fitness and pace is taking a toll on the BITSians’ valiant performance. It’s going to take a miracle to get back from here. LNIPE no 12 sinks in one of his free throws to make it 48-31.
1933 hrs
Manav has now been replaced by Akshay. Lathi pulls two points back for BITS. 43-31 to LNIPE.
1932 hrs
Another two for LNIPE…They are blowing BITS away. 43-29 to LNIPE. Come on, it’s time for a timeout.
1930 hrs
The LNIPE defense has succeeded in completely snuffing out Antonio’s playmaking threat. Mowgli seems to have turned it on. Another two for him. LNIPE leads 41-29.
1929 hrs
Was that an alley hoop attempt? Meanwhile, the chants are getting quite nasty now.
1928 hrs
Mowgli sinks in a three right after the timeout. LNIPE leads 39-29. Can BITS overturn the double-digit lead?
1927 hrs
The crowd is regaining its earlier boisterousness as it bids to coax the last drops of efforts out of the BITSian team. As the teams go out for a timeout, the ref finally nails a jumper after four days’ worth of effort.
1926 hrs
Lathi with another two. BITS trails 36-29. Devdatta wants the LNIPE players to pass to him on the sideline.
1925 hrs
Mowgli makes it 36-25 for LNIPE now. Lathi makes it 36-27 though. He has scored at least fourteen till now.
1924 hrs
A quick break by LNIPE thwarted by BITS. But a three on the inbound play gives LNIPE a 34-25 lead. BITS needs to go on a roll now.
1923 hrs
Another gem from Crazy Fangirl, “This is my last BITSian game…I desperately want it to end with a win.”
Curly haired guy (earlier christened ‘Mowgli’) has been rechristened ‘Bandar’ now…Is that “The Jungle Book” coming to life?? No.4 Murgi Chor??? What are they talking about?
1921 hrs
Our sideline analyst says, “LNIPE are bigger, taller and they make sure the ball just goes into the basket every time they get possession.” Isn’t that the definition of a good basketball team? But BITS doesn’t yet seem too far behind.
1919 hrs
The whistle goes…Is it half-time already? Or is it just a timeout? Can’t figure out anything in the middle of the raucous chants and cheers of the crowd. It’s 31-25 to LNIPE now. Meanwhile, the crowd asks everyone to look at the coach. He doesn’t even look good…
1918 hrs
Curly hair has just been christened ‘Mowgli’ by the BITSian crowd. Boos and jeers try to put him off as he steps up to take two free throws. He misses both as the crowd shouts “INQUILAB ZINDABAD!!!” Meanwhile, four quick points give LNIPE a 29-23 lead. Seems like they are making their superior skill count. But the BITSian SHAQ, Lathi (PR Sriram to all those from Chennai) has other ideas. A SHAQ-like basket cuts the lead to four.
1917 hrs
Crazy fangirl M, is going even crazier…That’s what I call the epitome of sporting passion. Meanwhile Hemu looks spent as he lies on the court, while the teams discuss tactics on the sidelines during a timeout. The crowd is still as involved as they were at the start of the match. This is going to be brilliant!!!
1916 hrs
The elder statesman of the BITSian team sinks a three: Score is 25-23 to LNIPE.
1914 hrs
What trickery from LNIPE!!! Sometimes, you gotta just give up on your allegiances and admire the ability of an opposition player. DOPY is getting an earful from the crowd for using a flash everytime a BITSian player steps up to the free throw line.
1913 hrs
The ferocity of LNIPE’s passing is seriously scary. Wonder how many of them would make the national basketball team the way they are now playing…Their reorganized approach is giving all BITSian supporters the shivers. 23-19 to LNIPE.
1912 hrs
Some photog guy is the current villain as he just clicked Antonio with a flash while he was taking a free throw. Hemu answers the LNIPE challenge with a beautiful layup. 21-19 to LNIPE. But they sink one in from the rebound. 23-19 to LNIPE.
1911 hrs
Someone, let’s call her M, suddenly got too excited at the sight of LNIPE hassling the BITSian offence. Hema: “Now that, is a fangirl for you!!!”
Meanwhile, 19-17 to LNIPE.
1910 hrs
Ankit is like a rock in defense. The BITSian defense seems like a rock today in turn. 3 pointer by LNIPE makes the scores level at 17.
1908 hrs
LNIPE is turning on the heat now. Brilliant plays. Score: 17-14 to BITS.
1906 hrs
Nice passing move by LNIPE makes it 17-12. The match is developing nicely. No 10, Ankit seems slightly off his shooting game today. But he is picking up all the rebounds in defense. Meanwhile, brilliant defensive block by the LNIPE player, tapping the ball away just as Antonio was going to cap his full flight with a layup.
1904 hrs
Two threes taken by BITS till now. And another three-pointer gives BITS a 17-12 lead. The crowd says, “JEETEGA BHAI JEETEGA !!! BITS PILANI JEETEGA!!!” and “LAO RE LAO!! CURRY KO LAO!” Is that a codeword? Attempts at a Mexican wave follow. And another, much better one. In fact, the wave went all around the court. It seems like BITSians have left it to the last day to show the outstis what home support is! But what a support this is!!!
1902 hrs
I have never seen a more boisterous crowd at the basketball court in the three BOSMs I have seen. The team, the crowd are all united by a single purpose – the sight and feel of gold. A successful free throw by BITS makes the score 12-10. PR gives BITS a 4-point lead with one of his trademark drives to the basket. He has already scored 6 points already.
1900 hrs
Two free throws to BITS. Antonio steps up. Crazy fan girl says, “Now you know why I like him so much.” The drive earns him two free throws but he misses both. Meanwhile, BITS seems to be up for it from the start. Good steal by LNIPE. Two and a foul. 12-9 is the score in BITS’ favour.
1859 hrs
Nothing seems to be going in for LNIPE at the moment. A combination of brilliant defence and a hostile crowd against LNIPE is working in their favour. Meanwhile, a brilliant drive and basket by Lathi. Score: 12-7 to BITS.
1858 hrs
The pressure seems to be getting to LNIPE as they have begun missing shots they were making earlier. The vocal crowd seems to have got to them. Meanwhile, Hemu scores to give BITS a 10-6 lead. Brilliant assist by Antonio.
1856 hrs
Timeout. The BITSian boys have kept up and even bettered LNIPE efforts in the early running. Let’s hope this continues. Chants fill up the air. I wouldn’t want to be a LNIPE supporter today at the Basketball court. It must be intimidating for their players.
1854 hrs
LNIPE won the girls’ basketball gold, so the guys are trying to make it a double. A players from LNIPE just got a warning from the ref for excessive dissent. LNIPE seems to be the better team just at the moment but BITSians are playing with passion and have a very boisterous home crowd acting as the sixth man. Manav scores and the crowd goes into a frenzy. The three makes it 8-6 to BITS.
1852 hrs
LNIPE v/s BITS, the Basketball match is on. The stands are packed to the rafters and the atmosphere is even more electrifying than last time. Current score: 6-5. LNIPE leads.

Boys Basketball FINALS

1949hrs

The last match of BOSM 2008 is over! LNIPE have won the gold in basketball and BITS will have to make do with a silver. But a hard earned silver it has been. Crowds have emptied the basketball stands partially.

Now it is over to the closing ceremony scheduled to start in a few minutes from now. We will cover it for you here at the BEP blog. This fest which started with over 900 participants from all over the country is all set to close soon.

1947hrs

Rapid baskets from both sides...The score is now 66-42! They are scoring baskets like crazy. LNIPE scores again and the score is 68-42.

1945 hrs

The match is going to end very soon...last minute cheer for BITS supporters. Lathi blocks (brilliantly) and passes to Antonio and Antonio scores!

1943hrs

The score is now 60-37...and BITS misses an easy lay up.

1940hrs

Well...BITS scores and crowd is glad to have a reason to cheer, 53-37 to LNIPE...LNIPE scores...55-37 . The fact that LNIPE is an institute of physical education and BITS a t-school is clearly showing...Number 9 of LNIPE team is really fast. BITS team can only look on.

1938hrs

Finally a basket from BITS, the score is 50-33...LNIPE scores twice in 20 seconds...53-33.

1935hrs

Fourth quarter is progressing and time is running out for BITS to come back. Some people are beginning to leave in the hope of getting to ANC or Domino's stall before the crowd gets there.

1933 hrs

Fourth quarter is starting. Why is there a look of resignation on BITS supporters' face? It is almost as if they are ready to accept the result as it is. But the team is still spirited and playing along. But clearly not enought to check LNIPE's lead.

1931hrs

Finally cheer for BITS supporters as the team scores a basket after long. The score now stands at 43-31. We are in the third quarter.

1929hrs

LNIPE passing is very good. BITS team is having problem checking it.

1927hrs

Another timeout...chants in support of LNIPE aare getting louder. Home crowd waiting for reasons to cheer. And I still can't see much beyond the backs of a human mass..LNIPE scores a three pointer...BITS under tremendous pressure here.

1925 hrs

Really fast play happening...both temas score once each to take the score to 36-37.

1923hrs

Crazy fangirl and the sideline analyst is lost somewhere in the crowd. But chants from the outstation participants are getting louder as LNIPE leads 34-25.

1920hrs

Half time up! Crowds are chanting almost every slogan you have ever heard of. LNIPE is practicing their shots during the half time...BITS takes to doing the same. Psychology games have to be won as well.

1918hrs

The score right now is 29-23. A real good match happening here. The crowd is reacting to every move on the court.

1915hrs
A sea of humans have blocked my view totally of the basketball court. Pawas is doing his best to add a few extra inches to his height and get us an update and here he is - second quarter going on and a timeout was called.

1913 hrs
We are back live! This is absolute madness...sports frenzy at its maximum. There is no way anyone can fit in another human being anyplace in direct view of the basketball court.
Nice backpass from Antonio...BITS scores.
Score is 25-21 to LNIPE.

1907 hrs
Current score : 17-14 in favour of BITS...
BITS is putting on quite quite a show today.

Boys basketball final starts in gym g!

We are still not totally live. But the time delay is down to 15 minutes.

The boys basketball final between BITS, Pilani and LNIPE has started a short while ago in Gym Grounds. The atmosphere is electrifying and there is absolutely no space around the basketball court. The enthusiasm is at its maximum here.

The score right now is 6-5 to LNIPE. Keep reading as we can expect a very close, high quality final clash here.

Third place play off: Girls Basketball

The third place play off in girls basketball has started at gym groounds sometime back. The third quarter is going on now and KNC is leading BITS, Pilani 8-5. There seems to be low enthusiasm about this match both in players and the spectators.

Live Basketball (Boys) BITS Pilani v/s Zakir Hussain

FINAL SCORE: BITS DEFEATS ZAKIR HUSSAIN 56-48.
My man of the match is Lathi. Hema says Antonio. Let us know what you think about our choices...
Now the match will begin between LNIPE and DY Patil. DY Patil were promised vocal support by Zakir Hussain, but it remains to be seen whether the Zakir supporters live up to the promise after their loss. Anyway, I'm off now to ANC, to mingle with the competitors and hopefully eat something. Will be back to live blogging soon enough...Keep reading, and keep sending in the feedback.
2115 hrs
The Zakir Hussain coach has finally calmed down it seems. BITS' no 10 is on the free throw line. And the final whistle goes!!!! BITS wins!!! The crowd goes home happy and every one collides into every one else as they make their way on to the court.
2113 hrs
BITS are trying to run down the clock now with their lead of 12. Nice fake and reverse pass by blue shorts to the new guy cuts BITS' lead to 10. And then there is another one of those. BITS leads 56-48.
2112 hrs
Blue Shorts is trying to win the match on his own. But BITS are currently on a roll. Antonio is controlling the game at the moment and BITS leads 56-44.
2110 hrs
I refuse to comment on the scorekeepers' ineptitude any more. Meanwhile Antonio nails an easy layup (for a player of his ability) and BITS leads 52-42. Meanwhile, another superb drive to the basket which yields two more points. BITS leads 54-42.
2108 hrs
A nice drive to the basket by the new guy who just came on for Zakir Hussain. Score: 48-42 to BITS. And a blocking foul to BITS. 50-42 now to BITS as Lathi scores. Surely he has scored at least twenty today.
2107 hrs
Antonio makes one of two free throw attempts. 48-40 to BITS.
2105 hrs
Big rebound by Lathi!!! And that is followed by two quick baskets and some brilliant defensive play. 47-38 to BITS. They are showing their quality now.
2004 hrs
BITS leads 43-36. The Zakir Hussain support has gone strangely quiet while the BITS supporters shout on. Guess this is what you call home support!!!!

Picture Live

Live Basketball (Boys) BITS Pilani v/s Zakir Hussain

2059 hrs
Antonio makes 2/2 free throws to give BITS a 43-36 lead. Doesn't seem like there is long to go. But this is brilliant! A basketball match of the highest order...with both sets of players going all out to win...and the crowd acting the sixth man to push them over the line...And remember, BEP is covering this all live, exclusively on this blog :)
(Feel like one of those journalists who shout out BREAKING NEWS at every possible household quarrel that comes to the fore)
2058 hrs
Wonder how much time is left on the clock. 41-36 to BITS. Another round of racuous cheering by the crowd.
2056 hrs
Latest score: BITS leads Zakir Hussain by 39-35. A nail-biting finish on the cards. Meanwhile, both Hema and Neeti gush over Antonio's stamina and fitness. And he responds by scoring a brilliant layup. 41-35 to BITS.
2055 hrs
Lathi drives to the basket and is fouled in the play immediately after Zakir break BITS' 11-0 scoring run with a three. Score: 39-33 to BITS.
2053 hrs
Blue Shorts seems to be tired and he seems to be the heart and soul of the Zakir team. Even though he proves that assessment wrong with his drive to the basket, the ref blows his whistle for an infringement.
2052 hrs
Mexican wave in the stands...And what cheer...This is awesome. It's made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.
2050 hrs
Insanity in the stands as Manav nails a three. BITS leads 37-30. They have come flying out of the blocks after half-time. And two more now. 39-30 to BITS. We're on a roll...surely that is enough to break Zakir's spirit and heart.
2048 hrs
And Lathi comes up with a brilliant block. Yeah, he IS our SHAQ...And another two for BITS...They lead 34-30.
2046 hrs
BITS scores...score is level at 28-28. The atmosphere in the crowds has reached new heights of rivalry. The EPC Sec is now gathering support for BITS, Pilani. Latest score 30-28 to BITS. Newest chant - "Neeli Chaddi waale" Meanwhile Zakir score to even the scores up.
2044 hrs
Bong Uncle: Gem of a chant from yesterday, "DY Patil ki yeh pehchaan, peeli chaddi peeli banyan." Well, the current chants beat that by a mile, but then I can't really write that on a family-friendly blog. Meanwhile, Sriram (Lathi) scres the first points of the 2nd half to give BITS a 27-26 lead. The atmosphere is so electric that I feel I am inside Old Trafford on a European night.
2043 hrs
The chants are rapidly becoming personal. Will we see something more serious breaking out?
Meanwhile Hema says, "We need cheerleaders for this game. That would just take all this support thingy to a whole new level."
2042 hrs
The chants continue even during half time. Some players from Zakir Hussain are lying on the court. Seems like they are dead with exhaustion.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere is electric. MAMA is back and the enthued cheers started by HDC have just got another set of supporters to back their chants.
2041 hrs
Chants are alternating between "DELHI KA DON KAUN?" and "Delhi ka chor kaun?" Manav is keeping BITS going though. Zakir leads 26-25 at halftime.
2039 hrs
Apparently the just concluded deal included the rider that Zakir would cheer for DY in return. Wonder what will happen if the two teams face off against each other. Meanwhile, it's 26-23 to Zakir Hussain.
2038 hrs
An unwritten MoU has just been signed before our eyes between D Y Patil and Zakir Hussain. They are going to cheer for Zakir Hussain. Heard of match fixing but we haven't heard of supporter fixing. At last, the crowd is alive and kicking!!!!
2036 hrs
Blue shorts is turning it on now...24-21 to Zakir Hussain

Live Photo!!!

Live Basketball (Boys) BITS Pilani v/s Zakir Hussain

2033 hrs

It's HDC's turn to cheer now. They are furious with the opposing camp's chants. Seems like they are saying, "No one can shout louder in BITS than us." Meanwhile, it's 22-21 to BITS and a free throw is coming up.

2031 hrs

HDC has taken up the cheering mantle now. There is dance and there are chants as Manav sinks a two to give BITS a 17-16 lead. But Zakir Hussain come right back with two points of their own.

2030 hrs

Nice drive to the basket by Lathi. He scores!!! 16-15 to Zakir Hussain.

2028 hrs

Zakir Hussain seem to have overcome their shooting inability. They are in firm control of the game now. BITS is still struggling to get going.

2025 hrs

And Zakir Hussain promptly proves our analyst wrong by sinking a fifteen yard jump shot. And why is Antonio shooting from so far? Is he scared to get to the sidelines?

Score: Zakir Hussain leads 14-13. And their coach is still gesticulating wildly.

Meanwhile, a brilliant reverse layup by Zakir Hussain. They lead 16-13.

2025 hrs

Our sideline analyst, "Zakir Hussain seems to be good at taking the ball to the basket but they aren't shooting well enough today. Meanwhile, BITS has been taking too many jump shots from the perimeter. They need to drive to the basket some more. Get it to Lathi dude!!!"

2023 hrs

The scorers have done it again...They seem to have trouble in counting...Score: 13-12 to BITS...Hope that is correct though...

2022 hrs

The referee doesn't seem in shape. He missed an easy layup.

2020 hrs

I have now started to blog more about the sport, and less about BEP...Hope that change is welcome for all of you...Score-13-13

2018 hrs

Harsha: "Our sideline analyst resembles a Pokemon"

Timeout...13-10 to BITS...that's the score.

2017 hrs

Lathi is our Shaq...only 200 pounds lighter. Brilliant play to score two. Score: 13-10 to BITS.

Hema: "I can't hear myself with all the background noise made by the supporters." Well, I can't hear you either!

2015 hrs

It seems like BEP is caught in the middle of the crossfire between the two sets of supporters. Indecent gestures are seen. Hope we don't get assaulted on anything. Score: 11-8 to BITS.

2013 hrs

And now it's not just the teams which are doing battle. The two sets of supporters seem to be competing for the cheering honours as well. Score: 8-6 to BITS.

P.S. Seems like the Zakir Hussain coach needs to take a break. His rants are useless as his players aren't even looking at him.

2011 hrs

Intense concentration and then, psssshhhh...Did you see his eyes? There was nothing in there except the trajectory of the ball, the shot and the whoosh...Our sideline analyst's immortal words

Two quick points by BITS after the senior citizen of the team, Manav pulls them level with a long range jumper...Score: 6-4 to BITS. And another basket by BITS...8-4, BITS leads.

2010 hrs

Trouble in paradise? A player from Zakir Hussain yells at one of his teammates.

2010 hrs

"Ref do something!!!" Seems like Hema just lip-read the Zakir Hussain coach's words as he rants and gesticulates on the sidelines.

2009 hrs

Brilliant coordination by the Zakir Hussain players. They lead 4-2.

2008 hrs

Score Update: 2-2.

2006 hrs

P R Sriram aka Lathi just scored the first points of the match. He says he likes the blog but it would be better if we referred to him by Sriram instead of Lathi, so that his folks back home can follow his performance. Sadly mate, most of the BITSian crowd wouldn't understand if we used Sriram...So for all you folks back in Chennai, Lathi = Sriram.

2005 hrs

And the match is about to start...Finally we can turn our attention to the basketball instead of the general vetty comments make by BEP members.

2004 hrs

Harsha, who has also taken up the mantle of "OFFICIAL BLOG STATS ANALYZER" says - "Our fifth highest city wise hits are from Chicago, Illinois...Are you reading the blog, Senator Obama?"

2002 hrs

News from the Informalz booth: Pawas wins Scrabble...It is official. We are not joking!!! Okay, let me put it this way, "WE ARE NOT JOKING!!!!" Pawas IS the scrabble champion. Somebody is going to spend a lot of money treating people today.

2000 hrs

Pawas: "Is it not about basketball any more?" Good question, dude...How about you people out there comment on that. A debate about who is gushing over who breaks to my left...We'll announce the winners soon enough as Neeti takes on Hema...Meanwhile, the warmup continues.

1958 hrs
The teams are warming up. Shouts of "Go Hema" go up in the air every time a certain member of the BITSian team comes up to take his warmup layups.

Basketball Girls

And with that loss, BITS is officially out of the girls' basketball competition.
Meanwhile, the BITS boys' team takes court to racous applause from the crowd. Their warmup seems to be more like a show of strength.
Hema: "Now they are huddling around the basketball like those crazy aliens from ET"
If I remember correctly, the aliens in ET were the nice guys...the humans were the crooked ones.

Live Basketball(Girls) : BITS Pilani v/s SRCC

1952 hrs
End of the match...BITS loses 20-25 to SRCC...I hope I don't pick any more favourites today...Doesn't seem to be the day for my favourite teams.
1950 hrs
Anubha scores two...BITS trails 20-25. Shouts of "Kaisa Laga Accha Laga!" shouts fill the air.
1948 hrs
Almost done it seems...BITS on the verge of losing...Come on,
1947 hrs
I am feeling pretty low right now...There doesn't seem to be much fight left in BITS.
1945 hrs
Sad jokes seem to be the order of the day. Anubha misses her first free throw and now for the second...she misses that too, first to the left and then to the right...Sounds like the Ronaldo chant, doesn't it? Score: 23-18 to SRCC.
1943 hrs
The giant COSSACAN of PCr, Kamal, chooses this very moment to make his entry on to the court. I guess with all the outstis here already, his work for this fest is pretty much taken care of. Meanwhile, all the hype associated with Nupur's free throw comes to naught. She fails to convert the free throw and as earlier, BITS don't get the rebound.
1941 hrs
The timeout worked for SRCC it seems...Seems like BITS got too charged up and forgot to continue with the cool calculated play they displayed while cutting back SRCC's lead earlier. Still 21-16 to SRCC...BITS are really missing out on the boards...No one is rebounding. Richa needs to be substituted. And that was 2 by Nupur plus she draws the foul.
1939 hrs
Richa seems to be struggling with the tempo and the physical nature of the game...Maybe a substitution is needed...No 12 from SRCC takes a rebound and SRCC scores...21-16 to SRCC (The scorers got it right this time)
1938 hrs
A three by SRCC...19-16 to SRCC...Meanwhile things are hotting up in the crowd...BITS is equally charged up, it seems...
1936 hrs
The scorers seem to be interpreting the points scored in their own way. Yet again, the referee makes them reduce a point. 16-16 now...Looks like the scorers have a 3-point obsession.
1934 hrs
The SRCC ball movement is really ravaging the BITSians' attempts at maintaining their defensive shape. Varsha seems to be the only one standing in their way as they try to overturn the lead. Anubha with two baskets now...finally BITS is fighting back 16-14 to BITS and they have the possession. And 17-16 for BITS now as Nupur scores a 3...The crowd is up, cheering and on their feet...DEKHO RE DEKHO SCORE TOH DEKHO!!!! And a timeout as SRCC try to figure out what just happened.
1932 hrs
The tussle between Varsha and Bulbul is hotting up...assuming really titanic proportions that one...Wonder who will say "That ball is mine!!!" at the end of the match. SRCC has the upper hand at the moment. 16-10 to SRCC
1931 hrs
I swear it was 14-8 a while ago...Now it is 14-7..Deja vu...
1929 hrs
The game seems to be heating up now. The teams trade baskets. 2 points to each. Score: 14-8 to SRCC. The girls from Delhi don't seem too willing to let their lead slip. Am I going to see the team I want to see on the winning side losing for the second time in one hour? By the way, the first team I am talking about were Manchester United and they lost 2-1 to Liverpool. :-( Damn scousers!!!
1928 hrs
The BITS defense went strolling about like a nightstroll in Shivganga...But this is the wrong place to do it...Neat passing move by SRCC...Score: 12-6 to SRCC
1927 hrs
Well BITS scores now...The score is 10-6...
1925 hrs
Seems like BITS is still playing as if they are up against LNIPE. Please wake up!!!! Well, that call was for BITS, not for SRCC...They score...Score: 10-3 to SRCC

Basketball(Girls) : BITS v/s LNIPE Gwalior

2052 hrs
GAME OVER!!! LNIPE beats BITS 34-10. Definitely not the result the crowd wanted. Meanwhile, I will just be off for a break...Domino's calls...and my stomach answers...
2051 hrs
Seems like LNIPE is now practicing shooting from the half-line...in the match...Full marks to the BITSian girls for efforts, but sadly they are not proving to be enough.
2050 hrs
Another altercation between two LNIPE players. Seems like team spirit might be a grave issue in the face of stronger opponents...Another timeout...Another huddle by the BITSian girls...with an animated pep talk being delivered by the coach. Still 34-10 to BITS.
2047 hrs
Meanwhile, the crowd is requesting that the BITS girls do a sliding tackle on their opponents. Still 33-10.
2046 hrs
One nice jump shot each by both teams. 33-10 to LNIPE.
2045 hrs
A change in our company...By the way, it's another timeout...
2044 hrs
LNIPE gets to 30 first...Doesn't look like BITS is going to catch up... 30-8 is the latest score.
2043 hrs
Update from the Volleyball arena...SIES is about to give walkover to BITS...De ja vu any one??
2040 hrs
An altercation between two members of the LNIPE team regarding a misplaced pass. And then they go miss an easy layup. Nice jumper on the rebound though. BITS seems to have no idea how to encounter their speed and movement.
BITS finally scores after a long while. Varsha the scorer. And another one by Richa. Latest score: 26-6 to LNIPE.
2038 hrs
Seems like we can install LNIPE as one of the favourites for the gold. Meanwhile, all hallmarks of a catfight are suddenly visible...sadly, the referee intervenes and the fight is off.
Score: 24-2 to LNIPE.
Weather Update: 37 degrees was the maximum temperature in Pilani today, according to Yahoo! weather report.
2033 hrs
LNIPE is looking like they have become a bit complacent. Missed an easy layup. Half-time: Score is still 22-2. The crowd is still going though, seems like they are expecting a miracle or they just like basketball too much. Good play by LNIPE till now.
Meanwhile, the coach looks like he is giving the BITSian team the hairdryer treatment. Go Fergie followers!!!
LNIPE is not even remotely tired and their reserves are coolly practicing their shooting. Is it some kind of powerplay and show of strength? Meanwhile, BITS' girls are still in a huddle with the coach, looking tired. Psychological powerplay or what?? Full points for the mind games to LNIPE.
2032 hrs
Our on-court specialist says, "Speed seems to be issue with the BITS team..." Score: 22-2 to LNIPE.
2030 hrs
We are now officially inviting votes for Hema's nickname: Shall it be CFG or do we go for MRF?
This discussion is better than the match, it seems...After all, LNIPE is walking away with the match, despite all the efforts of the BITSian team to the contrary.
2029 hrs
And Harsha got us an ice-cream...You rock mate!!!
2028 hrs
"You better write what I say when I say it...This is my don't mess with me face," says Hema. Rohit has suddenly realized that he is sitting next to a very dangerous person.
Meanwhile, BITS finally scores. 16-2 to LNIPE.
2025 hrs
Timeout...17-0 to LNIPE...Meanwhile the score has suddenly and mysteriously gone to 16-0 to LNIPE...Seems like the scorers are helping BITS...or was it that they were assisting LNIPE in the first place?
2024 hrs
I am going to start taking bets now on when BITS will score...17-0 to LNIPE...Is that one-sided or is there still scope for BITS to launch a comeback? Surely, it is time for the home crowd to enact the role of the 6th (wo)man...
2022 hrs
BITS can't score at the moment...13-0 to LNIPE. The tension is just too visible on every BITS players' face.
2020 hrs
Afraid we are a little late for the match...BITS is getting humped here...10-0 to LNIPE.

Post Match Reaction :Boys Basketball

We caught up with Manav, a fourth-yearite from the BITS Team. Here is what he had to say, "We didn't really click in the beginning, but later on, we pulled through and got the momentum with us...It's nice to win and next time, I am sure we will be able to click right from the start next match."

P.S. The volleyball match between BITS and SIES is going to happen. SIES turned up in the last moment, sensationally averting the walkover.

Live Match Pic

Live!!! Basketball BITS Pilani v/s PEC

2003 hrs

GAME OVER!!! BITS WINS 46-32!!!! And the crowd go home happy...But a good performance from the PEC guys as well.

Meanwhile, Harsha says, "Home is where the pizza is!"

2002 hrs

DEKHO RE DEKHO!!! SCORES KO DEKHO!!! To which I say, "Dekha Dekha!!!" 46-32 to BITS.

2000 hrs

As the clock chimes 8 pm...BITS leads 44-32...Kids chant, "KAALE WAALE HAARENGE!!!" Adults chant, "KABADDI KABADDI!!!"

1958 hrs

BITS walking away with it now. Finally PEC score. 42-28 to BITS. Meanwhile, crazy fanboy says, "Anto is GOD!!!"

1956 hrs

"That was so cool. He just did what he had to do. Calm, cool..stood there...no expressions...just shot and scored" - Crazy fangirl about Antonio.

1953 hrs

The game sees to have slowed down...BITS has gone off into the distance with regards to the score.

Meanwhile Rohit comes in with the news that the Volleyball match is ended with BITS getting a walkover. The other team was SIES. If all of you can find them, please send them to Gym-G.

Meanwhile, Hema to the PEC guys, "The ball doesn't like them. Brilliant approach play, brilliant run, brilliant final passes...but it simply won't go in."

1951 hrs

Hema is gushing over Antonio's steal...Have to admit myself that the steal was awesome though the move in total didn't pay off. Live score: 38-24 to BITS. Timeout.

Crowd: "LAO RE LAO..." Can anyone fill in the blanks?

1949 hrs

Disagreement in the BEP area!!! Is the person standing on the sidelines a coach or a player? Live Score: 36-22 hrs...

Meanwhile, BITS cheerleaders to PEC, "DAALO DAALO KUCCH TOH DAALO...IDHAR NAHI JAATA TOH UDHAR DAALO."

1948 hrs

Lathi is the new crowd favourite. By the way, Lathi is a nickname...Real name: P R Shriram. 34-20 to BITS meanwhile.

1947 hrs

The largest amount of enthu is still coming from the kids banging their bottles against the benches. More enthu needed desperately!!! Score: 31-20 to BITS.

1946 hrs

Harsha, the BEP Ed, "We look like a proper press booth man...With a cam and all."
1944 hrs

Defending from the forward line...That seems to be the BITSian strategy...27-19 is the latest score...Antonio with a 3.

1943 hrs

Quick start for BITS after the restart. 24-19 to BITS...Any bets on the final score???

1940 hrs

Half time now. 20-17 to BITS. And the referee isn't too smooth with his skills...Missed a simple jumper after the whistle went. Meanwhile, the Volleyball match starts at 8.15 pm...Will cover that as well.

1938 hrs

Pawas, our man, is here...All the photos on our blog are courtesy him and our friends at the Photog club. Meanwhile, 2 more points added to the BITS score. 20-17 to BITS. Still the first half.

1937 hrs

Nice pass by Antonio to Lathi. BITS regains the lead...18-17 to BITS.

1936 hrs

The BITSians shooting radar is off today. Saahas, a 10-year old but 6 yrs by size says, "JEETEGA BHAI JEETEGA!!! BITS PILANI JEETEGA!!!" Way to go mate!!!

1935 hrs

I think it's BEP's turn to take the lead in cheering now...Everyone else seems tired...Maybe that is why we should all have holidays during BOSM...Better energy among the crowd. 17-16 to PEC.

1934 hrs

It's almost eerily silent here...Is everyone ruminating after having food?? Timeout...and score is 16-16.

1933 hrs

The crowd around me has at least 6 basketball coaches delivering sideline coaching tips...Do they seriously think the BITSians can hear them on court. Meanswhile, PR (Lathi) scores with a powering drive to the basket. PEC quickly responds with a reverse layup f their own. Latest score: 16-16.

1932 hrs

Somehow the retaliatory chants of "PEC!!PEC!!" from the PEC contingent can't compare to BITSian enthu. Sheer numbers and quality - deadly cheering combination. Score:14-12 to PEC..Breakaway...2 points...Scores level at 14.

1931 hrs

"Ek do, Ek do!! PEC ko phek do!!!" Need I say more??

1928 hrs

Antonio seems to be the Kobe Bryant of this team. Proper point guard stuff, as the breakaway yields two points from a brilliantly taken layup. Score: 14-8 to BITS. The crowd is now really into it.

1925 hrs

PEC seem to have got the idea that taking the direct long ball route is the way to go. Not working though...No wonder BITS began extending their lead after this strategy came to the fore.

And Maharashtra Mandal is here...in blue and black...at last hope for the cheerleading tribes.

1924 hrs

At the time of the first timeout(that rhymes, doesn't it?) 12-6 to BITS.

1923 hrs

Soumya - "Where is MAMA tonight?" Waiting for someone???

1921 hrs

The crowd is really off its usual vigorous cheering today. Though PR's basket has them off their seats and cheering "JEETEGA BHAI JEETAGA!!! BITS PILANI JEETEGA!!" Score: 10-6 to BITS...No make that 12-6.BITS on the move...

1919 hrs

Foul by PEC. A free throw to go along with the two points despite the foul. However, the throw is missed. Score: 8-6 to BITS. It seems to be a very even match, with both teams showing attacking and defensive abilities in equal measure. Brilliant drive to the basket by the PR although he is fouled.

1917 hrs

Cool moves by the BITS players...All those days of practicing together are paying off it seems. The slick passing moves are having the crowd on their feet, though the shooting seems to be a little off. Score: 6-6.

1916 hrs

The early cheers from the PEC crowd has got the BITS crowd started as well. Interesting rivalry between the two sets of cheerleaders. Though I must admit that the PEC guys aren't doing badly cheering their team, despite smaller numbers. Score: 6-4 to BITS

1914 hrs

And the match has begun...Manav sinks the first points for BITS...Current score 4-4...Enough to get the crowd started...

BITS Girls Beat GITS in Basketball !!!

2023 hrs
The game seems to have evened out now...Still 21-14. And there goes the final whistle. BITS wins 21-14.

2022 hrs
Still typing offline...Still 21-14...Meanwhile Photog is doing a brilliant job of capturing the scene. Tripod
and cameras make them look like professionals. And looking at their pics, you wouldn't disagree either.

2019 hrs
Anubha finally breaks the GITS scoring run. 21-14 to BITS. Meanwhile, the latest in the long series of MAMA buckets has breathed its last. Also, poor CEL first yearites are also doing scoring alongwith BOSM controlz for their SLAM DUNK event. So please play the game to make their efforts worthwhile.

2017 hrs
The technical glitch is still there...I am typing offline as I speak...or type...The bandanna is not red or orange...It is pink...That's Harsha's observation. Meanwhile, BITS leads 19-14. Some semblance of a fightback from GITS.

2010 hrs
We're back after that huge technical glitch. BITS has started off the second half well. 15-6 to BITS. Meanwhile, Soumya asks "Does anyone know the outsti with the red bandanna"? Udit says "It's an orange bandanna!"

Meanwhile, news has just come in that BITS Boys have won their volleyball match. And at a timeout, the MAMA train goes once around the court.

Latest update : BITS leads the match against GITS 19-10.

1958 hrs
And after all the missed free throws, finally Varsha sinks one in. 9-3 to BITS. We are onto odd numbers now...Another cool shot from No. 10, Nupur. Latest: 11-3 to BITS.

1957 hrs
And Richa and Varsha have a mix up and give the ball away to GITS. They fail to capitalize though...

1956 hrs
Some comments about the last match:

"SRCC played well. The match wasn't interesting!! It was pre-decided. 26-8 for God's sake!!!" (Somebody needs to get the scores right)

Some MEite, "Was a very good match, SRCC passed well." (Well, they outshot and outscored the opponents as well"Meanwhile 8-3 to BITS.

1954 hrs
Too many timeouts already. It's a jittery sort of match till now. But hey, BITS is leading...No complaints there!!!

1952 hrs
And now HDC gets into the act. "DAALO RE DAALO KOI TOH DAALO"
And Varsha seems to have heard it!! 6-0 to BITS.

1950 hrs
And finally the DOPY-MAMA cheering rivalry makes an appearance. DOPY has the numbers though and many more kids on their side. Score: BITS leads 4-0. I swear it was 5-0 some time ago. Meanwhile, a pizza makes its way across the sidelines.

1946 hrs
The crowd is relatively quiet again. It seems that teams are more defensively oriented this time, making points a more precious and rare commodity than they already are.

1944 hrs

How do you pronounce "Chrrrrrrrrrakkkaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrr
Chrrrrrrrrrakkkaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrr" and what does that mean? The hoo-haas are understandable though. But that's what the crowd does as Anubha gives BITS a 4-0 lead.

1942 hrs
And there goes Vivek Krishnan, asking the referee to shoot a three pointer. It looks like he is going to oblige but sadly doesn't.

1939 hrs
The jerseys are really clashing. Nobody from the crowd knows who is in possession of the ball. The only indication of the teams is the side they are aiming for. Early score: BITS leads 2-0

1936 hrs
The updates are going to come thick and fast now. The teams have taken court and are waltzing their way through the warmup routines. The whistle goes and now, the match shall begin. But all is not well as the tipoff has to be taken again.

GIRLS BASKETBALL MATCH (SRCC v/s MITS)

Update 3.0 @ 7:27pm
And SRCC wins. Score was 22-6 to them.

Schedule Update: Meanwhile, the BITS girls take court to huge cheers. Some cheers reserved for the opposition too. The uniforms are badly clashing though. Both black. Wonder why they can't have home and away jerseys.


update 2.0 @ 7:08 pm
SRCC still leading, but it seems like MITS is trying to fight back.... Score's 7-5 still in SRCC's favour... and SRCC has scored again! Score's now 9-5. MITS trying to make a comeback with a fe long shots... but not always successful.

Foul in SRCCs favour, they've made use of it.... And Scored!


Basket-Ball match @7:02 pm
The refree throws the ball in the air, and the game is ON..... It's a basky match between SRCC and MITS girls. The stands look full, and cheers and applauds can be heard. After a dull few minutes, the game has picked up speed.... SRCC seems to have gotten an early lead... the score is 7-2 in favour of SRCC.

LIVE - Inaugural Match : The Entire Commentary

2005 hrs

And the match is over...BITS Pilani has won 18-8. Brilliant performance by the BITS Baski boys.

Stands are now gradually emptying. The Chief Guest too has just left, while the basketball court has been hijacked by random people who were inspired by the match and now want to play.

Meanwhile, great news for all of you who are in Pilani tomorrow. We just received confirmation from Mr G.K.Pillai, the Chairman cum Managing Director of Heavy Engineering Corporation, BITS alumnus of 1968 batch. He is on his way to Pilani and will be participating in the Panel Discussion tomorrow at 5 pm on Basketball court. The topic is "Revitalizing Sports in India - Campus Involvement and Policy Changes".

More on the panel discussion a little later.

Meanwhile, as the lights dim upon the basketball court, the centre of attention now is the Domino's stall. So, we will have a small break in the BEP updates. Keep reading.

P.S. For those who are wondering, it's 120 bucks a pizza.

P.P.S. Request from BITS Powerlifting team: "It's going to be one of the most impressive events this BOSM. It is at 6.30 pm tomorrow (11th September) at SAC Amphitheatre."

A First Yearite: "I have no clue what to do next. I am zonked and confused."

1952 hrs

Finally the first points of the second quarter. BITS Pilani leading 12-6.


1950 hrs

No points scored in the second half yet. The teams seem strangely afraid of attacking each other.


1949 hrs
DOPY seems to be half asleep, though it hasn't stopped one of them from coming and asking us for our snaps. And we, always glad to look like proper journalists, are only so happy to oblige.

Meanwhile, the second half has started.


1946 hrs
BITS finally manages to halt the 6-0 scoring run of Indraprastha. The match is still a bit jittery at the moment. And there the whistle and the team make their way to the sidelines at the end of the first half

Current score: BITS Pilani leading 10-6.

Meanwhile, the guys from IPS Academy, Indore, who arrived just an hour ago and are at BITS for the first time, say, "The fest has been glamorized very well. And it's like a open national tournament."


1942 hrs

Where is DOPY? Their usual cheer isn't cheerful enough. Seems like the lack of competition has put them off. The BITS team though is doing slightly better...in fact much better. As I type this, Indraprastha seems to be fighting back. Commentator's jinx maybe??

Score: BITS leading 8-6.


1940 hrs

And the whistle has gone, and the match has started. There seems to be quite some confusion regarding the jerseys won by both teams. Both are in red vests and black shorts. Though the BITS team has quite a bit of black on their vests. The audience already seems to be into the game. And as BITS begins the scoring with two points, a huge cheer goes up from the crowd. Both teams seem to have started well defensively. Lots of rebounds and steals going through. But it seems that the BITS team is starting to turn it on offensively as they establish an early lead.

Current score: 8-2 BITS Pilani is leading.

1935 hrs

The teams are now greeting the Vice-Chancellor of BITS Prof L.K. Maheshwari. Surely, words of encouragement being said there.


1932 hrs

The great cheerleading rivalry between DOPY and Maharashtra Mandal (MAMA) hasn't come to the fore yet, although there are many DOPY members visible, doing their usual bit - taking snaps and generally getting in the way of people. MAMA seems to have given up on their claim though, the members don't seem visible as a group.

And with that the whistle has gone. The warm-up time is over. As the teams go into a huddle, the audience waits with bated breath for the action to start.

1927 hrs

BOSM is kicking off with an inaugural friendly Basketball match BITS Pilani boys and Indraprastha College, Delhi. Like every year, with basketball usually being the most watched sport, the stands are full. As the teams run on to the court and start warming up, they are greeted by huge cheers from the stands - people who just can't wait for the action to start.

BASKETBALL GIRLS

After leading her team to a gold medal triumph in MNIT Jaipur, Aditi Asthana, Girls’ Basketball Captain will look to replicate that performance in a much tougher field at BOSM, one that includes colleges from Delhi that have never been here before. In spite of declining to venture a prediction of her team’s medal chances (“I don’t want to get jinxed.” She replied sheepishly) Aditi seemed confident of improving on last year’s third-place finish. Bolstered by the presence of three first year students (including a national level player) and the early arrival of a highly attentive coach (“the best coach we’ve had yet.”), the team has stayed positive throughout their practice sessions that have lasted over a month now. On being asked to comment on the effect of a declining female population on girls’ sports teams, Aditi offered an optimistic opinion. She believes that while the numbers might have fallen, the interest levels and sporting capabilities of the girls from the current batches have definitely improved, as evinced by the positive response that her team received for their selection trials. She conceded that playing dual roles (team captain and Joint Sports Secretary) has worked to her advantage. In addition to being able to choose convenient fixtures, she has acquired an understanding of what it feels like to be on the organizational side of things, which, she admitted, isn’t an easy side to be on. Overall, Aditi would look forward to rounding off what looks like a bigger more eventful BOSM with a basketful of glory.

Basking in the Glory

Basketball has always been one of the most popular sports in BITS with huge spectatorship. This year’s men’s ‘BASKEE’ team are looking good to finish well in BOSM, reckons skipper Anuj Loomba. Basketball has been a traditional crowd-puller in BITS and BITSians are known to get behind their team in victory and defeat. Coach Honey has been inspirational so far and the team is playing well as a unit. Anuj credits the coach for the high degree of preparedness of the team and the confidence of the team members. The team undergoes a strict daily practice routine involving an hour of drills/workouts and match practice where the team is divided into groups that play against one another. The rigorous regimen has resulted in the players feeling match-fit and raring to go. The team has performed well in training and we can expect a better finish than last year, feels Anuj. So as they do their bit we BITSians much keep up the support and and play our role in boosting their morale. Anuj hopes the team play the level they are capable of and bring home the gold this BOSM.