The first weekend of competition in Abu Dhabi of the NSL Basketball League saw 21st Century Private Academy’s dual MVPs push the school to a 43-20 victory over The International School of Choueifat (ISC) at New York University.

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Lance Castro fell just short of a double-double, scoring a game-high 10 points to go with nine rebounds, while Maynard Hernandez was equally impressive in filling up the stat line with seven points, two rebounds, four assists and five steals in their opener yesterday.

The high scorer for the day was John Steve Lazo, who scored 16 points to go with four rebounds and three assists to spur Philippine Emirates Private School to a 44-17 win over Al Ain English Speaking School.

ISC had more success in the U14 category as they cruised to a 34-19 victory over The Model School.

Gohar Hussain was superb on the glass, snatching 10 boards in addition to his six points and two blocks.

Sitting out the week with a bye were U14 squad of the 21st Century Private School, who will be in action for the first time next weekend as they begin their campaign.