Asian International School (AIS) in Colombo ended a 16-year title drought by capturing the Sri Lanka Schools Under-17 Girls' 'B' Division Basketball Championship with a decisive 65-35 victory over St. Thomas’ Catholic International College, Seeduwa. The final was held at the Olympus Indoor Stadium in Malabe.

AIS’s championship win marked the culmination of a strong campaign characterized by teamwork, discipline, and consistent performance across the squad. Leading the team was captain Shrutika Sridharan, whose leadership and dedication set a standard for her teammates. Vice-captains Nethumi Wijendra and Onadi Perera also played key roles in rallying the team throughout the tournament.

Zoe Verma Perera was recognized as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, reflecting her consistent impact during the competition. Wijendra earned the Best Offensive Player award, highlighted by her scoring ability and leadership in maintaining offensive pressure.

Other notable contributors included Ruckshekha Sivakumaran, Rudeena Amarasinghe, Thinuli Ranasinghe, Retika Sridharan, and Harisha Ratnakumar. Their efforts in scoring, defense, playmaking, and sustaining team energy were integral to AIS’s success.

Prior to the final, AIS demonstrated their strength with commanding victories in the knockout stages. They advanced past Sangamiththa Balika Vidyalaya, Galle, with a 72-52 quarter-final win, followed by a 54-38 semi-final win against St. Peter’s College, Negombo, contested at the Ballers Hub in Moratuwa.

The school’s leadership and support staff played significant roles in the team’s achievements. Principal Harshana Perera provided strong backing for the basketball program, while Head of Sports Nihara Bagoos helped foster a supportive environment for the players. Coach Chathura Wickramage was credited with building a cohesive and competitive team through rigorous preparation and commitment, particularly evident during the later stages of the tournament.

Additionally, teachers-in-charge Gimhani Gamage and Shamali Rajapaksa contributed significantly behind the scenes, helping maintain player focus and dedication throughout the championship campaign.

This title represents a milestone for AIS, concluding their 16-year wait for an Under-17 girls’ basketball championship and reaffirming their position as a rising force in Sri Lanka school sports.