Manama: Sheraton Bahrain Hotel were crowned champions of the Inter-Hotel Basketball championship after they defeated Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa 62-58 in the final, writes MAZIN RIZK. 

The tournament, which was launched in 2004, saw Sheraton Bahrain Hotel being crowned champions for the third time making them the team with most final appearance (four finals) and the highest wins. 

Sheraton had also claimed third place twice during their past participations in the tournament. 

Coach Victor Grafilo, who has been in charge of the team since 2004, won the coach of the year award. 

“During our last tournament we lost in the final to Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa, so it is a good feeling defeating them this time for the title,” said the 43-year-old Filipino. 

Grafilo had no professional career in basketball and has been purely working for the love of the game. 

He spent the nights with his players motivating them for the final match. 

“The night before the game, I spoke to the players and told them, you either come out tomorrow as champions or live regretting what could have been, thankfully they were crowned champions,” Grafilo added. 

“I cannot hide my happiness. I am very proud of the players, of what they have done and what they have achieved.”