THE HARD PART ABOUT WINNING

The hardest thing about winning is keeping the hunger to win again. Championship teams often lose that edge once they reach the top, leaving room for hungrier challengers to close the gap. At times during the regular season, GRA Women seemed to flirt with that danger — still unbeaten, but occasionally playing below their usual ruthless standards.

But when the lights came on at El Wak Stadium on Wednesday night, the reigning champions reminded everyone exactly who runs this league. In Game 1 of their best-of-three semi-final series against Reformers, the team they dethroned last season, the Braves sent a message that echoed loud and clear: they are not done yet.

WHAT WAS SAID

Ahead of the game, Coach Borsah made it clear that the playoffs demanded a different level of focus and intensity. He intimated that his players have been made aware of the high stakes of Playoffs basketball and have undergone rigorous training to that effect.

On the other side, Reformers head coach Mohammed Yakubu struck a more cautious tone, promising fans a competitive matchup — perhaps already aware of the mountain his side had to climb.

WHAT HAPPENED

After four quarters, there was no doubt who owned the night. GRA Women dominated from tip-off to buzzer, cruising to a commanding 76–38 victory.

The duo of Hannah and Gloria led the charge, running riot on offense and setting the tone early, with strong support from Ernestina, Martina, and the rest of the squad. Every possession reflected the fruits of their rigorous preparation — precise, physical, and unforgiving.

This was the Braves at their best: focused, fearless, and determined to stay on top.

THE PLIGHT OF THELMA DAWSON

Amid the Reformers’ struggles, Thelma Dawson shone brightly. In the absence of their 2023 MVP and rebounding powerhouse Ezequeen Dadzie, Thelma took on the heavy lifting and delivered an impressive 22-point performance — a lone spark in an otherwise difficult night for the former champions. Despite her heroics, she lacked the support needed to turn the tide against GRA’s relentless machine.

WHAT NEXT

The two teams will meet again on Friday, October 24, 2025, for Game 2. For the Reformers, it is do-or-die — a chance to restore pride and keep their playoff dreams alive. But for the Braves, another win would mean yet another step toward cementing a dynasty.