Players compete in the 2023 the Northern Region Basketball Open which will officially kick off on July 8 in Hà Nội. Photo of organisers

HÀ NỘI — The Northern Region Basketball Open is back in action after four years of absence this weekend at the Hà Nội's Cầu Giấy Gymnasium.

The tournament was first organised in 2014 and ran until 2018. It was then cancelled due to a number of different reasons.

This year it will feature 16 teams representing of cities and provinces from the northwith the opening ceremony on July 8 night. 

There were several matches held prior to the opening.

Bắc Giang won 84-47 over Hà Giang while Quảng Ninh lost 49-59 to Hoà Bình on July 7.

Earlier, Hải Phòng trounced Thái Nguyên 67-35; Hà Nội defeated Ninh Bình 100-75; Nghệ An defeated Hải Dương 83-55 and Thái Bình beat Lào Cai 40-35.

Supporters encourage athletes at the Northern Region Basketball Open in Cầu Giấy Gymnasium.

Through the event, organisers and the Hà Nội's Department of Culture and Sports will review the development of clubs and athletes in the north. Talented players will be introduced to the cities' and provincial squads and professional clubs. 

Teams are divided into four groups competing in the round robin format. The two best teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.

Among them, Hà Nội is the top title favourite as it is home to former Vietnam Basketball Association players such as Local MVP Phú Hoàng, Thành Nam, Hưng James and Việt Anh. Meanwhile, other players were former national team members including Sỹ Dũng and Đức Huy.

Nghệ An is another team with potential thanks to Đình Tài and Ngọc Bảo  who, despite their youth, proved their abilities in different competitions. Rising star Từ Dương Huy, who is playing in this year VBA, is also a key of the team.

The final is scheduled on July 15 and the winner will walk away with VNĐ20 million. The second and third place teams will earn VNĐ10 million and VNĐ5 million, respectively.

Awards of VNĐ3 million and gifts will be given to MVP of the tournament.

All matches will be broadcast live on VTVcab platforms and their fanpage. VNS