Title contenders Bangladesh Navy and Border Guard Bangladesh got off to a winning start in the Independence Day Basketball Tournament at Dhanmondi Basketball Gymnasium yesterday.

Navy defeated Bangladesh Air Force 61-46 in the first match of the tournament after leading the first half  31-19.

BGB also posted a convincing 57-46 points win over Dhumketu Club in another match. BGB overcame a stiff resistance in the second half  after leading the first half by 31-19.

Bangladesh Army, another leading basketball team, dumped Eaglets Club 63-54 in the other match of the day. The first half scores were 23-18 in favour of Army.

Twelve teams divided into four groups are taking part in the three-day tournament. Bangladesh Basketball Federation President Dr Mustafa Jalal Mohiuddin inaugurated the tournament. BBF general secretary A K Sarker Bhaya was also present.

Bangladesh Navy have been drawn in Group-A with BAF and Old DOHS. Army grouped with Hornts SC and Eaglets in Group-B, BGB, Dhumketu and Baksibazar are fighting from Group-C, while Gregs Club, Police and Shawons are battling from Group-D.