Defending champions Da Nang Dragons lost to freshmen Thang Long Warriors in the opening match of the Viet Nam Basketball Association League in Ha Noi yesterday.

Joly Rudolphe from Da Nang Dragons

It was the second loss for the team in 5 days, as they were defeated 54-94 in their pre-season match event.

Yesterday, the Dragons were bested 65-96 in a match where the Warriors took the lead from the beginning until the end.

The loss could be attributed to the absence of key player Stefan Nguyen Tuan Tu, who suffered a knee injury last month, when competing in the 29^th SEA Games in Malaysia. His teammate Joly Rudolphe also could not compete.

On the hosts’ side, Thang :Long Warriors presented their strongest roster, including national team captain Nguyen Van Hung and To Quang Trung, who made their debut at the new club.

The second match of the league will see Can Tho Catfish take on Ha Noi Buffaloes tomorrow.

(Source: VNS/ DA NANG Today)