Nagaland Basketball Association welcomes two new B-Level referees

The Nagaland Basketball Association (NBA) has proudly announced the successful certification of Imkumnaro Pongen from Mongsenyimti village and Sentitoshi Jamir from Chungtia village as nationally recognized B-Level referees. Their achievement follows commendable performances at the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) Referees Examination conducted during the 39th Youth National Basketball Championship, 2024 in Kolkata.
With their induction, Nagaland now counts four nationally certified B-Level referees, marking a significant milestone in the state’s basketball development and officiating standards.
Imkumnaro Pongen has consistently demonstrated excellence both as a player and now as a referee. She clinched Gold with Intermingle Club at the N.I Jamir Memorial Basketball Tournament 2024 in Mokokchung, secured Bronze with the Mokokchung team at the Nagaland Olympics 2024 in Dimapur, and represented Nagaland at the Northeast Olympic Games in Shillong in 2022. Her transition from player to referee reflects her deep commitment to the sport and growing leadership within the basketball community.
Sentitoshi Jamir brings academic rigor alongside his athletic achievements. Currently pursuing a Diploma in Sports Coaching at Netaji Subhas Southern Centre, Bengaluru, he has represented Nagaland at the 73rd Senior National Basketball Tournament in Ludhiana, Punjab, and won Bronze at the North East Games 2024 in Chumukedima. He also completed a Six-Week Certificate Course in Sports Coaching, further strengthening his technical foundation and understanding of the game.
The NBA stated that their certification not only elevates the standard of officiating in Nagaland but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring referees and athletes across the region. The association extended its warm congratulations to Imkumnaro and Sentitoshi, expressing confidence in their continued contributions toward building a vibrant and values-driven basketball culture in the state.