THIS season's Basketball Dar es Salaam League (BDL) starts today, with men's category defending champions Dar City locking horns with rivals JKT at the Don Bosco Upanga courts.

The league has brought together 16 teams in the men's category and 16 for the women's event.

In the women's category, defending champions Vijana Queens will open their quest for an impressive run with a game against City Queens.

Dar City BBC's coach, Mohammed Mbwana, said they are well prepared to ensure they start the league with a win.

"We are well prepared for the game. We know it will be a difficult game due to the type of opponents we are facing but we are well prepared to face them," Mbwana revealed.

JKT side's coach, Christian Jacob 'Webber', said coming out with a victory is the most important aspect for them.

"If you start the league with a win, it's a good thing and that's what we have planned to do. Our opponents are one of the best teams, so let's meet on the court," he said.

Today's game- which will start at 2 pm- will be the league's opening encounter and will reminisce last season's men's league final meeting, which saw the two clubs face off and Dar City emerge as champions.

JKT grabbed qualification for the finals of the men's showdown and set up a clash against Dar City- climaxing with Dar City garnering victory in the best-of-four-tie series to secure the trophy.

Winning three out of the four matches of the final witnessed Dar City ending as winners, overcoming JKT 75-61, 75-56 and 69-63.

JKT outfit sought a bounce back having emerged victoriously once, cruising to win only one match with a 68-55 win.

The league's other opening day matches in men's showdown will witness DB Oratory facing Srelio.

In the women's category, there will be two clashes, one of which will see Jeshi Stars take on Twalipo Queens whereas Mgulani Stars will face JKT Stars.