The Protea Warriors made history by becoming the first-ever champions of the 2026 Males Super Power Week, following an impressive 57–34 victory over USSA in the final at Wembley Indoor Arena in Johannesburg on Sunday, 15 November.
Both teams booked their places in the final earlier in the day, with the Protea Warriors defeating SA Under 23 and USSA overcoming Eswatini in their respective semi-final encounters.
The final got off to a fiercely contested start, with both teams showing attacking intent from the opening whistle. While the Protea Warriors drew first blood, USSA matched their opponents goal for goal, ensuring the opening quarter ended level at 11–11.
The experience of the Protea Warriors proved decisive in the second quarter as they began to take control of proceedings. Capitalising on their centre passes and forcing crucial turnovers, the Warriors outscored USSA 14–7 to establish a 25–18 lead at half-time.
The Protea Warriors continued to pile on the pressure in the third quarter, with head coach Shiko Mokaila making tactical adjustments to maintain his side’s momentum. Their defensive intensity and clinical finishing saw them extend their advantage to 42–26 heading into the final quarter.
With the inaugural title within reach, the Protea Warriors maintained their composure and dominance in the closing stages, eventually sealing a convincing 57–34 victory to be crowned the first-ever Super Power Week champions.
The inaugural Males Super Power Week featured ten participating teams, namely Protea Warriors, SA Under 23, Zimbabwe, USSA, Botswana, Royal Bafokeng, Namibia, Eswatini, SANDF and SAPS.
The SPAR Proteas squad, who were also in camp preparing for the 2027 SPAR Challenge in January and the England series in February, added to the occasion by participating in several exhibition matches as part of their preparations.
OVERALL AWARD WINNERS
Best Defender: Linamanda Bhilli (SA Under 23)
Best Midcourt: Kwandile Sithole (Protea Warriors) and Qiniso Gwala (USSA)
Most Accurate Shooter: Bongani Joy Baleka (USSA)
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Njabulo Nekhavhambe (Protea Warriors)
