The Inter-Lasallian Junior Basketball Tournament has attracted a plenty of interest from basketball lovers and unveiled several stars for the future as well. One such player, who looks to be having a bright future, is Yasantha Lakshan Mendis of Colombo South International School (CSIS).

The 13-year-old center has made an impact in the tournament so far and has carried through his team single-handedly in the tournament.

He played a vital role in his team’s first round victories against De La Salle College, Colombo, and St. Anthony’s MV, Colombo, scoring more than half the points in the two games for his side and he was once again the top scorer in the quarter-final encounter against St. Xavier’s College, Mannar, yesterday (20).

CSIS will have a sterner test in the semi-final against St. Benedict’s College, scheduled for today and the contributions of the youngster will be vital for his team’s progress to the final.

Mendis, who says his interest for the game started with the tri-nation basketball tournament that was played in Colombo involving Sri Lanka, India and Kazakhstan, has played for CSIS since those days.

"We have played well throughout the tournament. I think every single member of the team helped us to progress thus far," Mendis told ‘Sunday Island’’

Apart from playing basketball, his other major passion is collecting stamps. Young Mendis says NBA star Alan Iverson is his favourite player.

Tall and strong, Mendis’ ability has forced opposition coaches to employ unique techniques and he is often guarded by two defenders. But even then, he has been unstoppable being a thorn in the opposition’s flesh all the time.

Even when opposition teams have cut off all scoring opportunities, Mendis has surprised a few with his ability to hit three pointers with sharp accuracy.

He certainly is a player for the future. Mendis thanked his principal at school, sports co-coordinator, coach and all team members for encouraging him to make steady progress in the sport.