THE Saints women's team have joined the Raiwaqa Basketball Association this season.
The former Suva/Laucala Basketball League giant adds another firepower to the RBA competition which already had top teams such as Sparks, Lady Birds and Mysticks.
This weekend, the Suva-based club will rub shoulders against the Raiwaqa clubs. RBA official Peniasi Kainamoli said.
"We are happy that Saints is joining us this season. They are the latest inclusion in our league and I believe their inclusion will lift the standard of competition for us," he said.
"Already we have the top teams in Sparks, Mysticks, Lady Birds and Golden Bati. I think to have another team like Saints will definitely benefit us."
Meanwhile Redz, University of the South Pacific and Police are the other teams in the RBA women's league.
Kainamoli said the other teams should not be underestimated as they could cause upsets in the league.
In the men's team, Boston, Mighty Mights, Mighty Sharks, Mac Paces, Golden Bati, Warriors, Veterans and Police will battle one another. Kainamoli said they were expecting another tough season when the league starts this weekend.
"Our league will start on Saturday. We have confirmed the number of teams in our league and we hope to be more professional in our organisation this year."
He said 2013 would be a challenging year for Raiwaqa.