Basketball in Africa

The head coach of the visiting Sierra Leonean basketball team, Young Sportsman Club, has given reasons why his team continues to substain defeat in the special Peace and Reconciliation tournament currently taking place at the Sports Commission in the Liberian capital Monrovia. Coach Ali Hijazi said one of the contributing factors is his team's strange introduction to 24 seconds clock which is universally used by FIBA members countries. "We don't play with 24 seconds clock in Freetown," he added. Another area cited for his defeats is the "poor refereeing" especially against his team, and made specific reference to his match against NPA Pythons in which his side lost with 20 points margin. "Because of the cheating, my players' momentum dies." The coach, who is also owner of the team also informed this paper that some of the key players of the team could not come due to school engagment. He said the team is not discourage over the defeats as the tournament is only a friendly one. The YSC Boss said he hopes to be back in Liberia for the Mano River Tournament in November this year and said before that, he hopes to invite a Liberian team for some friendly matches in Sierra Leone. Meanwhile, YSC continued to suffer deats in the ongoing tournament. She went down to Liberia's champion LPRC Oilers on March 29 63-73 points.

THE national Schools basket ball qualifying tournament for Northern Uganda will be held in Gulu.

The qualifiers that will involve schools from Gulu, Kitgum, Pader, Lira and Apac will begin on April 1.

According to the coordinator Mr. Silver Obol of the Uganda National Schools Basketball Association, the game has been scheduled to take place at the Kaunda grounds in Gulu Municipality.

Obol added that teams or individual participants who will be indisciplined or will violate the regulations will be disqualified and suspended for three years.

"A team is not expected to field more than two foreign players. All players should be from the district where the team comes from and students who sat for senior four national examinations and senior six national examinations are not allowed to participate," he said.

Commencement of the eagerly awaited MTN Basketball League that was scheduled for this evening has been pushed to Thursday next week.

Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (Fuba) Public Relations Officer Carol Nantalo confirmed to Daily Monitor yesterday that the opening ceremony was given another week.

"Yes, it has been postponed to Thursday because of a few problems, but the fixture and the venue remain the same," Nantalo said.

Fuba's Elliot Bagenda said the major reason for the postponement of the league was delayed registration of the teams.Most teams apart from men's champions Marines, UCU, Flammers and new side DRUU shunned the registration that required payment of Shs120,000.

This will be the fifth year for MTN to sponsor the league. The sponsorship package has grown from Shs5m in 2002 to Shs7m in 2003, Shs15m in 2004 and Shs60m last year.

Defending champions Nkumba Marines will open against Falcons, while the top women's side A-1 Challenge begin their defence against Makerere Sparks.

THE 2006 MTN Basketball League tips off tomorrow at the YMCA courts. Before action on the courts, the sponsors MTN Uganda and the Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) will hold the official opening ceremony.

The two defending champions will be in action to start their campaign as Nkumba University Marines (Men) face arch-rivals Falcons, while the women’s giants A-1 Challenge take on Makerere Sparks.
NOT VIOLENT: A-1’s Viola Akuma in action. Photo by E. Chicco

Falcons have said they now have a stronger team compared to last season. The 2004 league kings have signed new young faces and maintained the old players in order to challenge for top honours.

"We have got new young players and we are not losing any of our old colleagues. We are still very strong and want to get back to the top," Star player Henry Malinga told Daily Monitor yesterday.

The new players include the Sharing trio of Charles Suubi, Sadiq Mugisha and Jackson Kikonyogo. Others are; George Kiyinji, Brian Ssentongo, Gad Eteu and Warriors' Justus Mugisha.

Left handed Luis Habineza, Obed Walker and Walter Alenyo were reportedly falling out with the club, but were blocked from joining other teams. Senior players Sam Obol and Andrew Tendo who were contemplating on retiring from active basketball, have also decided to serve the club for another season.

DEFENDING champions Nkumba Marines and their predecessors Falcons will highlight the new basketball season when it opens at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium tomorrow evening.

The 12th edition of the competition will also see champions A-1 Challenge take on rivals MUK-Sparks in an early game.

Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) announced that all was set for the commencement of the national league that is expected to run till October.

While Marines won the league last year, Falcons finished third and the rivalry between the two is expected to keep the fans on their toes throught.

According to last season’s match-up, Falcons convincingly defeated Marines 75-57 and will be hoping for a repeat when they parade the Malingas, (Henry and Eric) and Dennis Oporia in the front court tomorrow.

Falcons have won the league a record five times.

Nigeria's failure to win a medal in both the male and female basketball events of the just concluded 18th Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia has been attributed to lack of adequate planning and preparation for the global fiesta.

Sam Ahmedu, a FIBA/AFABA match commissioner told THISDAYSports yesterday, that Nigeria was a sure bet for medal before the first jump ball "but poor planning and preparation robbed us of such glory in both the male and female events."

The retired army colonel, who is also a member of the board of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), insisted that going to the Games with just 10 female players and 11 male was the first signal that "we were doomed to fail. That decision alone meant that undue pressure would be on the few players available."

Hear him: "Technically, there is no way you can blame the players for failing to win any medal. To have gone to Melbourne with just 10 female and 11 male players was not a wise decision. By that, we shot ourselves in the foot even before the first jump ball. So why should any reasonable person expect miracle from the players given the type of handicap they had in Melbourne?"

Ahmedu, who has been consistent in his criticism of the manner of picking coaches for the national basketball teams, also faulted the relegation of the coach with the most players in the team to the background.

"Those days when Nigeria was doing very well in the sport, coaches of First Bank team were usually given priority because their players dominated the team. That was how Coach Agboola Pinhero led the male and female teams to Scotland in 1991 to win bronze at the Commonwealth championship. Coach Toyin Sonoiki also did the same in 1995 with the male team. Is it not now a shame that several years later, Nigeria is finishing fourth in a competition we had the chance to win bronze or silver?"The NBBF board member, who just returned from America where he went for a consultancy on the sport, decried the decision to camp the team in Australia before the Games.

"The team was supposed to have travelled for training tour in January. It could not embark on the trip. Going to Australia was wrong because Team Australia basketball was one of the contenders for the title, it was like going into your enemy's territory to rehearse your war plans," he observed.

The Nigerian male and female basketball teams lost in the battle for the bronze medals to England after raising the hope of compatriots with good runs at the group stages. The female team in particular was very disappointing, losing by just three points, a situation that led most of the girls to break down in tears after the last second sounded out.

Kenya Railways and Kenya Commercial Bank Lionesses women's basketball clubs may pull out of this year's Premier League. According to a technical official of the KCB Lions, who requested for anonymity, their women's counterparts maybe withdrawn from the 2006 competition among other teams which had not been doing well. Kenya Railways are also said to be facing sponsorship challenges.

Kenya's newest team, Yana, has been included in the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) women's Premier League.

They will meet KCB Lioness when the 2006 season gets underway at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Saturday.

Yana, who have promised to give their opponents a run for their money while giving their best, was formed two months ago. They got the KBF nod to play in the league this month.

KBF fixtures secretary, Steve Nyakina, confirmed their inclusion."They have been admitted and have agreed to abide by the rules. They have everything in place, including a sponsor," he said.

Yana will be sponsored by Sameer Africa. They have reportedly recruited experienced players and are all rearing to go come Saturday.

"We will not reveal the identity of our players now. You will see who they are on Saturday," said one of players, who is said to be instrumental in the team's formation.

SPORT in Action (SIA) on Friday donated building material worth K20 million for the construction of a basketball court at Kazemba Basic School in Chimuntu village of Chongwe.

The building materials included sand, cement and stones. SIA director Clement Chileshe said they were trying to provide recreational places for pupils who had no access to such facilities. Chileshe added that their promotion of sport in schools was part of their campaign of promoting Physical Education.

The pupils also played games including soccer and netball on grounds which have been cleared and goals put up with the help of SIA and the School.

And Kazemba Basic School headmaster Dereck Chikololo expressed happiness at the help the sports NGO was giving them. "Our school lacks a lot especially in sports. We used to use branches and had no balls for sports and we are grateful that sports in action has helped us," he said.

He said the school had a P.E teacher adding that with the coming of sports equipment and courts, the pupils would be engaged in sport which will enable them compete with other schools not only in Chongwe.

Women
KCC 24 A-I 23
Juniors
Crane 13 Najja 11
Men
Makerere 28 Power 18

Michael Kariuki and Ben Komakech were in double figures as hosts Makerere University dominated Sadolin Power 28-18 to win the men's accolade of the 37th edition of Makerere Open finals on Sunday.

The strong University team that had a collection of top players from league sides led all the quarters with Allan Tawoda and eventual MVP Kariuki notching 8 points apiece.

Komakech did all the assists to help the Inter-Universities champions avenge last year's loss to Power. Tournament top scorer Isaac Afidra made 10 points for his side.
In the women's seniors, KCC retained the title after a slim 24-23 win over league queens A-I Challenge.

The two sides had 6 points each at the end of the first quarter, but A-I's 7-3 score in the second gave them a 13-9 lead at half time. KCC then recovered and leveled matters at 13 all.

The tight game was destined for over-time with both teams locked at 23 points. But Miriam Hamala was fouled in the last two seconds and stepped on the charity line to convert one of two free throws that made the difference. This was after Josephine Namayega had held onto the ball for two minutes waiting for the final whistle to send the game into added time.

The junior girls' title went to Crane High after their 13-11 triumph over Najja High. Crane High Boys got a walk over after Najja High boys failed to turn up for the final.

University and Colleges League (UCBL) ended over the weekend in Nairobi with new teams claiming the 2006 crown in style.

For the men it was Kenyatta University while the girls' title was taken by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat)"Lynx".

The finals were played at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium. UCBL started two months ago and gathered a total of eight women and nine men's teams.

"Pirates" beat Kenya Christian Industrial Training Institute (KCITI) 'Wildcats" 78-68 to lift the men's title. The women's crown went to Jkuat who also dismissed KCITI "Ladycats" 63-50.

In the men's category, KU raced to a 4-0 lead before KCITI charged back for a narrow 12-11 advantage. At the end of the first half, KU were still on the driving seat 31-27.

The third quarter saw KU take a 11 point lead but the losers fought back to tie the scores 56-56 with 4:36 left to play. The duel went back and fourth for a 66-66 deadlock at the end of the regular time.

In the extra five minutes, KCITI missed all their attempts making one foul shot as KU ran away with their first UCBL crown. MVP Griffin Ligare scored 21 points and Patrick Kirui added 13. For KCITI, Martin Okawko had 19 and Joshua Nuva 14.

The ladies final was all Jkuat, who dominated in all quarters. Emma Nyakwea named MVP provided 17 points, Monica Odhiambo 18 while Naomi Waithera sunk 10.

For the KCITI side, who trailed 19-28 at the break and had no answer for Charles Goro's finely tuned side, Jacky Tindi scored 17 points and Volnet Wanyama made 13.

United States International University (USIU) beat Strathmore 113-84 for third place. Abel Nson dropped 35 points for the "Tigers". Strathmore had 14 from Ken Shihundu.

USIU ladies won the women's third place with a 49-30 win over Strathmore. Brenda Odula hit 18 points for "Flames" and losers Lucy Apondi shot 12.

Alex Wright (USIU) won the men's three point shooting contest with Odula bagging the women's. Paul Ojuogo (KU) went away with the dunking trophy. Jkuat tactician Charles Gor got the coach of the year award.

Most Improved Players went to Richard Sinda (KCA) wnd Beryl Amayo (Strathmore).Most Dependable Players were Martin Okwako and Brenda Angeshi both of KCITI.

Dann O'Were

Harare basketball
Standing

G W L F
1 Cameo 23 21 2 0
2 Jewels 23 18 5 0
3 Mufakose Hawks 24 16 8 0
4 Cavaliers 23 17 5 1
5 Celtics 23 16 7 0
6 Leopards 21 17 4 0
7 Highdon Raiderz 22 14 7 1
8 Maxifix Pross 21 14 7 0
9 UZ Stars 23 8 15 0
10 Golden Spurs 24 7 17 0
11 Jammers 20 9 11 0
12 South Central 21 7 13 1
13 Gentlemen's A. 23 3 19 1
14 Mbare Bulls 24 3 19 2
15 Black Rhinos 19 4 10 5
16 Kambuzuma 18 2 12 4

The visiting basketball champions of Sierra Leone The visiting basketball champions of Sierra Leone Young Sportsman Club(YSC)on Friday March 24 lost to one time Liberia Champions Mighty Barrolle 69-63 points in their first match in a one week Peace and Reconciliation Basketball Tournament organized by the Liberia Basketball Federation(LBF). Mamoud Lahai scored the highest points for YSC. He scored 16 points while Alaric Richards scored 17 points for Mighty Barrolle. On March 25, YSC went down to Invincible Eleven 76=65 points. Octavius Jackson netted in 14 points for YSC while Armah Bakana scored 21 points for the home team. NPA Pythons got their share of the visitors when she whipped YSC 86-66 points on March 26. The tournament will take a break today and resume tomorrow March 28 with the visitors taking on Uhuru Kings.
on Friday March 24 lost to one time Liberia Champions Mighty Barrolle 69-63 points in their first match in a one week Peace and Reconciliation Basketball Tournament organized by the Liberia Basketball Federation(LBF). Mamoud Lahai scored the highest points for YSC. He scored 16 points while Alaric Richards scored 17 points for Mighty Barrolle. On March 25, YSC went down to Invincible Eleven 76=65 points. Octavius Jackson netted in 14 points for YSC while Armah Bakana scored 21 points for the home team. NPA Pythons got their share of the visitors when she whipped YSC 86-66 points on March 26. The tournament will take a break today and resume tomorrow March 28 with the visitors taking on Uhuru Kings.

1) Opening Remarks:
a)The meeting was called to order at 1305. The Vice President welcomed all members and wished everyone a successful 2006 season.
2) Northern Region Committee
a)Nominations were received and the following people were put into their respective posts as they were all uncontested.
Co-ordinator -Mr Rogers Moyo
Secretary -Mr Jan Mulunda
Treasurer -Mr James Zulu

3) Teams Taking part in the 2006 season.
a)It was recommended that all teams wishing to participate in the 2006 basketball season make the fact know by Wednesday 8th March.
b)Teams that showed immediate interest were
CEC (Men and Women), Ndola Clippers (Men), FQMOL (Men) formerly Bwana Mkubwa Nets,Luansha (Men) , Luanshya Eagles (men and women), Ndola Woosters (women), Lechwe Steel (Men and Women), Hetro Bullets (men), Mufulira Magnets (men and women), Simba (men), Chiambeshi (?) , Mufulira (men), CBU (men and women).
All but Simba, Chambsehi and Mufulira confirmed immediately
This brought the total number of teams interested to a total of 12 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams

c)Teams were formerly informed of the affiliation fees and payment deadlines.
Club affiliation K300000
Team affiliation (15 players) K200000
Team Official K50000 each
Additional Players K50000 each
Payment deadline 22 March 06
d)Most clubs protested against the increased fees and the short notice for payment of affiliation fees.
e)The procedure to be followed when paying affiliation fees was indicated.

All payments were to be made directly into the ZBA account
At Standard Chartered Main Branch, acc# 0100110139400

Two copies of the deposit slips were to be made,
The original and one copy to be sent to ZBA one copy to be submitted to the ZBA North VP along with the club and player registration form.
The other copy is for the clubs records.
No member of the ZBA Executive will handle any payments directly.
4) Matters arising from the National ZBA AGM
a)Payment for use of courts. The VP suggested that ZBA provide the Northern Region with the same facility as the South. Clubs were paying K150 000 for the hire of the best two courts on the Copperbelt, Zamsure and Lechwe. It was also suggested that clubs focus more on developing the facilities that spending money on hire. K. Kawanda was tasked with following up FQM to see if they would put up floodlights at Zamsure.
b)Payments for officials travel. K. Musonda suggested that when officials travel on ZBA business, ZBA should assist with the payments for travel and accommodation. It was also noted that the Northern Region had not received any money for the development of facilities like 24-second shot clock, stopwatches, or even stationary for administering games.
c)Balls, B Mwango inquired why ZBA had not provided basketballs for matches. T. Mutasa responded that two basketballs had been provided, and he was in possession of one of the balls from K. Musonda, the second ball never reached him.
d)K Musonda suggested that we needed at least two scoreboards to be kept at the two main venues.
5) Proposals for the improvement match attendance by teams
a)The biggest problem was the cost of attending matches for unsponsored teams. On an average weekend clubs spend anything between K800 000 to K1 400 000 on travelling expenses. Some clubs can spend up to K600 000 one weekend’s travel expenses depending on the venue.
b)Non Sponsored teams to produce adequate courts to host games to reduce on travel costs.
c)Host teams must be organised on time.
d)Clubs must as per resolution from last year provide referees, this would help with expenses for the clubs.
e)Clubs must endeavour to organise fundraising activities to raise money for their expenses.
f)B. Nsama suggested that ZBA North does not advertise enough as a result, there is poor match attendance by the general public. Radio Chengelo, Mwembe Kaona and Patrick Chibuta were immediately targeted to give weekends reports and publicises the weekend’s fixture.

g)CEC indicated that they needed to have their fixtures sent to them two weeks in advance for them to receive funds. The VP indicated that all clubs must provide an email contact to facilitate easy communication as sms was not acceptable for sponsors and faxes were expensive for the committee to pay for. Further to that he indicated that all clubs must also make an effort to contact the relevant people to find out what is going on. As it is very difficult to contact some clubs.
h)It was noted that it seemed the sponsor had no interest in the Copperbelt as their advertising banners and goods were not provided last season. The VP indicated that it was possibly because of the many fixture changes necessitated by clubs failing to attend matches, unavailability of some venues, and club events that were not on the national calendar. For example trips to Lusaka, fundraising activities and unavailability of clubs that were not indicated when the original fixture was produced.
i)The VP suggested that if transport could be sponsored from Luanshya and Chingola via Mufulira, to Kitwe, this would prove to be the most cost-effective solution.
6) Proposals for improvement of team performances
a)Coaching / refereeing clinics must be held and school coaches / referees invited to attend. The Co-ordinator was tasked with organising these events. The VP noted that teams were apathetic and did not respond to the clinics held last year and proposed that it be made mandatory.
b)Inter-team communication. Coaches and players need to discuss strategies, get advise on their week points, learn from other teams strong points etc.
c)Arranging friendly matches.
d)Schools basketball needs to be improved and promoted. The hosting of curtain raisers where schools would start to integrate into ZBA would be beneficial.
e)Look at ZBA’s relationship with schools in the constitution.
7) Opening Tournament.
a)The 25th March 06 was proposed as the date for the opening tournament.
b)Luanshya was proposed as the venue, Pending court approval by the co-ordinator, inspection to take place on the 11th of March. Zamsure was set as the backup venue.
c)VP indicated that there was no money for the running of the tournament, Referees and prizes would be a problem. VP to try to find sponsorship or set participation fee.
8) Any Other Business
a)It was noted that female representation was very poor in this region, almost no females attend meetings and the number of female teams was low.
b)Regional First Aid boxes need to be procured. Mr Kawanda and Mr Kabunda volunteered their services as they were in the medical field to attend to medical problems at matches free of charge.
c)Mr M’kandawire suggested an end of year Party. VP indicated that this should possibly be tasked to the players union, which is yet to be formed. Further to that he indicated that he felt that the region needed to address some fundamental problems of clubs failing to meet their ZBA obligations before concentrating on other activities not directly related to the sport.

There being no further business, the meeting ended at 1535.





Tonderai Mutasa
ZBA Vice President

DEFENDING champions Nkumba-Marines will be desperate to rediscover their form in the Makerere Open basketball tournament that starts today at the pool court and main ground.

Marines endured a mediocre performance during the Hoops-of-Hope tournament two weeks ago, and the Makerere Open offers the Entebbe-based team a chance to stamp their authority on the local game.

Paul Mwaka should replace Donald Blick who is AWOL as he takes over the lynchpin role in the team’s attacking options.

Apart from local challenges, Marines should embrace competition from United States International University (USIU) of Kenya and Butare University from Rwanda that were due today morning.

“One of our targets is to give teams a chance to gauge their readiness for the national league,” said tournament organiser Jalia Nassali.

The tournament that has attracted 17 teams will act as a yardstick for this year’s MTN basketball league that starts next weekend.

NORTHLEA High School will host the Top Schools Unde-r20 boys’ basketball tournament today.

The event is likely to attract over 20 schools.
A round robin competition format has been adopted with the top teams from the pools advancing to the semifinals.
Last year’s winners Petra have confirmed that they will take part as they seek to go all out to return the title. This year’s edition is likely to produce stiff competition as Christian Brothers College (CBC), one of the best schools in the game, have also confirmed that they will be taking part.
CBC missed last season’s tournament.
CBC, the losing finalists in 2003, will certainly want to make their presence felt in this year’s tournament as they have proved to be a hard team to beat in the past years.
Mpopoma, Sikhulile, Hamilton, Founders, St Columbus, Gifford, Msiteli, Milton and Luveve are some of the schools that have confirmed participation in the tournament.
Milton’s will rely on Admire Moyo while Northlea have Killion Ncube and Methembe Ndlovu among some of their star players.

MTN league men and women champions Nkumba University Marines and A-I Challenge will be out to prove their strength when the 37th edition of Makerere Open Basketball tournament tips off this morning.

The tournament that will attract more than 15 local teams gets underway at the University Pool and Main ground courts.

The two teams failed to win last year's titles of the same tournament. KCC Leopards and Sadolin Power run away with the women and men titles respectively.

However, this time round, the competition is expected to be more competitive and tight as the teams are using the event as a build-up ahead of the start of the MTN League.

Members of the Nigerian female basketball team wept like babies yesterday after narrowly crashing 75 - 78 to England in the third place match at the on going Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. The Nigerian team, which was down by three points, 72 - 75 before coming from behind to even scores at 75 - 75, had an opportunity of cruising home to win the bronze medal on offer but missed out after losing her two free throws after being fowled.

Loser of the throws, Rashidat Sadiq was the worst hit as she wept uncontrollably questioning though, rhetorically why she lost the throws.

"This is very sad. We did our best to earn a medal but ill luck denied us. What can I say? At least we all saw the game and how we came from behind to snatch the points but we were just unlucky not to have won the bronze here," she said amid tears.

The team had shot into the lead early in the match but soon lost control allowing the English girls to dictate the pace.

However, the match, which saw both teams determined to win the third place, left the Nigerians nervous throughout the game. Nigeria lost several scoring chances that eventually paved the way for an exciting evening for the girls from England.

BLACK RHINOS have been booted out of the Harare Basketball Association while Pioneer Blazers face a similar fate.

Rhinos were expelled from the league after they failed to pay affiliation fees and did not fulfil six league matches. Pioneer Blazers have been suspended after their player, Tineyi Tinarwo, assaulted two match officials who were handling their game against Drifters at the University courts. Tinarwo has been banned from taking part in any Basketball Union of Zimbabwe activities both on and off the pitch.

HBA vice-chairman (technical) Tendai Mikuruva, who was one of the officials assaulted by Tinarwo, said the Blazers have been suspended pending a disciplinary hearing. Blazers might be booted from the association. "Just like any losing team, Blazers were saying that we were biased in favour of their opposition (Drifters). "Tinarwo misbehaved and actually the whole team was not behaving in a good manner because one can not hit a referee in any sport.

"This has also resulted in Blazers being suspended until their case is heard before the disciplinary committee." Meanwhile, the HB A will this weekend conduct trials for the team to represent the province at the annual Youth Games scheduled for Chinhoyi this year. The trials will be conducted at three different venues with the first session scheduled for Yask College in Chitungwiza tomorrow. The trials will start at 9am on Saturday before moving to Zengeza High 1 in Chitungwiza at 1.30pm the same day.The final selection will be conducted at Harare's Queen Elizabeth School on Sunday starting at 9am. HBA administrator Simon Lawson said the prospective players should bring an identification card, birth certificate or a passport showing their date of birth. "The players should have been born on or after the first day of January 1988 but not after the last day of December 1991.

"Schools should bring at least one ball so that we have enough to get the selection going," said Lawson.

Fixtures A-League: Mbare Bulls v Highdon Raiderz, Kingdom Cavaliers v South Central, UZ Stars v Mufakose Hawks, Maxifix Pross v Varsity Leopards, Gentlemen's Association v Jewels, UZ Stars v Cameo, Faithwear Jammers v Kambuzuma All Stars. B-League: City Wolves v Airforce Falcons, Drifters v Richwood. Women: UZ Stars v Mufakose Hawks, Crocodiles v Jewels, UZ Stars v Cameo.

By Paul Munyuki

Arsene Bwanakubwa, the ESPOIR tactician’s eyes sweat revenge against the APR outfit.
Military Basketball side APR will be taking on arch-rivals ESPOIR basketball this Saturday in the National basketball league opener as the intensive rivalry between the two Kigali-based sides continues.

However, the military side has expressed dismay over the absence of their top two players as the club prepares to clash ESPOIR basketball Club at Rafiiki courts this Saturday.
The army side who only registered one loss at the hands of ESPOIR during the 2005 National basketball league season will go into the game without their star center Shalishali Kimanuka who is ill; and influential guard Mputu Tadibanga who lost a relative.
However, despite this heartbreak, the defending champions have expressed great buoyancy and grit as they go into this gigantic encounter.
Speaking to Chris Owor, the APR tactician, he noted that the players have been in good form and have great confidence which is key to winning any game.
He said that the pair of Jean de Dieu Umuchoni and Frank Rubanzangabo would fill up the center and guard positions.
The Kenyan tactician further said that he was expecting positive results from his side despite the fact that they will be playing away from home.

MTN basketball league giants will be out to test their new signings and the strength of their sides when the Makerere Open Basketball tournament gets under way this weekend.

The tournament will be used as a rehearsal for the 2006 MTN league season that tips off on March 31.

This 37th edition has already attracted most of the local giants including women and men league defending champions A-I Challenge and Nkumba University Marines.

University Assistant Sports Tutor Ms. Jalia Nassali told Daily Monitor that the teams have forwarded their confirmation.

"All the local giant teams have confirmed their participation except Falcons. More are expected to confirm before the tournament starts on Saturday," Nassolo said.

In the men's seniors, Kampala International University (KIU), Sadolin Power, Charging Rhino, Warriors, Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono and League champions Nkumba University Marines are set to tussle it out. Kololo Bush Courts, Crane High School and KCC Lions are the other contenders for the men's title.Women rivals Lady Bucks, Kampala City Council (KCC) Leopards, league queens A-I Challenge and hosts Makerere Sparks will face off.

They however face stiff challenges from Crane High, Amazon, UCU Ladies, Makerere University Business School (MUBS) and Makerere Cubs. Power and KCC Leopards are the defending champions for the seniors, while Crane High School and Rev. John Foundation-Kitintale are the defending champions for the Schools' and U-13 categories respectively.

Meanwhile, Crane High School-Kitintale will host the National Schools Basketball finals for Kampala region next weekend April 1-2.

"The excitement is back". aptly sums up the opening week matches of the 2006 V-mobile Premier Basketball League after three years of inaction in Nigeria's top flight league.

V - MOBILE PREMIER LEAGUE -

Ebun Comets set the tone in the opening match of the Atlantic Conference when it overan the Nigeria Customs on opening day last Saturday. Sunday 19th March was a double -header beginning with Lagos Islanders beating a rejuvenated Delta Force by 3 points before a youthful Dodan Warriors confronted the defending Champions, Union Bank in a "David Vs Golliath" setting.

And once more David truimphed over Golliath in a game pundits had already given to the bankers before the jump ball. Warriors won 78-70 in the game which went into overtime.(OT).

While Union Bank employed the half court controlled offense, looking for fast break points occasionally, for the Warriors it was transititon game all through. It was indeed "fire on the mountain" and at the end the youthful warriors parading players with an average age of between 16-17 years outran and outgunned the more experienced bankers who had in their fold national Point Guard Shola Alayande and former Warriors star Anyebe Alexander.

The big contributors for the Warriors were hirtherto unknown quantities like
7' 1" Charles Okwandu, 4 pts, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks in 6 minutes, PG Mohammed Bukar with 10pts, 4 Assists and consistent running, Seyi Ayodele Ahmed, who shot the leaving daylights out of the bankers from the 3 Pt range. Edwin jerry who was a monster filling the lanes were complemented by Omori Mbaram and Mike Umah who were effective inside and on the boards.

Though the 6' 9" Omori was 1 for 10 from the free throw line, he was very
effective on the boards and with his inside play where he drew a lot of fouls.

Speaking after the game, team proprietor and Technical Director of the team, Col Sam Ahmedu (Rtd) had this to say about the team which had been written off because of a large change of personnel in its roster' " Basketball is not necessarily about age of the players. We chose to field the young players from our Basketball Academy with high potentials to enable them gain experience playing at this level. And while our personnel may have changed, the team philosophy and intensity remains the same. We will always remain competitive".

The Warriors play the much experience Customs in their next game on April 1, in another high flyer due to the rivalry between the two teams.

The direction the Savannah Conference play offs for the Vmobile Premier Basketball League may alredy be taking shape right from the first jump ball as it was a mixed fortune for the Kano-based teams on the first day.

After spectacular matches, Kano Pillars beat the triumphant drum while another home team the AHIP Giants tasted the bitter pill of defeat. Pillars beat Yelwa Hawks 52-33 while Plateau Peaks belittled the Giants at the Sports Hall of the Sani Abacha Stadium.

The boys from Pillars playing the second match of the day went into early lead after the jump ball, making the Hawks to restort to defensive play in the first quarter of the game. The defensive play could hardly stop the rampaging Pillars as they raced up to 32 -11 lead before the end of the first quarter.

In the first game, Plateau Peaks defeated AHIP Giants after trailing for most part of the match. The journey weary Peaks started the match badly, failing to make any good board play or quality shots even from within the paint.

The Plateau team finished the first quarter 28-31 with the Giants living up to their name. However, the tide of the game soon changed after a series of tactical changes by the coach of the Peaks.

Following years of absence of international basketball match in the country, the Sports Commission on Broad Street is expected to come alive this Friday with an international friendly basketball match.

Speaking to The Analyst Sports Desk on Tuesday March 21, LBF Secretary General Fred Patti said the federation has invited YSC of Sierra Leone to play in series of international friendly matches in the country.

Mr. Patti said the YSC of Sierra Leone will play five of the Liberia's top basketball clubs in weeklong encounter that is geared towards promoting peace and reconciliation among the two countries.

The five clubs include Mighty Barrolle, Invincible Eleven (IE), NPA-Pythons, Uhuru Kings and LPRC-Oilers.

The local basketball house chief scribe further disclosed that the Sierra Leonean team, which is traveling by road, is expected to be in the country today, Wednesday, March 22.

The weeklong international friendlies will begin on Friday, March 24, with Mighty Barrolle taking the center stage against the Sierra Leonean counterpart YSC to open the action at the open air Sports Commission on Broad Street.

On Saturday, March 25, YSC of Sierra Leonean will take on Invincible Eleven (IE), and on Sunday, March 26, the National Port Authority (NPA)-Pythons will sort things out with the visitors.

The friendly encounter will take break on Monday, March 27, and resumes on Tuesday with the Sierra Leonean side taking on Coach Solomon George Uhuru Kings while on Wednesday, March 28, LBF current champions LPRC-Oilers and the visitors will come face to climax the weeklong international basketball march at the Sports Commission.This is the second time the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) is planning to host such friendly international matches at the Sports Commission. The LBF's first attempt was turned down by two African clubs from Nigeria and Ivory Coast.

Reports gathered say Liberians are said be happy over this latest develop especially the basketball lovers, who quest to see international returning to the Country is high.

At the same time the five Liberian top basketball teams are in high gear for the friendly international basketball match over the weekend.

By Dann O’were

University of Nairobi Terrorists over the weekend claimed the Pre-season tournament when they beat Co-operative Bank of Kenya 88-86 at KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka.

The varsity lads, who were spared relegation from the Premier League, were on fire, beating all top guns in this poorly-attended event that marked the start of the season.

The exciting final saw Terrorists and Co-op Bank go head to head before locking scores 74-74, prompting an extra five minutes. Moses Kamau was declared the best player.

To show that their win was not a flash in the pan, Terrorists, who have a young talented side, beat KCB Lions 67-60 and nailed Sprite Stormers 62-38 in their other two matches.

Co-op, on the other hand, had it easy against Stormers, winning 60-49 before crushing rivals KCB Lions 66-58.

The teams used the event to tune up for the league that starts on April 1. None of the women’s teams in the league and Division One players turned up for the tournament.

The Valentine and Memorial slated for last month, did not get off the ground.

Meanwhile, Upper Hill crushed Kahawa Garisson 56-32 in the quarter finals of the ongoing Nairobi Secondary Schools championships matches at Buru Buru Girls High School over the weekend. The victors took a 31-20 lead at the break and never looked back.

Neville Omondi hit game high 30 points while Sammy Ngengi, Ryan Migigo and Sammy Ngengi had 13 and 12 points.

In another game, St. Mary’s School nipped Highway Boys 69-68 in a closely-fought duel.Scorers were Abraham Kimeu, who had 23 points, David Ogolla (36) and the losers’ Moses Mugeni had 14 and Ibrahim Berete 14 points.

Gabriel Ingos’s Jaffrey’s Academy beat former national champions and his old team, St Austins Academy, 89-81. The victors led 51-42 at the breather.

The victors’ top scorers were David Sinda, who nailed 34 points and Charles Okoth who had 18, while the losers’ Boniface Okullo managed 20 points and Duncan Ndeda 18.

The semi-finals will be played at Hospital Hill school on March 25 from 10am to 2pm. Teams who have qualified are:

Girls — Kamukunji School vs Moi Nairobi Girls, St. George’s Girls vs Buruburu Girls; Boys — Jaffrey’s Academy vs Upper Hill; St. Mary’s School vs Aquinas/Lenana School. The final will be played on April 1 at Hospital Hill school.

Crane High School and Kibuli SS girls' teams won their Kampala region qualifying rounds to storm the National Schools Basketball Championships finals.

At Nabisunsa, Crane High came from behind to beat the hosts and national girls champions 46-41 in a game that unveiled skill and talent.

Florence Kalume, Kantungeko Nalusa and Immaculate Chocho were outstanding for the Kitintale girls side.At Lubiri SS, Kibuli SS dominated Lubiri High, Makerere College and Mengo SS to go top.

The Kampala zone finals will be held at Crane High on April 1-2 while the national championships are to be held in May at Ndejje Secondary School.

The Nigeria men and women national campaigning in the basketball event of the 18th Commonwealth Games holding in Melbourne, Australia will have their full when the semi-finals starts Tuesday.

The Nigeria women, D'Tigresses will take on host Australia in a repeat of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games Tuesday while New Zealand battle England in the other semi final.

The Scott Nnaji and Adewumi Aderemi coached Nigeria women team placed second behind New Land in Pool-B winning two matches and losing one to New Land Monday 83-53 points with captian of the side Mercy Okorie nutching up 15 points, 4 rebounds and 4 block shots while the duo of Funmilayo Ojelabi and Chioma Udeaja contributed 9 points each.

The Nigeria men team coached by Sani Ahmed and Andrew Isokpehi went down scandalously to Australia Sunday by 103-57 points came back to fight off stife challenges posed by the Scots for a 91-83 points victory which saw both Korea based Gabe Muoneke and home boy Ejike Ugboaja scoring 26 points each with Ugboaja recording a double-double with 15 rebounds while captain of the side Abdulrahman Mohammed added 25 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists.

The team made up largely of home-based players will have its hands full Wednesday when it slug it out against New Zealand in one of the men semi-finals.

Oljoro National Service Team is expected to participate in the national basketball competition scheduled to be held in Zanzibar from March 13 -17.

Sports, Education and Culture Officer of Oljoro National Service, Musa Luliga said that his team had fostered confidence after performing well in various events includingzonal and national competitions.

Oljoro is among six top notch teams selected to participate in the Union Champion Clubs tournament in Zanzibar. Others are Savio and National Service Headquarters both of Dar es Salaam and the rest are from the Isles. Each teach will be represented by fifteen players

Former Nigeria premier league champion, Islanders basketball club of Lagos last weekend got the better of visiting Delta Force basketball club of Asaba in a thrilling enmcounter that kept the fans on the edge of their seat for the better part of the game.

The week-one encounter which saw the Coach Toyin Sonoiki tutored Islanders side that parades a mixture of young and experience players picking the first two quarters with a slim margin of 16-15 and 15-14 for a 31-29 points at half-time.

The third quarters started with the Coach Lateef Erinfolami boys from Asaba approaching the game with all seriousness which gave them the third quarter with 20-17 points does gaining the upper hand for the first time, the third quarter lose saw the Islanders boys powered by forward Joshua Agbona and guard Michael Ogheneme who came out strongly in the fourth and final quarter to amazement of the Delta Force team who seems lost for idea on how to counter the Islanders.

With the former Nigeria four-peat champion falling back on the experience of Christopher Okoh who was acquire from city rival Dodan Warriors basketball club with good combination from teammates with every one knowing what is expected of him from guards to the front court players who boxed out and clear the board when necessary the Delta Force could not provide answers to what hit them as they lost the decisive quarter by 18-14 points for a cumulative scores of 66-63 points.

Ogheneme led the Islanders side in scoring with 17 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals followed by Okoh with 14 points, 7 rebounds and one steal with Agbona contributing 9 points and 6 rebounds and the Delta Force side it was young Sati Gombwer that led his team in scoring with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists, while Gabriel Joseph contributed 11 points and 3 rebounds.

As Warriors Shot down Union Bank 78-73 in OT

The encounter between Vmobile Challenge defending champion, Union Bank basketball club and city rival Dodan Warriors basketball club is one game that pairs experience and youthful exuberant against themselves.

With the lose of most reliable hands in the Warriors fold, the Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd) led management of the Dodan warriors Project fell back to its Warriors Academy to shop for replacement which it got in abundant but whether will be able to adapt to the nitty-gritty of the premier league is another ball game.

Their week-one pairing against Union bank has generated mixed reaction from a cross section of basketball fans whom before the first jump-ball between Ebun Comets another side with young team and old war horse Customs which the former won by 8 points margin many had thought that the trio of Comets Warriors and Islanders would kiss their canvas in their respective league opener against a more experience a solid sides as the Customs and Union Bank.

But the reverse was the case when Comets first humbled their more experience foe last Saturday to the bewilderment of many basketball followers and the surprised 78-73 points win of Warriors over Union Bank proved rather more surprising even to the Warriors players who could not believed what they achieved on that cold Sunday night before a capacity crowd who thronged the Sports Hall of the Lagos National Stadium to watch what remains of the team.

The youthful Warriors side had started the game in their usual aggressive style of play winning the first quarter 19-18 points but went down to the more experience Union Bank team who picked the second quarter 11-09 points for a 29-28 points lead at the end of the first half.

The third quarter saw a more determined Warriors coming back strongly into the game winning in style with 22-21 points to even scores at 50 points apiece to set up a big showdown for the fourth and final quarter.

The Union Bank team relying much on the experince play of former international Ayodeji Samuel, Sola Alayande skipper Kingsley Omoenu to rattle the young Warriors side who could only bank on the leadership role provided by Chris Nomigo but were forced into over time play when guard Seyi Ayodele took an all important buzzer shot to tie the game at 66 points apiece.

The resultant five minutes over time was like the tonic the Warriors boys needed as they out play the Union Bank team in almost all department of the game of 12-07 points for a cumulative score of 78-73 points.

Union Bank Ayodeji Samuel led his team and the entire floor with 18 points, 8 rebounds, skipper Kingsley Omoenu contributed 15 points and 2 assist, Shola Alayande and Moses Dawodu added 13 points each while Anyebe Alexandra had his name on the scorere chart for the Bankers with 10 points and 2 rebounds.

On the Warriors side it was guard Seyi Ayodele who led his other teammates on the scorers chart with 16 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists, youthful forward Edwin added 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds while another rookie Michael scored a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds.

And from the Savannah Conference: Plateau Peaks recording the very first away win in the real sence of the pairing beating AHIP Giant basketball club of Kano 60-51 points

while old war horse kano Pillars defeated visiting Yelwa Hawks of Bauchi 53-32 points.

Veteran basketball coach,Oliver B. Johnson was enthiastic last weekend in Warri,shortly after the second round matches in the ongoing inter-Peace zone league matches organised by his pet project, the Basketball for Peace Initiative (BB4P).

OBJ who has become the cynosure of all eyes in Warri with his vintage Volkswagen Beetle was full of joy from the response of youths in the oil rich but crisis prone Niger Delta, to the game of basketball and the raw talent on display. ‘This place is just great and no number of courts (Peace Zone) will be enough for these kids the way things are going, we must get more of the courts, he said at the Don Domingos College Peace zone.

Johnson who had just watched the youths of Daudu under coach Eric Ozoro chalked up their second victory over the Don Domingos male team,while their female counterparts saved the day by beating the Ladies from Daudu. In the morning in Sapele, the host lads under coach Peter Broadrick clinched their first victory after losing to Daudu in Warri a week earlier.

They beat Mereogun youths under Kingsley Aguara, who the week before beat Don Domingos in Mereogun. One sad point however for OBJ is the inability of Sapele to raise a female team the only zone so far not having a female squad.

According to the Delta State Coordinator for Basketball for Peace, Charles Arubi, the possibilities for having more peace zones are very high achievable. ‘I am looking at the possibilities of having as much as sixty zones by next year anr right now I am working out the strategies which I will sell to other members of the state basketball associatin immediately after our inauguration’.

“Delta is unique in every sense and there is the urgent need to create more avenus for the youths to express themselves and no cost is too much to achieve this as the cost of violence will be much more”, he said.

“The 3on3 tournament scheduled for this weekend in Mereogun will open up a new vista for the youths and we look forward to doing more for them. We are therefore appealing to the communities, local and state governments and the various companies operating in the Delta to be part of this project for the benefit of all.
Youths who are fully engaged cannot be a source of nuisance to the and we owe the youths the duty to provide play ground for them since they have a right to play”, Arubi concluded.

Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos Saturday at the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos proved bookmakers wrong when it posted a 58-50 points victory over Customs basketball club.

Many basketball pundits had predicted a hard game for the Coach Ayo Bakare wards due to the young nature of the team but the lads confronted their much experienced opponent that parades some of the most experienced players in the league by winning three of the four quarters (09-06, 11-10, 12-18 and 26-16) to send a warning signal to other team who might want to doubt their ability and capability to do well in the league this season.

The game had started with both sides being cautious with Customs forward Lucky Abubakar recording the first basket, a three pointer in the 8th minutes of the first quarter but the lead was cut short by rampaging Comets shooting guard Rasheed Bello who replied with same points to even scores, the young Comets team comprises players who are having their first feel of what it takes to play at the premier league level went on to cut the Customs players to size with beautiful moves.

Rookie, Frank Benjamin-Eze was a delight to watch, the 6 foot 11 inches tall center picked up valuable rebounds for the former Nigeria king of the Court.

Customs points guard Daniel Dawodu was the shining star in the Customs fold little wonder when he end the encounter with 14 points and 2 rebounds the lad who is from a basketball family played one of his best game in many season but with little support to compliment his effort.

Comets stand-in captain Rasheed Bello led his team on the scorers chart with 16 points 7 rebounds followed by energetic Okechukwu Anonye who contributed 12 points and 9 rebounds, returning guard Michael Ohiero added 10 points and 3 rebounds while rookie Benjamin-Eze had 9 points and 8 rebounds to his credit.

Technical Director of the Nigeria Basketball Federation Dr. Adamu Ahmed says the commencement of proceeding Saturday was a big relief for the federation, sponsor and all stakeholders.

He promised the cancelled road trip for this season would return next season, which he says, would commence in October/November this year.

Dr. Ahmed avered that the present League Advisory Committee will transform into the much talked about league committee that will see to the day-to-day running of the league while the NBBF board will only serve as meeting point for the game.

Four matches are on the billing today (Sunday) with two each holding in each of the conferences (Atlantic and Savannah).

In the Atlantic conference visiting Delta Force basketball club of Asaba will confront rejuvenated Lagos Islanders basketball club while Union Bank basketball club and Dodan Warriors basketball will lock horn in a local derby.

The two Savannah conference games will take place at the Sports Hall of the Kano Stadium with AHIP Giant taking to the court first against Plateau Peaks in what promises to be a repeat of what was witnesse in the encounter between Comets and Customs as the AHIP team parades a bunch young and inexperience players but will rely on gut and determination to upstaged their much experience guest from Jos.

The second encounter will be between Kano Pillars and Yelwa Hawks from bauchi.

Customs roster for the encounter
4. Daniel Dawodu
5.Muhna Morrison
6. Samson John
7. Tony Wuyep
8. Harry Francis
9. Lucky Abubakar
10. Andrew Ananin
11. Jabiu Lawal
12. Orji Leonard
13. Borokini Dare
14. Emeka Okenwa
15. Gambo Usman

Comets roster for the encounter
4. Michael Ohiero
5. Abdulwahab Yakubu
6. Deji Egbeyemi
7. Rashhed Bello
9. Orseer Ikyator
11. Okechukwu Anonye
13. Malik Tella
14. Frank Benjamin-Eze
15. George Ehiagwina

By Seinde Ikuesan

Hello fellows,

We are tomorrow having Dunk Malaria an intiative to try reduce and create awareness of Malaria in Africa and Kenya in general.Malaria is a fast killing disease in Africa even than HIV/AIDS especially for young children below the age of 5yrs,so I and my group will go around having pple shooting to the hoops for the Dunk Malaria out of Africa while having some basketball games in schools,college,universtisties,clubs and institutions while creating awreness of malaria in Kenya.We will be at Nairobi University tomorrow at 2pm then go to USIU in the morning and go to st.George's Girls,Precious Blood girls,Alliance Boys,Starehe boys and Girls,Moi Girls,Upper Hill Boys,Uhuru Sec,Huruma Girls,Buruburu,Kenya High,Mangu,Limuru girls,Kaaga girls, Igogi Girls,Kinaa Sec etc.We are going to let the schools know the danger and safety ways of reducing and avoiding Malaria like keeping our environment clean,clearing the bushes around the compound,stagnant waters,having the environment safe etc.

Then on wednesday we will have a serious of games in schools eg USIU playing St.George's,Precious blood playing Africa Nazarene University,Moi Girls playing Catholic University,Allinance boys playing Kenya Polytechnic etc.Also I have forgotten that on 22nd March 2006 its my birthday,am growing young imagine I'll be just .... old
plse its just around or btw 30 to 40 or 40 to 50 aha aha.Bye and let me know your opinion okay.God bless you and I'll try not to forget my birthday on wed 22nd March.

Also we will have some NBA players coming to kenya in June to distribute mosquito nets and create awareness on malaria and finalize with tournament for three days with countries from Europe,USA,Africa participating.Thank you be blessed and remember KEEP OUR PLANET CLEAN AND SAFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yours in Environment & Sports,
Juma Kent,
Manager-Footprints Kenya.

FEDERATION of Uganda Basketball Association technical committee has called on all coaches and interested parties to register for the 3-day coaching course that gets underway today at the YMCA. The local body said that a coaching course had been organised for players, coaches, interested candidates and former coaches.

It is clearly a season of basketball for Nigeria as slam and dunk action begin for Nigeria at home and abroad starting from today. While the male and female national players face India and Malaysia respectively today at the Commonwealth Games, the men at home are action programmed with the Vmobile Premier League taking the first jump ball at the National Stadium, Lagos tomorrow.

After a very long rest from the Commonwealth Basketball competition, the national teams are returning to action with the Melbourne 2006 Games, which got flagged off by Queen Elizabeth on Wednesday. Nigerians may know very little about India in terms of basketball but everyone has a first time opportunity to see India basketball today.

Before the male team boarded the long flight to Melbourne, they expressed their scanty knowledge about India basketball. On paper, the Nigerian team is expected to overcome their opponents even with the slightest margin but many analysts say it is best to wait until the buzzer before making any statement.

The real work for the guys will come on Sunday when they step out against hosts and basketball powerhouse, Australia. Like Nigeria, the hosts are not fielding their very best crop of players but still tradition counts in favour of the Oceanic nation.

Before the players departed Murtala Muhammed Airport for Melbourne the men's Coach Sani Ahmed told THISDAYSport that they were not underrating any opponent.

"We are neither going to look down on the so-called unknown teams nor get worried over the big names. At that we are playing for medal and that we hope to achieve," he said.

The ladies, who arrived Melbourne as African champions, are playing Malaysia in a very testy game. If they over come Malaysia today, they will be in a better shape to face Malta on Sunday. The Nigerian teams are generally tipped to finish within the medal zone.

"The event is all about medals are that we very well understand," Scott Nnaji of the female team said.

Back home, it is a classic start to the Vmobile basketball season tomorrow at the National Stadium. The Customs, which will be playing without Abdulrahman Mohammed who is away at Melbourne, will take on the Comets for size. The game, which will start at 4.00pm, will certainly bring back memories of the team's past encounter. Both teams have a way of cutting down each other at crucial times.

On paper, though, the Comets look the team to take the full points this weekend. A different form of result will be judged a surprise. And on Sunday it is a double clash at both the Atlantic and Savannah Conferences. In Lagos, the Islanders are hosts to Delta Force while the Union Bank team will tackle the Dodan Warriors.The Islanders/Delta clash becomes quite interesting following the results of the last Vmobile Challenge in Lagos. A rag-tag Delta Force upset Warriors and fans are hoping they can prove difficult to the former champions Islanders managed by Toyin Sonoiki.

The Savannah teams will wait until Sunday before they have their first taste action. And for a start, the dunks will be at the Kano gym hosts AHIP will play Plateau Peaks in one game while veterans Kano Pillars play Yelwa Hawks in the second match. Both games, like that in Lagos will be played in the same venue.

Rwanda's basketball association has created a new tournament branded "Preseason basketball tournament", that kicks off this Saturday morning at Amahoro courts - Remera.

The tournament will be taking place annually two weeks prior to the national basketball league, attracting both first and second division clubs.
The federation's technical adviser Eric Karuhije has confirmed the event. "The federation executive committee has set up and confirmed that the new event kick off this Saturday," he said.
He added that the event will run for two weekends in succession.
He said the objective was to avail teams an opportunity to build up for the national league.
Although the newly created tournament has failed to attract sponsors, the federation has vowed to keep the event going despite its meagre funds.
According to the official, the clubs interested to contest in the preseason tourney will pay a participation fee of 10,000 Rwandan francs only.

Reigning Premier league champion, Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos and Atlantic conference rival, Customs basketball club will Saturday light up the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos in the opening game of the 2005/'06 VMobile premier league. Comets parading a set of untested players is determined to give the border boys as Customs are called a run for their experience and money. The coached Ayo Bakare tutored boys said they are not scared by the experience the Customs players will bring to bear when both side clash in what promises to be a mother of all match come this Saturday. Oseer Ikyato recently acquired from Niger Potters of Minna and whose only competitive game so far was the 2005 VMobile/NBBF Challenge contest says he can not wait for the referees' to sound their whistle for the commencement of the encounter. "I am really looking forward to get into real competitive basketball match and I'm prepared to give my very best in that game against Customs and other teams in the league." "We have train very hard for the season to dunk off and I was happy when the cheering news came that the league would finally take-off," Ikyato said. Other pairing for the weekend include Islanders of Lagos against Delta Force basketball of Asaba and the local derby between Union Bank and Dodan Warriors basketball club in the Atlantic conference. And in the Savannah conference AHIP Giant basketball club of Kano will be at home in their real first taste of premier league action against Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos, while old war horse Kano Pillars will take to the court against Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi also at the Sports Hall of the Kano stadium immediately after the AHIP/Peaks encounter. All matches are fixed for Sunday.
0

Reigning Premier league champion, Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos and Atlantic conference rival, Customs basketball club will Saturday light up the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos in the opening game of the 2005/'06 VMobile premier league. Comets parading a set of untested players is determined to give the border boys as Customs are called a run for their experience and money. The coached Ayo Bakare tutored boys said they are not scared by the experience the Customs players will bring to bear when both side clash in what promises to be a mother of all match come this Saturday. Oseer Ikyato recently acquired from Niger Potters of Minna and whose only competitive game so far was the 2005 VMobile/NBBF Challenge contest says he can not wait for the referees' to sound their whistle for the commencement of the encounter. "I am really looking forward to get into real competitive basketball match and I'm prepared to give my very best in that game against Customs and other teams in the league." "We have train very hard for the season to dunk off and I was happy when the cheering news came that the league would finally take-off," Ikyato said. Other pairing for the weekend include Islanders of Lagos against Delta Force basketball of Asaba and the local derby between Union Bank and Dodan Warriors basketball club in the Atlantic conference. And in the Savannah conference AHIP Giant basketball club of Kano will be at home in their real first taste of premier league action against Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos, while old war horse Kano Pillars will take to the court against Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi also at the Sports Hall of the Kano stadium immediately after the AHIP/Peaks encounter. All matches are fixed for Sunday.
0

Yesterday, we had the semi finals for the en in the Republic Cup 2006 and we had 2 great game.

In the first match, we had the the current champions, the Real, which played against the USBBRH, who came up 4th last year in the league. The USBBRH gave a good response to the Real in the first 3 quarters, but the maturity and experience of the champions allow them to accelerate in the last quarter of the game to finally win the match on the score of 76 to 64. It should be noted that player Thierry Julie gratified the public of some great slam dunk and especially one of the best that I have ever seen with a dunk on a rebound which showed the great talent of this player. The Real once again advance to the final of this tournament.

Their opponent will be the Flippers, who easily swept out the CDB in the second semi - final on the large score of 92 to 66. The current vice champions played the game with a fast pace and great defense and the CDB, even though were leading at half time 45 - 41, could not hold the rhythm of the game and the Flippers won the match on the score of 92 to 66. Pascal Prayag scored 36 points and Ronnie Nagloo 25 for the Flippers while Frederic Dubois scored 24 for the CDB.

It should be noted that the match had some problems as players of the CDB was doing flagrant foul and it was sad to see the coach of CDB encouraging his players to commit these harsh fouls on the Flippers players so as to injured some Flippers players and prevent then from playing the final. It is really ashamed to see a national coach, who have coach the junior national basket - ball team in the last african cup to act like this....

Still, we will now have once more, a great final between the Mahebourg Flippers, vice champion of Mauritius, against the Real, current champion of Mauritius. It is scheduled on Sunday 26th March 2006 at the Phoenix Gymnasium at 17hr00.

So, basket ball fans, stay tune to africa basket for a great final...

Till then, see ya all.

Real 76 v/s USBBRH 64

Flippers 92 v/s CDB 66

From
Pascal Prayag
I Love this game.

Invincible Eleven continued her supermacy over traditional arch rival Mighty Barrolle on March 15 when she dragged her 91-77 points in continuation of the Liberia Basketball Federation on going first division league. Earlier on that day, Sacbase went down to T-Chons 72-65 points in the second division. On march 13, St. Paul Crushers went down to Heats 59-53 points in the third didision and in the female category, Angel Shooters whipped Timberwolves 46-40 points while in the first division Mighty Barrolle pinned Bushrod Bull 79-75 points. On march 12, Supreme Sisters lost heavly to K-Delta 28-119 in the female category while in the first division last year league runnerup NPA Pythons again lost to Uhuru Kings 51-59 points

A total of six local basketball teams have so far confirmed participation in the forthcoming Makerere Open.

Charging Rhinos, Kololo Bush Courts, KCC Lions and defending champions Sadolin Power, together with women giants KCC Leopards, Crane High and league queens A-I Challenge have confirmed entry.

This 37th edition of basketball bonanza, which also acts as a curtain riser to the MTN Basketball League will take place between March 24-26.Regional institutions - United States International University (USIU), Kenyatta University and Butare University (Rwanda) were invited.

Former league champions Sadolin Power will be defending their men's seniors' title while KCC Leopards are the women defending champions.

The delegates of the Street Basketball Association (SBA) from the United States of America recently conferred on the President of the republic, Dr Alhagi Yahya Jammeh, the SBA Person of the Year Award for 2005.

They also gave President Jammeh a special certificate for his untiring commitment and unflinching support for the development of youth, empowerment of women, support for sports, particularly basketball in the country.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Jerrod Mustaf, CEO and founder of the renowned SBA said: "I will thank the President for inviting the SBA to The Gambia. President Jammeh has accorded us the privilege to come back to the land of our ancestors, and we are really grateful for the hospitality he accorded to us during our stay." He also hails President Jammeh for his development efforts, particularly in the areas of education, women empowerment, and sports.

The vice President, Dr Ajaratou Isatou Njie-Saidy, described SBA's presence in The Gambia as building the bridge between the USA and The Gambia through the unifying tool of sports. She commended Jerrod Mustaf and his team for their visiting The Gambia, and their quest to revive the game of basketball in The Gambia, which is considered as the haven of Africa.

Reacting to their magnanimous gesture, the President of the Republic, Dr Alhagi Yahya Jammeh said: "Apart from sports, I want young African-Americans to acquire first-hand information about Africa and what is being said about the continent."He said he will work hard to revive the game of basketball in the country and would like to see basketball registering its successes in the international arena in a few years' time. But he pointed out that success can only be achieved if there are interest, inspiration and commitment, hard work and dedication.

President Jammeh urged the SBA members to remain united and work together in the spirit of brotherhood and added that the SBA award will serve as an inspiration for him to support sports all the time. As a show of his commitment, President Jammeh has rehabilitated the Manneh Sillah Memorial Lawn, Gambia Senior Secondary School lawn and a basketball court in State House.

The Basketball for Peace, which began three weeks ago in Warri Delta State, will take on a new format this weekend with a 3on3 shootout for the over twenties.

According to the national coordinator for BB4P, Coach Oliver B Johnson, the programme will involve all basketball players in Warri and it's environ as a means of having everybody involved in the game of basketball.

'The potentials for growth of the game in Warri is great and the players must be comfortable in playing 3on3 after two weeks of full court play which so far has seen the Daudu Peace zone male team winning its two matches, the veteran coach revealed.

Coach OBJ, who has spent 35 years in Nigeria, is currently in the restive Delta trying to establish a Peace zone in conflict areas as a means of further achieving peace in Delta state using basketball as the focus for the youths in the areas.

So far, four full courts (peace zones) are in operation in Don Domingos College, Edjeba, Mereogun, Daudu and Sapele, while the Ugbori/Ekurede court will come into operation this week.

Already, one half court has been established at the Miller Waterside while awaiting approval from the Nigerian Customs for the full court since the site falls within its property.

Half courts are expected to be established in other parts of the city close to the first Marine Gate and along water Resources Road, as well as any community that wants to buy into the project.

The BB4P project sponsored by the USAID under its Conflict Abatement Through Local Mitigation programme is aimed at getting the youths of conflict areas to understand that conflicts can be managed through dialogue, that education is vital for personal and environmental development.

The programme began four weeks ago with a four-day conflict resolution seminar attended by over 40 youths drawn from across Warri, Sapele and the creeks.The basketball for Peace Initiative has already being established in four other states, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau and Rivers States.

Delta is the fifth state in this first phase of the programme aimed at making youths the fulcrum of everlasting peace within the country.

Aloysius Byamukama
KAMPALA

KAMPALA International University (KIU) men's side is targeting Najja High's stars Eric Nyamai and Salim Ali as a re-enforcement for the new 2006 MTN league season.
Team coach Nimrod Kaboha told Daily Monitor that the two S.6 leavers are his first target in order to bring back the team's ‘league ‘ giants' status.

"They are currently out of Uganda for their holidays but I had talked to them before they left. When they come back, it will be the first thing to initiate them into the team," Kaboha said.

Nyamai and Salim helped guide the High School boys' historical wins over top league sides Charging Rhinos, KIU and eventual champions Marines in the closing stages of last season.

However, KIU faces stiff competition from Marines who also want the services of the two players.
KIU had a poor show last season and were only saved from relegation by the league expansion which forced FUBA to increase the top conference teams to 10, thus retaining relegated teams.

Sensational Isaac Afidra will lead the side against top Yellow Max rivals Marines, Sadolin Power, Warriors, Rhinos, Miracle, Falcons and the newly promoted Gulu Hawks and Livingstone.

Deng Patrick and Charles Wandera left the team for further studies in the US.
The women side KIU Rangers has signed Tewin Ssemakula and Aisha Nalumansi. The league tips off on March 31.

FIBA Africa has nominated a Kenyan referee to officiate at the 2006 World Championship for Women in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Vitalis Gode got the nod from the continental body and will officiate during the championships slated for September in the South American city.

While making the revelation on Wednesday, Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) chairman, Agina Wesonga, said the official, who is also KBF secretary, has made the country proud. Africa will be represented in the global show by African champions Nigeria and runners-up Senegal.

The draw done last month saw Nigeria placed in pool "C" alongside powerhouse and reigning champions USA, Russia and China. Senegal is grouped in pool "B" with Australia, Lithuania and Canada.

The rest of the pools are: "A" — Brazil, Spain, South Korea and Argentina; "D" — Czech Republic, France, Cuba and Taiwan.

CRANE High School Kitintale and Makerere University won the first edition of the Family Planning Association of Uganda (FPAU) basketball tournament finals played at the YMCA Courts on Sunday.

Crane girls humiliated experienced Amazon 41-25 with Florence 'fofo' Kalume scoring a game high 16 points.

In the men's seniors, Makerere University needed a last second Ben Komakech's free throw for a slim 64-62 win over Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono.

Michael Kariuki, Allan Tawodda and David Kiberu made 14, 13 and 10 points respectively, while Edward Bongomin and Peter Ssenfuka were Mukono's top scorers with 17 and 11 points respectively.

MAXIFIX PROSS finally suffered their first defeat of the second half of the Harare Basketball Association league when they fell 89-54 to Kingdom Cavaliers in a match at the University of Zimbabwe at the weekend.

Cavaliers' Fungai Matsika led his side to the destruction of Pross coming out of the game as the top scorer. Matsika helped his team to victory with 19 points and Blessing Chidumu contributed 11 points while team-mate Taurai Chitsinde weighed in with 15 points. The win ensured that Cavaliers stayed within reach of the championship as they are only two points behind leaders Cameo who have so far collected 38 points. Cavaliers are on third position with 36 points from 20 outings -- a place behind Jewels who have 37 points and also have a game in hand.

Pross responded through Steve Mudawarima who scored 16 points while Brian Karemba and Tonderai Murimwa scored 12 and eight points respectively. Across town at Richwood Park, Addison Chiware's Jewels were also in top form as they went on to defeat Mufakose Hawks 67-33. Simbarashe Murama led Jewels to a memorable victory top scoring with 23 points while the hardworking Artwell Dzikiti, who was active in picking up rebounds in both d efensive and offensive, added 13 points. Former Giants player Michael Banda, who joined the team three weeks ago, found himself scoring 15 points. But life was not the same for Hawks who found the going tough as none of the players managed to score double figures.

Results A-League: Faithwear Jammers 51, Gentlemen's Association 59; All Stars 20, Black Rhinos 0; Golden Spurs 69, Highdon Raiderz 89; Jewels 67, Mufakose Hawks 33; Mbare Bulls 25, Cameo 111; Celtics 76, Golden Spurs 57; Varsity Leopards 59, UZ Stars 37; Kingdom Cavaliers 89, Maxifix Pross 54. B-League: Airforce Falcons 42, Sigauke 46; Pistons 95, Nuggets 65; City Wolves 31, Crocodiles 24; Nyamidzi Blazes 20, Mufakose Hawks 0; Kingdom Cavaliers 0, Stormers 20; Richwood 20, Pistons 0. Women: Kingdom Cavaliers 63, Stormers 32; Jewels 90, Mufakose Hawks 24; UZ Stars 33, Kingdom Cavaliers 44.

By Paul Munyuki

Last results

Al-ittihad 84 : 68 AL AHLI TREPOLI
AL WAHDA 42 : 67 Alshabab

Standing

Group A
1Alshabab 22 pts
2Al-ittihad 22
3AL WAHDA 17
4AL MADENA 16
5AL AHLI TREPOLI 13

Group B

1AL AHLIBENGHAZI 19
2Al-Hilal 18
3Al-Nasser 15
4AL MOROG 15
5AL TAHADE 11

The Kenya national championship throws off on April 1 with men's and women's champions Ulinzi Warriors and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) stepping onto the podium on the opening day.

According to the fixtures released by Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) fixtures secretary Steve Nyakina, there will be a total of 13 matches on card in the opening weekend.

Ulinzi have been given what looks an easy opening date as they face off against newly promoted International Christian Center (ICC) on the opening Saturday.

KPA women on the other hand face the crunch as they host East and Central Africa Club champions, Sprite Storms, at the Makande Welfare gymnasium on the same day.

Last years runners up Co-operative Bank of Kenya have a date with Kenya University "Pirates" as KCB Lions are drawn against University of Nairobi "Terrorists".

Nakuru Club will also welcome United States International University (USIU) side that has vowed to return to wining ways this year.

Kenya Railways will launch their quest for a second title when they confront Unites States International University (USIU) as Coast Youth (CYC)take on Stormers.

In the lower division, Kisumu Lakeside make their long awaited debut at home against Moi Air Base (MAB)while 4Christ meet Don Bosco.Mennonites face off against Lomboritz.

Other matches on card on the opening weekend will see Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) champions Strathmnore University take on Java Warriors.

Fixtures April 1:
Strathmore v Java Warriors, 4Christ v Don Bosco, Jkuat v Lioness, Ulinzi v ICC, Co-op v KU Pirates, Kisumu v MAB, KPA v Storms, CYC v Stormers, Nakuru Club v USIU.

Fixtures April 2:
NPC v Jkuat, Mennonites v Lomboritz, Railways v USIU, KCB Lions v Terrorists.

Avi Cenna International School G.R.A Ikeja and Lebanese Community School, Yaba have both emerged winner of the 7th Ivy Basketball League for private secondary schools in Lagos State and its environs.

Avi Cenna who won the league title for the first time proved book-makers wrong when it came from initial first half scores of 15-09 points deficit to rattled the University of Lagos International School who had earlier beaten the Avi Cenna boys during the group game.

The coach Yinka Oyewumi tutored Avi Cenna boys rose to the challenges to tie the game at fulltime of 24 points apiece after posting a 15-09 points win in the second half of the explosive encounter.

The over-time provided the Avi Cenna team backed by its vociferous home fans of both pupils and a handful of parents who matched the ISL boys strength for strength with point guard Mukaila Abiola son of late Nigerian politician Bashorun MKO Abiola running ring round the ISL team for a final score line of 32-31 points victory.

In the girls category, Lebanese Community School, Yaba also recorded another surprise win over top rated ADRAO international School, Victoria-Island.

The ADRAO team who are basking in the ability of the Bello twin sisters (Belinda and Blessing) who have been consistent in all their group game went home disappointed as they failed in the final test to the Lebanese girls coached by Ganiyu Sumonu.

Vivian Fowler Memorial College and Whitesand School placed third in the girls and boys categories.

Avi Cenna again won the junior boys team title at the expense of The Bells and Ifako International School who placed second and third respectively.

Atlantic Hall simply known as A-Hall won the junior female title while Ifako International School and Indian Language Schools followed in that order.

Avi Cenna point guard Abiola was adjudged the senior boys Most Valuable Player, his junior team compatriot Stephen Odobeatu was the MVP in the junior boys category, Busola Binitie of Lebanese Community School won the MVP title in senior girls cadre while little Ifenyi Stephanie Eze was the MVP in the junior girls category.

Coaches were, however, not left out in the award categories as Lebanese Community School coach, Ganiyu Sumonu was voted the best among his peers in the senior girls category, Peter Makanjuola of Whitesand School was voted as the best senior boys team coach, The Bells Mrs. Oladiran as best coach in the girls Classic category, while Indian Language School's Oyewole Adebiyi was adjudged the best coach in the boys' team Classic division.

Tosa Otubu and Mahmoud Fowdeh won the male and female most improved players award, Mayday College won the Best Behaved Team award in the girls category and the Indian Language School won in the male category with The Punch Newspaper emerging as the best newspaper in terms of coverage given to the league.

This week end we had 2 matches that took place for the Republic Cup 2006 and it involves only the women team. The matches was scheduled this Saturday at gymnasium le '1er Fevrier'.

The first match was between the CJSOI Team and the Mer Rouge Team, and even though the Mer Rouge Team had the advantage of playing home, they were no match for the young team who will soon represent Mauritus in the Regional Competition. The CJSOI won the match on the score of 47 to 30.

In the second duel, the Champions Hoop made an easy win on the CNFBB BY winning the match by the large score of 91 to 27. The Hoop are busy preparing themselves for the CCOI tournament which will soon took place in Mayotte.

Both the Hoop and CJSOI now advances to the next level of the competition. The CJSOI will now face the current vice - champions, the CSSC and the winner will face Hoop on the final.

Tomorrow, 2 matches are scheduled for the Men at the Phoenix Gymnasium. The first match will be the current champions, the Real against the EDB @ 18hr00, and at 20hr00, the CSSC will have much to do against the CDB.

So, basket - ball fans, once more, just keep connected to africa basket and be aware of the latest results in this Republic Cup.

Till then, see ya all!!!

CJSOI 47 v/s Mer Rouge 30

Hoop 91 v/s CNFBB 27

From
Pascal Prayag
I Love This Game.

MTN league teams face a Shs 40,000 fine for failing to beat the Friday March 10 registration deadline. All the Division I sides have not cleared their registration dues for the new 2006 season slated to tip off on March 31.

Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) had postponed the exercise from February 23, in order to enable teams prepare.

When contacted, FUBA technical chairman Mr. Yunus Nkutu told Daily Monitor that the regulation still stands.

"We still stand by the regulation and teams that failed to register on Friday, must pay a fine of Shs 40,000," said Nkutu.

They are required to pay Shs100,000 for registration and Shs20,000 for the referees/coaches clinic.

By Friday, only three Division II teams, Makerere Youth Heaters, Jinja Flammers and debutants Druu had cleared.

Nkutu also said that all teams must send a coach and a referee for the clinic that shall run from March 16-19 at YMCA before the league starts at Lugogo Indoor Stadium.

"It's a technical regulation and no team(s) shall be allowed to register next year without a qualified referee," Nkutu added.

All teams according to the new constitution must have registered players with licenses together with a qualified referee.A total of eight new sides are to join the league, which will expand to a record 48 teams. This has prompted the Federation to increase relegation teams to three in the top divisions.

By Aloysius Byamukama

Yellow Max and Yellow Go conferences have also been increased to 10 teams each.

Results from this week end in the women compionship:

Kingdom Cavaliers 63 - Stormers 32
Jewels 90 - Mufakose Hawks 24
U.Z. Stars(33 - Kingdom Cavaliers 45

Results from this week end

Kingdom Cavaliers 89 Maxifix Pross 54
Varsity Leopards 59 - U.Z.Stars 37
Jewels 67 - Mufakose Hawks 33
Celtics 76 - Golden Spurs 57
Mbare Bulls 25 – Cameo 111
Golden Spurs 69 - Highdon Raiders 89
Kambuzuma All Stars 20- Black Rhinos 0
Faith Wear Jammers 51 - Gentlemen’s Association 59


And the standing

Cameo 18-2
Jewels 16-5
Kingdom Cavaliers 16-4
Celtics 15-6
Mufakose Hawks 14-8
Varsity Leopards 16-3
Maxifix Pross 13-8
Highdon Raiderz 13-7 1 forfeit
Golden Spurs 6-17
UZ Stars 8-12
Faith Wear Jammers 8-11 1 forfeit
South Central 7-11 1 forfeit
Gentlemen's Association 3-17 1 forfeit
Mbare Bulls 3-17 2 forfeit
Black Rhinos 4-10 6 forfeit
Kambuzuma All Stars 2-10 4 forfeit

12 players from Nigeria in the NCAA first division

Akin AKINGBALA 2,06m sr Clemson
Uche ECHEFU 2,06m fr Florida State
Lewis FADIQUE 2,08m sr La Salle
Idong IBOK 2,11m fr Michigan
Ben NWACHUKWU 2,06m so Columbia
Benson EGEMONYE 2,08m fr Northeastern
Fred OGUNS 2,01m sr Western Illinois
Eze SAMUEL 2,08m so Western Illinois
Dinma ODIAKOSA 2,03m fr Illinois State
Femi IBIKUNLE 2,06m jr TCU
Churchill ODIA 1,98m so Oregon
Desmond NWOKE 2,03m jr Idaho

Only one players from Gabon in NCAA first division.
Stephane Lasme 2,03m jr Massachussets

March 31
Men
Marines vs Falcons
Women
A-I Challenge vs Mak Sparks

MTN Basketball League defending champions Nkumba University Marines have been drawn to play former champions Falcons in the league opener due on Friday, March 31 at Lugogo Indoor Stadium.
Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) technical chairman Mr Yunus Nkutu said: "We had to bring it back to Friday, March 31 because it was more convenient. But the venue remains the same." The game original date was Saturday, April 1.

The two sides opened last season.s league and the then defending champions Falcons had an easy 67-57 win over the University lads.

The second round proved a different encounter. A memorable four minutes of Norman Blick genius stole the show. He entered when his side was trailing 41-47 but his 10 points kept the team on course to their first ever title.
But Nkumba will be without him, as he is currently out in Qatar playing semi-professional basketball.

In the ladies opener, traditional rivals Makerere Sparks and defending champions A-I Challenge meet each other.
2003 champions Sparks have been boosted by the return of former Most Valuable Player (MVP) Florence Akello

SADOLIN Power club has recalled shooting guard Marvin Keronga to the team ahead of the foundational national anti-AIDS basketball tournament that gets underway today at the YMCA and Makerere. Keronga who was slapped with a one-game suspension after his involvement in a fight with Warriors’ Steven Okias.

The Republic Cup continued last night and 2 matches were scheduled at the Phoenix Gymnasium. The first match was between the USBBRH and the youngs of the CNFBB. As expected, the USBBRH won the match with great ease in front of the inexperience but talented CNFBB. The final score was 114 to 32 in favour of the USBBRH who are qualified for the next phase of the tournament.

As for the second match, it was a bit more interesting as the 2 teams were nearly of the same level, and involves the EDB v/s ASVP. The last time that these 2 teams met, the ASVP won the match but this time the EDB took their revenge and with their usual fighting spirit, won the match on the score of 56 to 32. The EDB are now qualified for the next phase of the competition and as for the ASVP, they will have to work harder to make a good impression in the league as they did last year winning the most improved team award in the league.

A special note to the player Kenny Nagloo who played his first official match for the ASVP after a long period of absence.

The next matches for the Republic Cup will now involve the Women Team this Saturday at 'Le 1er Fevrier Gymnasium'. On Saturday 11 March, @ 16 00 the CJSOI Team will play against the Mer Rouge Team and at 18 00, the Champions Hoop will play against the youngs of the CNFBB.

So basket - ball fans keep connected to us and be aware of the latest update in Mauritius Basket - Ball!!!

Till then, see ya all.

From
Pascal
I Love This Game

The Vmobile Basketball League gets underway with the media launch of the competition holding today in Lagos. The programme scheduled to hold at the Silverbird Galleria is billed to start at 4.00pm with the President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and also Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Services, Mr. Jacob Gyang Buba in attendance alongside other basketball stakeholders. The Chief Executive Officer of Vmobile Willem Swart will lead the sponsors' team.

The high launch event comes on the backdrop of the renovation works going on across the country for the league take off. The Head Division, PR Sponsorship and Events, Emeka Oparah explained that the vision of Vmobile is to take the game in Nigeria to the very top.

"It is clear from everything we are involved that we take it to the highest level. The vision is to take this game to the highest level it can be in the country. The league will be played like it had never been done in this country and that explains why we are upgrading the facilities in venues across the country."

Vmobile re-worked the Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos before the Vmobile Challenge held last year but has stretched the repairs this time to Bauchi, Kano, Minna, and Asaba where the league will be played. THISDAYSports gathered that apart from the N35 million for the league itself, the company might have spent similar amount independently to leverage the league.

Vmobile has also re-affirmed their commitment to the league. Both sides restated their positions last week when Buba led a delegation of the NBBF to Vmobile Corporate offices in Victoria Island, Lagos.

"We are happy with the strides the NBBF is taking on the league and it is good state that Vmobile states with league and several other basketball programmes in the country for a long, long time to come," Oparah said.

For the media launch today, the programme will also have players and coaches of the entire teams in the league in attendance. There are 13 teams for the league this season as it was with last season.The programme this evening will give details on how the league will be played and the monetary rewards for the teams and players featuring in the system. The teams are taking 20% of the N35million sponsorship package aside from the cash prizes for individuals and clubs at the end of the play offs.

The delayed 2005/06 season will finally take the first jump ball by next weekend with gradual ceremonial processes running again from Monday. However, the next season has been earmarked to take off by October and terminate by May in order to synchronise with other major leagues across the world.

In the last game of group AGF beat KCBC 57 – 56 in Camp Kigali stadium.
Kigali City boys lead the first quarter 15-21 and shortly the second 15-14 points. AGF players won the 3rd quarter with 14 against 10 points of KCBC and the 4th with 17 points against 11 points of Kigali City players. AGF won the game on the buzzer with 3 points shoot and 1 free throw scored at 2 seconds of the game made by GISHOMA (57-56 points). The effort of MUSINGA (Emmanuel) MURENZI Yves to push Kigali City to the win was not enough compare to the determination and self confidence of BARAME (10) and MUHIRE Fiston (9) of AGF. Mr. Jean de Dieu, the coach of Kigali City was disappointed by the playing of his players after 2 years out of the country and the national basketball.

Semi finals


ESPOIR-AGF
AGF start with a lead in 1st quarter with 20 against 14 points of ESPOIR and ESPOIR players reduced the score in the second quarter with 21 points against 16 of AGF and 17 points against 16 points of AGF. ESPOIR won definitely the game in the last quarter with 30 points while AGF scored only 20points. The final score was 82points of ESPOIR versus 72 points of AGF. In this game, MUHIRE Bertrand of ESPOIR who fouled out at 3 minutes of the end of the game scored 23 points and John BAHUFITE 21 points (6 shoots scored at 3 points) while BARAME, MUHIRE Fiston, GISHOMA scored respectively 23, 17 and 12 points.

APR-KCBC
This game of the champion of last season (APR) and KCBC (3rd place) start at high speed and controlled with KCBC players shortly in 1st quarter (12-15 points) and better in the 2nd with 11-15 points. After the break, Mr. Cliff, the coach of from Kenya tried to better organize the Rwanda Defense team and reduced the points’ deference 20-17 and 26-24 points in 3rd and 4th quarters respectively. KCBC players controlled all the game but with more difficult at the end with a final score was 71 points against 69 points for APR. APR captain BADIBANGA (from DRC) scored 17 pts with 2 tree points, CHIAMANUKA (15 pts), KARIMU scored 14 pts with three 3pts while Bula (RUTABAYIRO Jean Claude) scored only 9 pts. The APR centre, Bunene was sick and didn’t participate in their defeat. At KCBC side, MUGUNGA Louis and BAHIGE Jacques scored 23 points and 21 points respectively for Kigali City Basketball Club.

Finals
UNR-APR (Ladies)
Ladies from National University won the tournament with a poor score of 39 against 31points of Rwanda Defense Forces ladies (APR).

KCBC-ESPOIR (Men)
After good semi finals presented by both teams, this final was waiting for many people. KCBC players started with a nice control of the game and gave a several 10-3 to ESPOIR before they made back into the game and finish the 1st quarter with 19 – 12 points, KCBC leading the score. In the 2nd quarter ESPOIR also gave a several 27-13 points to KCBC. Both teams shown fatigue during the first minutes of the 3rd quarter, but Kigali City players, more feat than ESPOIR players’ took this occasion and killed the game with 24 points against only 11 points scored by ESPOIR. They continued to manage their score and finished the 4th quarter with 15 points versus 13 pts. KCBC made difference at three points’ line with 12 shoots scored against 6 for ESPOIR. The final score was 71 points of KCBC against 63 pts of ESPOIR. For KCBC, MUGUNGA Louis 22 pts (5 three points), while NYIRISHEMA Richard and NIYIKORA Emmanuel (MUSINGA) scored 12 points each and UWINTONI Emmanuel (MANU) 11 pts (with 3 three points). At ESPOIR side, the discrete UWINEZA Valery score 11 pts (3 three points in the first half) tried to help his captain MUGENGA Leonce (L’HOMME) but their only effort was not enough versus the determination and group-playing of Kigali City player who presented a good and homogeny team at this beginning of season.

The Kigali City Basketball team is presented as a new coming in the leading group of Rwanda Basketball and a good example for the country as well as all players are Rwandan and many are still young.