30 April 2006
KENYA: KPA are new club champions
By Oscar Pilipili
Kenya Ports Authority are the 2006 East and Central Africa Basketball club Champions.
KPA dethroned defending champions Sprite Storms after beating them 58-49 in a decider at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Sunday.
The victory meant that KPA finished at the top with 10 points after winning all their five matches. Storms finished second on nine points after winning four matches in the women’s category played on a round robin format.
Despite the victory, KPA coach Sammy Wanjohi was still unhappy. He said: "Although we have won the title, we did not play well."
"We did not prepare well for this tournament because we received confirmation of our participation quite late. But I’m happy we are the new champions," he added.
His Storms counterpart, Ben Oluoch, said his team did not play well because they had an attitude towards being champions that affected their performance.
"Our defensive and offensive was wanting. We must go back to the drawing board," Oluoch said.
Despite being the first to dunk the opening basket in the second minute through captain Angela Luchivya, Storms ended up trailing KPA in all the four quarters.
Gladys Wanyama and Rose Ouma scored 12 points a piece for the new champions with Miriam Awour contributing a further 11 points.
Storms replied through Hilda Luvandwa who drained the games high 19 points and Luchivya’s seven.
KPA were up 18-5 at the end of the first quarter and added 10 more points in the second quarter including three pointers to lead 28-25 at half time. The third quarter started on a high note with each team struggling to main points.
Sprite, who won the trophy in Dar ea Salaam last year, introduced the towering Beatrice Owino in their bid to narrow the gap, but Millicent Anyango and Ethel Wakesho displayed great defensive game that checked her excursions.
In another match, Uganda’s A-1 Challenges overcame Cargo of Tanzania 84-67 to finish third on eight points with Berco Stars from Burundi fourth on seven points.
The fifth position went to Cargo who collected six points with University of Rwanda finishing sixth on five points.
In the men’s play off, Co-operative Bank of Kenya withered strong resistance to beat Runani of Burundi 7-1-66 in a closely contested match. Co-op led Runani 23-14 after the first quarter, but the tide changed with the visitors catching up with the hosts at 32-32 at half time.
Runani were still ahead of Co-op in the third quarter leading 16-14, but the Kenyans recovered to overtake the visitors with 25-18 lead in the fourth set.
Wycliffe Ochieng and Dan Gaiko scored 18 and 11 points respectively for Co-op while Njibere Willy (14) and Sindayigaya Fabrice (9) replied for Runani who finished fourth.
Patriotic Army of Rwanda (APR), were rated fourth, with Nkumba Marine (Uganda), Stone Town (Zanzibar) finishing fifth and sixth respectively.
Kenya Ports Authority are the 2006 East and Central Africa Basketball club Champions.
KPA dethroned defending champions Sprite Storms after beating them 58-49 in a decider at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Sunday.
The victory meant that KPA finished at the top with 10 points after winning all their five matches. Storms finished second on nine points after winning four matches in the women’s category played on a round robin format.
Despite the victory, KPA coach Sammy Wanjohi was still unhappy. He said: "Although we have won the title, we did not play well."
"We did not prepare well for this tournament because we received confirmation of our participation quite late. But I’m happy we are the new champions," he added.
His Storms counterpart, Ben Oluoch, said his team did not play well because they had an attitude towards being champions that affected their performance.
"Our defensive and offensive was wanting. We must go back to the drawing board," Oluoch said.
Despite being the first to dunk the opening basket in the second minute through captain Angela Luchivya, Storms ended up trailing KPA in all the four quarters.
Gladys Wanyama and Rose Ouma scored 12 points a piece for the new champions with Miriam Awour contributing a further 11 points.
Storms replied through Hilda Luvandwa who drained the games high 19 points and Luchivya’s seven.
KPA were up 18-5 at the end of the first quarter and added 10 more points in the second quarter including three pointers to lead 28-25 at half time. The third quarter started on a high note with each team struggling to main points.
Sprite, who won the trophy in Dar ea Salaam last year, introduced the towering Beatrice Owino in their bid to narrow the gap, but Millicent Anyango and Ethel Wakesho displayed great defensive game that checked her excursions.
In another match, Uganda’s A-1 Challenges overcame Cargo of Tanzania 84-67 to finish third on eight points with Berco Stars from Burundi fourth on seven points.
The fifth position went to Cargo who collected six points with University of Rwanda finishing sixth on five points.
In the men’s play off, Co-operative Bank of Kenya withered strong resistance to beat Runani of Burundi 7-1-66 in a closely contested match. Co-op led Runani 23-14 after the first quarter, but the tide changed with the visitors catching up with the hosts at 32-32 at half time.
Runani were still ahead of Co-op in the third quarter leading 16-14, but the Kenyans recovered to overtake the visitors with 25-18 lead in the fourth set.
Wycliffe Ochieng and Dan Gaiko scored 18 and 11 points respectively for Co-op while Njibere Willy (14) and Sindayigaya Fabrice (9) replied for Runani who finished fourth.
Patriotic Army of Rwanda (APR), were rated fourth, with Nkumba Marine (Uganda), Stone Town (Zanzibar) finishing fifth and sixth respectively.
KENYA: Photo from Storms(Kenya) x A1 (Uganda)
Adetunje Daniele (left) and Maria Nyamai (right) of Kenya's Storms tussle for the ball with Betty Namukada of Uganda's A1 Challege during their East, Central and Southern Africa Basketball Championships match at Nairobi's Nyayo National Stadium yesterday. Storms won 72-30.
Photo by Mohammed Amin
KENYA: Ulinzi Warriors sail to final
Ulinzi Warriors sailed to the final of the East and Central Africa Club Champions men's division when they beat Urunani of Burundi by six points at the Nyayo basketball gymnasium yesterday.
Kenya's Ulinzi was given a run for their money by the Burundian youngsters who scored 61 points.
It will be an all Kenyan final as Ulinzi will either fight it out with defending champions Kenya Commercial Bank, who were facing Co-op Bank in the other semifinal at Press time.
In the women's division Sprite Storms (Kenya) enhanced their chances of retaining the Championship's trophy for women when they beat A-1 Challenge of Uganda by 42 points.
The self supporting A-1 Challenge of Uganda did not provide much challenge to Storms who dominated the game from the bell.
Storms started the game on a slow pace ending the first quarter with 12 points to A-1 Challenge's 8.
Storms then took a commanding lead at half-time when they took scores to 39, while A-1 Challenge were on 16.
Storms' captain Angela Luchinga was the highest scorer with 11 points while Betty Namukasa top scored for her side with 10.
The Storms are unbeaten so far but are yet to meet arch rivals Kenya Ports Authority with whom they are tied at eight points apiece from their four outings.
The Mombasa based dockers proved too strong for the national University of Rwanda (UNR) whom they beat by a massive 49 points at the same venue yesterday.
The KPA team banked on experience to convert most of the balls in their possession to baskets unlike UNR who lost many chances through inaccuracy.
The UNR have not won a match so far.
They play their last game today against Berco Stars of Burundi.
The two Kenyan sides are set to meet today in what is expected to be the match decider of the women's championships.
The winner of today's event will end their games with a maximum 10 points and the loser will take the second spot with eight points.
Kenya's Ulinzi was given a run for their money by the Burundian youngsters who scored 61 points.
It will be an all Kenyan final as Ulinzi will either fight it out with defending champions Kenya Commercial Bank, who were facing Co-op Bank in the other semifinal at Press time.
In the women's division Sprite Storms (Kenya) enhanced their chances of retaining the Championship's trophy for women when they beat A-1 Challenge of Uganda by 42 points.
The self supporting A-1 Challenge of Uganda did not provide much challenge to Storms who dominated the game from the bell.
Storms started the game on a slow pace ending the first quarter with 12 points to A-1 Challenge's 8.
Storms then took a commanding lead at half-time when they took scores to 39, while A-1 Challenge were on 16.
Storms' captain Angela Luchinga was the highest scorer with 11 points while Betty Namukasa top scored for her side with 10.
The Storms are unbeaten so far but are yet to meet arch rivals Kenya Ports Authority with whom they are tied at eight points apiece from their four outings.
The Mombasa based dockers proved too strong for the national University of Rwanda (UNR) whom they beat by a massive 49 points at the same venue yesterday.
The KPA team banked on experience to convert most of the balls in their possession to baskets unlike UNR who lost many chances through inaccuracy.
The UNR have not won a match so far.
They play their last game today against Berco Stars of Burundi.
The two Kenyan sides are set to meet today in what is expected to be the match decider of the women's championships.
The winner of today's event will end their games with a maximum 10 points and the loser will take the second spot with eight points.
29 April 2006
KENYA: Photo From APR (Rwanda) - Ulinzi (Kenya)
BURUNDI: Burundians in Semi-Finals
Burundi's Urunani booked themselves a place in the semi-finals of the East and Central Africa Club championship when they beat Nkumba Marine of Uganda by six points at the Nyayo basketball gymnasium yesterday.
Uranani (70 points) made use of every opportunity which came their way unlike their opponents who were constantly off target.
The eams levelled scores twice during the length of the game; at 15 points in the first quarter and 24 in the second.
The Burundian team staged a strong defensive game as their boys took full advantage of their height to block well stopping their opponents from running the ball to the basket.
Kanamugira Olivier was Urunani's top scorer with 25 points while Salim Mzee topped his side with 21 points.
The win earned Urunani two points which put them second to Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) who top men's pool "A" with four points.
Ulinzi and Co-op Bank have already qualified for the semifinals in pool "A". The two were playing a game to determine the top team in their pool at Press time.Although APR of Rwanda's hopes of reaching the semifinals were shattered by Ulinzi and Co-op bank to whom they lost in their opening exchanges, they hammered Stone Town of Zanzibar by a massive 71 points at the same venue.
APR came third in the pool with two points while Stone Town who only manages to score a paltry 45 points were last with no points.
As for the women's championships, Kenya teams Sprite Storm and Kenya Ports Authority are likely to meet in the final. Both are unbeaten so far with four points a piece.
Uranani (70 points) made use of every opportunity which came their way unlike their opponents who were constantly off target.
The eams levelled scores twice during the length of the game; at 15 points in the first quarter and 24 in the second.
The Burundian team staged a strong defensive game as their boys took full advantage of their height to block well stopping their opponents from running the ball to the basket.
Kanamugira Olivier was Urunani's top scorer with 25 points while Salim Mzee topped his side with 21 points.
The win earned Urunani two points which put them second to Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) who top men's pool "A" with four points.
Ulinzi and Co-op Bank have already qualified for the semifinals in pool "A". The two were playing a game to determine the top team in their pool at Press time.Although APR of Rwanda's hopes of reaching the semifinals were shattered by Ulinzi and Co-op bank to whom they lost in their opening exchanges, they hammered Stone Town of Zanzibar by a massive 71 points at the same venue.
APR came third in the pool with two points while Stone Town who only manages to score a paltry 45 points were last with no points.
As for the women's championships, Kenya teams Sprite Storm and Kenya Ports Authority are likely to meet in the final. Both are unbeaten so far with four points a piece.
UGANDA: Rhinos Face Stone
Yello Max side Charging Rhinos return to the courts today against Livingstone in an MTN League game at YMCA Courts. Fresh from the 57-55 win over Kyambogo Warriors last weekend, the 1997 league champions will be all out for maximum points.
Rhinos had a disastrous season last year and failed to reach the play offs, but they have won two of their three previous outings. On form Mande Juruni will lead the side and the return of Diego Angiemi adds more colour to the side.
In the women's league, Crane High School takes on Makerere Cubs in what is expected to be an entertaining encounter. Burundi imports Florence Kalume and Kantungeko Nalusa, together with Immaculate Chocho will lead the high school girls.
Nabisunsa Girls also play neighbours Kyambogo Comets in the other hot game. Both Nabisunsa and Crane High will use the league games as final tune up for the National Schools' Basketball Championships which tip off next weekend at Ndejje SS.
Meanwhile, national champions Nkumba Marines fell 49-88 to defending champions Kenya Commercial Bank Lions in the regional basketball tournament raging in Nairobi, Kenya.
Fixtures
Men
FPAU vs Crane High
Flippers vs KCC Lions
UCU vs Riders
Rhino vs Stone
Women
Crane High vs Mak Cubs
Nabisunsa vs Ky. Comets
Rhinos had a disastrous season last year and failed to reach the play offs, but they have won two of their three previous outings. On form Mande Juruni will lead the side and the return of Diego Angiemi adds more colour to the side.
In the women's league, Crane High School takes on Makerere Cubs in what is expected to be an entertaining encounter. Burundi imports Florence Kalume and Kantungeko Nalusa, together with Immaculate Chocho will lead the high school girls.
Nabisunsa Girls also play neighbours Kyambogo Comets in the other hot game. Both Nabisunsa and Crane High will use the league games as final tune up for the National Schools' Basketball Championships which tip off next weekend at Ndejje SS.
Meanwhile, national champions Nkumba Marines fell 49-88 to defending champions Kenya Commercial Bank Lions in the regional basketball tournament raging in Nairobi, Kenya.
Fixtures
Men
FPAU vs Crane High
Flippers vs KCC Lions
UCU vs Riders
Rhino vs Stone
Women
Crane High vs Mak Cubs
Nabisunsa vs Ky. Comets
ZAMBIA: Zim School Basketball Team in for Games
A girls' school basketball team from Zimbabwe is in the country to play against the Zambian Under-20 select team and teams from various schools.
The Dominican Convent team captained by a Zambian, Mutauka Yeta, has already played and comprehensively beaten Munali Girls' Secondary and Roma Girls.
Yeta is the daughter of Zambia's defence advisor at the Zambian Embassy in Harare. Yeta said women's basketball in Zambia was still in its developmental stage while in Zimbabwe competition was high as girls started playing the game at a tender age.
Dominican Convent beat Munali 49-15 in the first game and then battered Roma 62-07 in the second game.
Yeta's mother, who is accompanying the team, urged other parents to show support for their children as a way of keeping them away from vices that could hinder their progress.Team coach Gladys Phiri said the idea of undertaking the trip to Lusaka was to assess the readiness of her team as it prepared for the league that opens next match.
"We also want to tap and develop talent among the girls and also to expose them to different styles of the game in the region," Phiri said. Zambia Basketball Association (ZBA) general secretary Mwembe Kaona said Dominican would play the Under-20 select team to wrap up its tour of Lusaka.
By press time, the Zimbabwe team was playing its final match against the Zambia Under-20 select side.
The Dominican Convent team captained by a Zambian, Mutauka Yeta, has already played and comprehensively beaten Munali Girls' Secondary and Roma Girls.
Yeta is the daughter of Zambia's defence advisor at the Zambian Embassy in Harare. Yeta said women's basketball in Zambia was still in its developmental stage while in Zimbabwe competition was high as girls started playing the game at a tender age.
Dominican Convent beat Munali 49-15 in the first game and then battered Roma 62-07 in the second game.
Yeta's mother, who is accompanying the team, urged other parents to show support for their children as a way of keeping them away from vices that could hinder their progress.Team coach Gladys Phiri said the idea of undertaking the trip to Lusaka was to assess the readiness of her team as it prepared for the league that opens next match.
"We also want to tap and develop talent among the girls and also to expose them to different styles of the game in the region," Phiri said. Zambia Basketball Association (ZBA) general secretary Mwembe Kaona said Dominican would play the Under-20 select team to wrap up its tour of Lusaka.
By press time, the Zimbabwe team was playing its final match against the Zambia Under-20 select side.
NIGERIA: Dodan Warriors Invade Asaba for Delta Force
Patrick Omorodion
High riding Dodan Warriors Basketball Club of Lagos still basking in the euphoria of their 91-63 demolition of Lagos Islanders will on Sunday at the Asaba Indoor Sports Hall engage Delta Force of Asaba in their last match for April in the Vmobile Basketball League.
Proprietor of the club, Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd), said he is optimistic his boys will pull another win to maintain their winning streak but that they will not under-rate the Asaba boys who are yet to taste the sweetness of victory.
With the Warriors proving to be the revelation of the Vmobile league so far, Col. Ahmedu said last week at the National Stadium in Lagos that there is no magic to their feat order than "we had to off load the big names we had because we discovered that their presence would have slowed down our game".
He picked out players like Christopher Okoh and Anyebe as some of the big name players the Warriors dropped from their team for the current season, stressing that the young players they parade now "are not too skillful and they know that so they make up with their speed and defence".
Col. Ahmedu added that all the departments in the team have equal distribution of players unlike in the past when one was loaded with good players to the detriment of others.For Delta Force, they will not give in easily having lost all their games since the season began and Chairman of the Delta State Basketball Federation, Charles Arubi, has assured they won't allow that dampen their spirit as they host Dodan Warriors.
In Lagos today, Nigerian Customs who are yet to find their feet face Islanders who were battered last week by the Warriors and Scott Nnaji believes his wards will soon get into top gear now that he can concentrate after his absence for the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. They could pick maximum points from the Toyin Sonoiki team that are shadows of their old self.
Defending champions Union Bank are home to Ebun Comets at the National Stadium Indoor Sports Hall and the Bankers coach Emmanuel Okolo says though he expects a tough challenge from Comets, his boys could triumph at the end.
High riding Dodan Warriors Basketball Club of Lagos still basking in the euphoria of their 91-63 demolition of Lagos Islanders will on Sunday at the Asaba Indoor Sports Hall engage Delta Force of Asaba in their last match for April in the Vmobile Basketball League.
Proprietor of the club, Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd), said he is optimistic his boys will pull another win to maintain their winning streak but that they will not under-rate the Asaba boys who are yet to taste the sweetness of victory.
With the Warriors proving to be the revelation of the Vmobile league so far, Col. Ahmedu said last week at the National Stadium in Lagos that there is no magic to their feat order than "we had to off load the big names we had because we discovered that their presence would have slowed down our game".
He picked out players like Christopher Okoh and Anyebe as some of the big name players the Warriors dropped from their team for the current season, stressing that the young players they parade now "are not too skillful and they know that so they make up with their speed and defence".
Col. Ahmedu added that all the departments in the team have equal distribution of players unlike in the past when one was loaded with good players to the detriment of others.For Delta Force, they will not give in easily having lost all their games since the season began and Chairman of the Delta State Basketball Federation, Charles Arubi, has assured they won't allow that dampen their spirit as they host Dodan Warriors.
In Lagos today, Nigerian Customs who are yet to find their feet face Islanders who were battered last week by the Warriors and Scott Nnaji believes his wards will soon get into top gear now that he can concentrate after his absence for the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. They could pick maximum points from the Toyin Sonoiki team that are shadows of their old self.
Defending champions Union Bank are home to Ebun Comets at the National Stadium Indoor Sports Hall and the Bankers coach Emmanuel Okolo says though he expects a tough challenge from Comets, his boys could triumph at the end.
KENYA: Kenya Teams Dominate Club Championship
Kenyan clubs continued to dominate the East and Central Africa basketball club championship with Ulinzi Warriors, Kenya Commercial Bank and Kenya Ports Authority recording their second straight victories yesterday.
At the same time, several players and officials have complained about the lack of proper medical and emergency facilities at Nyayo Stadium, venue of the tournament.
Ulinzi sprinted to a 77-30 win over Stone Town of Zanzibar at Nyayo Stadium. The Zanzibaris, who arrived in Nairobi at 1 am yesterday, did not have much to offer against the superior Kenyan soldiers, who restricted them to just four points in the opening quarter with the score on 21-4.
The Kenyans continued their good defensive work, letting in just another four points to lead the Stone Town 48-8 at half time.
On offence, Ulinzi met little resistance as Ancet Wafula, Tom Opar and Vincent Ambani sunk shots at will from behind the arc.
Despite the huge margin of loss, Stone Town exhibited good technique and ball handling skills.
Their coach, Said Ali, blamed the loss on fatigue after their long road trip from Zanzibar. "We got here at 1 am and it was not until 3 am that we went to sleep. The players are therefore fatigued and that is why they couldn't play well," said the coach.
In the first match of the day, the KPA women were too good for Cargo, strolling to a 87-39 victory over the Tanzania Mainland side. Rose Ouma was the toast of the KPA attack, scoring 27 points. Halima Bori was the top scorer for Cargo with 13 points.
In the third match of the day, Berco Stars women of Burundi squandered a 13-point lead midway through third quarter to go down 56-53 to A1 Challenge of Uganda.
After a slow scoring first quarter in which both teams were tied 9-9, the Burundi women led 25-23 at half time and dominated the third quarter before the Ugandans clawed their way back into the match to finish the quarter four points behind on 39-43 after trailing by more than ten points for most of the quarter.
As the final quarter started, Betty Namukasa scored twice to put the Ugandans ahead for the first time in the game. Belyse Mugisha responded with a three pointer to level the score at 47-all. Lack of experience begun to tell on the young Burundians as they rushed into shots, gave away free throws and engaged in verbal exchanges with each other and with their coach.
The Ugandans duly capitalised on their opponents' mistakes to wrap up the game.Kenya Commercial Bank also had no difficulties disposing of Nkumba Marine of Uganda, whom they beat 83-43.
Several players and officials have complained about the lack of proper medical and emergency facilities.
"We are disappointed because our players have been injured and we have not seen serious first aid personnel here. This is a contact sport and we do not know what would happen if someone got badly injured because we have not even seen an ambulance here," said a player from the Tanzania who declined to be named.
At the same time, several players and officials have complained about the lack of proper medical and emergency facilities at Nyayo Stadium, venue of the tournament.
Ulinzi sprinted to a 77-30 win over Stone Town of Zanzibar at Nyayo Stadium. The Zanzibaris, who arrived in Nairobi at 1 am yesterday, did not have much to offer against the superior Kenyan soldiers, who restricted them to just four points in the opening quarter with the score on 21-4.
The Kenyans continued their good defensive work, letting in just another four points to lead the Stone Town 48-8 at half time.
On offence, Ulinzi met little resistance as Ancet Wafula, Tom Opar and Vincent Ambani sunk shots at will from behind the arc.
Despite the huge margin of loss, Stone Town exhibited good technique and ball handling skills.
Their coach, Said Ali, blamed the loss on fatigue after their long road trip from Zanzibar. "We got here at 1 am and it was not until 3 am that we went to sleep. The players are therefore fatigued and that is why they couldn't play well," said the coach.
In the first match of the day, the KPA women were too good for Cargo, strolling to a 87-39 victory over the Tanzania Mainland side. Rose Ouma was the toast of the KPA attack, scoring 27 points. Halima Bori was the top scorer for Cargo with 13 points.
In the third match of the day, Berco Stars women of Burundi squandered a 13-point lead midway through third quarter to go down 56-53 to A1 Challenge of Uganda.
After a slow scoring first quarter in which both teams were tied 9-9, the Burundi women led 25-23 at half time and dominated the third quarter before the Ugandans clawed their way back into the match to finish the quarter four points behind on 39-43 after trailing by more than ten points for most of the quarter.
As the final quarter started, Betty Namukasa scored twice to put the Ugandans ahead for the first time in the game. Belyse Mugisha responded with a three pointer to level the score at 47-all. Lack of experience begun to tell on the young Burundians as they rushed into shots, gave away free throws and engaged in verbal exchanges with each other and with their coach.
The Ugandans duly capitalised on their opponents' mistakes to wrap up the game.Kenya Commercial Bank also had no difficulties disposing of Nkumba Marine of Uganda, whom they beat 83-43.
Several players and officials have complained about the lack of proper medical and emergency facilities.
"We are disappointed because our players have been injured and we have not seen serious first aid personnel here. This is a contact sport and we do not know what would happen if someone got badly injured because we have not even seen an ambulance here," said a player from the Tanzania who declined to be named.
NIGERIA: Vmobile Basketball League week four
Action resume this evening as the Nigeria Vmobile Premier Basketball League enters week-four across the Atlantic and Savannah conferences of the league proudly sponsored by telecommunication giant, Vmobile Nigeria.
Today at the sports hall of the Lagos National Stadium, Surulere, former champion, Lagos Islanders basketball club will attempt to redeem the temporary setback it suffered when it host to city rival, Nigeria Customs Service basketball club.
Islanders whose ambition of making the Atlantic conference final-4 playoffs billed for Port Harcourt, Rivers State suffered huge setback last weekend when it went down to rampaging Dodan Warriors basketball club losing by 28 points margin of 91-63 points will do all within its arsenal to further compound the woes of the borders boys as the Customs team is known who are yet to record a win in the four week old league.
Also today in the Savannah conference, AHIP Giant basketball club will engage Pillars of Kano in a local derby at the sports hall of Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofa Mata, Kano.
The AHIP Giant team is campaigning in the Nigeria big league for the first time cannot be said to be enjoying the best of time as it has been unable to find its footing among the big boys.
And on Saturday 2005 Vmobile/NBBF challenge winner Union Bank basketball club will take on 2003 league champion, Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos in an action packed encounter that promises to give fans value for their money and time.
Both side have won two matches and lost one each in the race to make the final-4 playoffs, more so, pride is at stake as Union Bank enjoyed the upper hand in both sides previous meeting winning two out the both side three meeting last year.
In the Savannah conference Yelwa Hawks basketball club will be at home to Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos at the sports hall of the Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.
The week-four pairing will end on Sunday with Atlantic conference table toper, Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos trip to Asaba, the den of Delta Force basketball club to attempt the impossible.
Warriors’ coordinator, Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd), says "the team is embarking on a mission Asaba and that is to keep its unbeaten run intact".
From the Savannah conference comes an epic battle between two old warhorse and rival, Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos staking its pride against visiting Niger Potters basketball club of Minna.
Week-three Results
Atlantic Conference
Dodan Warriors 91-63 Islanders
Union Bank 83-66 Customs
Ebun Comets 73-62 Delta Force
Saannah Conference
Plateau Peaks 76-67 Tapgun Rockets
Yelwa Hawks 84-79 AHIP Giant
Niger Potters 58-57 Kano Pillars
Today at the sports hall of the Lagos National Stadium, Surulere, former champion, Lagos Islanders basketball club will attempt to redeem the temporary setback it suffered when it host to city rival, Nigeria Customs Service basketball club.
Islanders whose ambition of making the Atlantic conference final-4 playoffs billed for Port Harcourt, Rivers State suffered huge setback last weekend when it went down to rampaging Dodan Warriors basketball club losing by 28 points margin of 91-63 points will do all within its arsenal to further compound the woes of the borders boys as the Customs team is known who are yet to record a win in the four week old league.
Also today in the Savannah conference, AHIP Giant basketball club will engage Pillars of Kano in a local derby at the sports hall of Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofa Mata, Kano.
The AHIP Giant team is campaigning in the Nigeria big league for the first time cannot be said to be enjoying the best of time as it has been unable to find its footing among the big boys.
And on Saturday 2005 Vmobile/NBBF challenge winner Union Bank basketball club will take on 2003 league champion, Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos in an action packed encounter that promises to give fans value for their money and time.
Both side have won two matches and lost one each in the race to make the final-4 playoffs, more so, pride is at stake as Union Bank enjoyed the upper hand in both sides previous meeting winning two out the both side three meeting last year.
In the Savannah conference Yelwa Hawks basketball club will be at home to Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos at the sports hall of the Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.
The week-four pairing will end on Sunday with Atlantic conference table toper, Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos trip to Asaba, the den of Delta Force basketball club to attempt the impossible.
Warriors’ coordinator, Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd), says "the team is embarking on a mission Asaba and that is to keep its unbeaten run intact".
From the Savannah conference comes an epic battle between two old warhorse and rival, Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos staking its pride against visiting Niger Potters basketball club of Minna.
Week-three Results
Atlantic Conference
Dodan Warriors 91-63 Islanders
Union Bank 83-66 Customs
Ebun Comets 73-62 Delta Force
Saannah Conference
Plateau Peaks 76-67 Tapgun Rockets
Yelwa Hawks 84-79 AHIP Giant
Niger Potters 58-57 Kano Pillars
ZAMBIA: Barclays Magic take on Newspaper Direct
THE Zambia Dairy Processors basketball league enters week six with Barclays Magic taking on Newspaper Direct Heroes today at the National Sports development Centre.
And a team from Livingstone has applied to join the Zambia Basketball Association league.
Heroes, a team that has already dropped points against UNZA Pacers and Green Eagles, will fancy its chances against a Magic side that is living on the memories of past glory and not current form.
Magic have Kalaba Katebe, Newman Muyatwa, Jimmy Kansuma and Chris Kabongo to record a famous win against their rivals.
Despite the name change following new sponsors, Heroes will need to dig deep to salvage their pride in this match and turn their season around.
And in a ‘Cain and Abel’ fixture, NAPSA Hurricanes take on its reserve side Junior Hurricanes in the opening match of the day.
NAPSA Hurricanes, the national champions, may not even have to break a sweat against their juniors.
UNZA Pacers, on cloud nine after their win over Heroes last week, play Green Buffaloes.
Buffaloes were winners last week posting a half-basket victory over LCC Looters.
Pacers will seek motivation from their 64-57 demolition of Heroes and believe that they can record their third straight win this season.
With Ntilila Chaila, Chisanga Mwila, Bwalya Mazzuki and Sipho Nakalowa playing some of their best basketball, the Buffaloes team of Cletus Nkandu, Chipo Inyama Dexter Mwikisa and Charles Zulu will need more than just experience to get full points.
Another fixture will see Green Eagles take on Lusaka Kings while in the women’s league, National Champions Nets play UNZA Honeys.
Meanwhile, ZBA general secretary Mwembe Kaonga has said Police Hookers, a team from Livingstone, has indicated readiness to compete in the ZDPA-sponsored league.
And a team from Livingstone has applied to join the Zambia Basketball Association league.
Heroes, a team that has already dropped points against UNZA Pacers and Green Eagles, will fancy its chances against a Magic side that is living on the memories of past glory and not current form.
Magic have Kalaba Katebe, Newman Muyatwa, Jimmy Kansuma and Chris Kabongo to record a famous win against their rivals.
Despite the name change following new sponsors, Heroes will need to dig deep to salvage their pride in this match and turn their season around.
And in a ‘Cain and Abel’ fixture, NAPSA Hurricanes take on its reserve side Junior Hurricanes in the opening match of the day.
NAPSA Hurricanes, the national champions, may not even have to break a sweat against their juniors.
UNZA Pacers, on cloud nine after their win over Heroes last week, play Green Buffaloes.
Buffaloes were winners last week posting a half-basket victory over LCC Looters.
Pacers will seek motivation from their 64-57 demolition of Heroes and believe that they can record their third straight win this season.
With Ntilila Chaila, Chisanga Mwila, Bwalya Mazzuki and Sipho Nakalowa playing some of their best basketball, the Buffaloes team of Cletus Nkandu, Chipo Inyama Dexter Mwikisa and Charles Zulu will need more than just experience to get full points.
Another fixture will see Green Eagles take on Lusaka Kings while in the women’s league, National Champions Nets play UNZA Honeys.
Meanwhile, ZBA general secretary Mwembe Kaonga has said Police Hookers, a team from Livingstone, has indicated readiness to compete in the ZDPA-sponsored league.
NIGERIA: Vmobile League: Lagos Islanders Battle Customs
The Vmobile Premier Basketball League enters Week Four this weekend with games across both conferences. The Atlantic Conference action will begin today in Lagos with the Lagos Islanders taking on the Nigeria Customs Club. Both teams are stepping out at the National Stadium with defeats from their last games. But while the Islanders will simply play to regain their steps, it is quite a mountain task for the Customs who are battling to secure their very first win this season.
In the Atlantic Conference, it has become quite difficult for experts to predict games and this match will be like the others. What is certain is that the game will be quite exciting. Every point will be desperately fought for in the hall usually full of excitement.
In Kano, it is a local de4rby in the only match of the day for the Savannah Conference. Premier league rookies, AHIP Giants will be hosts to powerhouse Kano Pillars. This game may not be to tough to call. Forms, records and image give the game to the Pillars and a win for their opponents will be interpreted as upset. What will make the fixture quite a tough one for AHIP is the fact that the Pillars lost their last game in Minna to Niger Potters by 58-57. And in a league where every point counts on the road to the play offs the Pillars will take this game seriously as any slip can cost them topping the zone to the play offs.
Tomorrow in Bauchi Yelwa Hawks are home to Tapgun Rockets who are struggling to find their feet in the league. Without the aid of a soothsayer the Hawks is as good as winning the game. The most on offer from their young opponents is quality resistance.
In Lagos, the match of the weekend is that between Union Bank and Ebun Comets. The game is a five star pairing. Followers of the Vmobile League know very well that until the buzzer nobody can say exactly who will take the game.
In the Atlantic Conference, it has become quite difficult for experts to predict games and this match will be like the others. What is certain is that the game will be quite exciting. Every point will be desperately fought for in the hall usually full of excitement.
In Kano, it is a local de4rby in the only match of the day for the Savannah Conference. Premier league rookies, AHIP Giants will be hosts to powerhouse Kano Pillars. This game may not be to tough to call. Forms, records and image give the game to the Pillars and a win for their opponents will be interpreted as upset. What will make the fixture quite a tough one for AHIP is the fact that the Pillars lost their last game in Minna to Niger Potters by 58-57. And in a league where every point counts on the road to the play offs the Pillars will take this game seriously as any slip can cost them topping the zone to the play offs.
Tomorrow in Bauchi Yelwa Hawks are home to Tapgun Rockets who are struggling to find their feet in the league. Without the aid of a soothsayer the Hawks is as good as winning the game. The most on offer from their young opponents is quality resistance.
In Lagos, the match of the weekend is that between Union Bank and Ebun Comets. The game is a five star pairing. Followers of the Vmobile League know very well that until the buzzer nobody can say exactly who will take the game.
ZIMBABWE: Tara Nyikavaranda MVP of Lander University
Tara Nyikavaranda MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Rebounder of the year from his team the Lander University
ZIMBABWE: UZ Stars beat Gentlemen's Association
Result of game played 26 April 2006 at Richwood Park
UZ Stars 54 Gentlemen's Association 29
UZ Stars 54 Gentlemen's Association 29
27 April 2006
KENYA: Lions on the prowl
By Dann O’were and Oscar Pilipili
Reigning East and Central Africa club champions KCB Lions started their title defence on a high, posting a 80-61 win over Burundi’s Runani at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Tuesday.
However, it was the losers Nijimbere Willy who hit the games opener after two minutes but KCB replied through Paul Onyango before a three pointer by John Njuguna gave the Kenyans a 5-2 lead.
Juma Ikapian’s two consecutive three pointers gave the Lions a 22-19 lead in the first quarter. The visitors, however, made a brave fight-back to close the gap to 24-21 in the second quarter before bad light caused temporary stoppage for 15 minutes.
The Lions built a 40-34 cushion at the break despite the tie being played under inadequate light. In the last quarter, the bankers raced to a 63-44 lead as both sides resorted to fouls.
Ikapian topped the scoring chart with 24 points while Wycliffe Okoth and Greg Odera each scored 12.
KPA...........69 Berbo ...........31
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), recorded their second straight victory on Wednesday with a 69-31 victory over Berco Stars of Burundi.
Miriam Anyango sunk 15 points while Rose Ouma contributed 12 for the national champions. Belisye Mugisha drained nine points that included a three pointer for the Burundians.
The experienced KPA left nothing to chance as they went into the offensive from the first whistle to take a 10-8 lead inside the first three minutes with Yvonne Akinyi and Rose Ouma scoring early points.
Ethel Wakesho also entered the scorers sheet with a double in the sixth minute as KPA dominated the encounter.
Reigning East and Central Africa club champions KCB Lions started their title defence on a high, posting a 80-61 win over Burundi’s Runani at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Tuesday.
However, it was the losers Nijimbere Willy who hit the games opener after two minutes but KCB replied through Paul Onyango before a three pointer by John Njuguna gave the Kenyans a 5-2 lead.
Juma Ikapian’s two consecutive three pointers gave the Lions a 22-19 lead in the first quarter. The visitors, however, made a brave fight-back to close the gap to 24-21 in the second quarter before bad light caused temporary stoppage for 15 minutes.
The Lions built a 40-34 cushion at the break despite the tie being played under inadequate light. In the last quarter, the bankers raced to a 63-44 lead as both sides resorted to fouls.
Ikapian topped the scoring chart with 24 points while Wycliffe Okoth and Greg Odera each scored 12.
KPA...........69 Berbo ...........31
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), recorded their second straight victory on Wednesday with a 69-31 victory over Berco Stars of Burundi.
Miriam Anyango sunk 15 points while Rose Ouma contributed 12 for the national champions. Belisye Mugisha drained nine points that included a three pointer for the Burundians.
The experienced KPA left nothing to chance as they went into the offensive from the first whistle to take a 10-8 lead inside the first three minutes with Yvonne Akinyi and Rose Ouma scoring early points.
Ethel Wakesho also entered the scorers sheet with a double in the sixth minute as KPA dominated the encounter.
UGANDA: A-1 Challenge secures first win in Kenya
Results
A-I Challenge 74 Rwanda 56
Storms 80 Berco 36
Men
Ulinzi 77 APR 67
KCB Lions 80 Urunani 61
Today
Marines vs KCB Lions
AFTER a false start in the regional clubs championships, Ugandan league queens A-1 Challenge yesterday recovered with a 74-56 win over National University of Rwanda at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya.
It was A-I's first win in the competition after the 70-37 opening loss to Kenya's women champions KPA.
Betty Namukasa and Josephine Namayega led the side to the much needed win.
The duo were good cover in the absence of point guard Gloria Kyomugisha (right) who got injured in the first two minutes.
The Ugandan side were to play their third game today against Berco Stars but the Burundi champions were yet to arrive in Kenya by yesterday.
Meanwhile, Uganda's men representatives Nkumba University Marines had their first game of the tournament against JKT postponed because the Tanzanians had also not yet arrived in Kenya.
Marines today return to the courts against defending champions KCB Lions of Kenya. The Ugandans hope to get the maximum points from this game so as to qualify for the semi finals.
Falcons (2000) and Lady Bucks are the only Ugandan sides to have won the tourney.
A-I Challenge 74 Rwanda 56
Storms 80 Berco 36
Men
Ulinzi 77 APR 67
KCB Lions 80 Urunani 61
Today
Marines vs KCB Lions
AFTER a false start in the regional clubs championships, Ugandan league queens A-1 Challenge yesterday recovered with a 74-56 win over National University of Rwanda at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya.
It was A-I's first win in the competition after the 70-37 opening loss to Kenya's women champions KPA.
Betty Namukasa and Josephine Namayega led the side to the much needed win.
The duo were good cover in the absence of point guard Gloria Kyomugisha (right) who got injured in the first two minutes.
The Ugandan side were to play their third game today against Berco Stars but the Burundi champions were yet to arrive in Kenya by yesterday.
Meanwhile, Uganda's men representatives Nkumba University Marines had their first game of the tournament against JKT postponed because the Tanzanians had also not yet arrived in Kenya.
Marines today return to the courts against defending champions KCB Lions of Kenya. The Ugandans hope to get the maximum points from this game so as to qualify for the semi finals.
Falcons (2000) and Lady Bucks are the only Ugandan sides to have won the tourney.
26 April 2006
BURUNDI: Berco Stars loses against Storms
In the second game of the day, Storms, thrashed Berco Stars from Burundi 80-36. Rose Ouma was the toast of the Storms with 24 points followed by captain Angela Luchivya with 18.
The Burundi side with skilful but small players, was no match for the more powerful and physically bigger Kenyans who stormed to a 21-5 lead at the end of the first quarter before ending the half 37-14.
The Burundi side with skilful but small players, was no match for the more powerful and physically bigger Kenyans who stormed to a 21-5 lead at the end of the first quarter before ending the half 37-14.
UGANDA: False start for Ugandans
Women’s results
A-1 Challenge 37 KPA 70
Storms 81 Berco 36
Today
Challenge v Rwanda Varsity
KPA v Berco
Storms v Cargo
UGANDA women’s basketball champions A-1 Challenge began their campaign for the East and Central Africa Club championships on a wrong note when they lost 37-70 to Kenya Ports Authority.
A-1 Challenge were strong in defence but were let down by inept shooting that saw them trail 6-10, 11-28 and 26-42 in the first quarter, half time and third quarter respectively at Nyayo stadium.
A-1 Challenge 37 KPA 70
Storms 81 Berco 36
Today
Challenge v Rwanda Varsity
KPA v Berco
Storms v Cargo
UGANDA women’s basketball champions A-1 Challenge began their campaign for the East and Central Africa Club championships on a wrong note when they lost 37-70 to Kenya Ports Authority.
A-1 Challenge were strong in defence but were let down by inept shooting that saw them trail 6-10, 11-28 and 26-42 in the first quarter, half time and third quarter respectively at Nyayo stadium.
KENYA: Sprite storm to win over Burundians
Defending East and Central Africa Club Basketball champions Sprite Storms of Kenya started their title defence with a fine win yesterday.
Storms beat Burundi side Berbo Stars 80-36 at the Nyayo National Stadium Gymnasium.
Angela Luchivya top scored for the champions with 15 points as they led 21-5 in the first quarter.
The hosts scored 16-9 in the second quarter, 21-11 in the third quarter and 22-11 in the fourth quarter to win 80-36.
Despite an impressive 10 points by Muhimuendo Eaviru for Berbo, the visitors found the going tough against the local side.
In the other match, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) ladies team also got off to a solid start. They beat A-1 Challenges of Uganda 70-37.
KPA, who are the national champions and also heading Kenya’s charge for glory in the competition, led Challenges throughout the match watched by a sparse but vociferous crowd.
The hosts were up 10-6 in the first quarter and maintained the tempo to lead the visitors 28-11, 55-28 and 70-37 in the next three quarters.
Gladys Wanyama top scored for KPA with 14 points with team-mate Millicent Anyango contributing nine. points
Jose Namayega and Liz Kiza posted 10 and six points respectively for Challenges.
KPA captain Irene Murambi expressed satisfaction with the result: "We had difficulties in the opening quarter as we are yet to acclimatise to the cold weather conditions in Nairobi."
"Some players experienced running noses. (But) the Ugandans were no better than us as they, too, had some problems as they arrived only hours to the match," she said.
Challenges coach Hamza Nyambogo attributed the defeat to fatigue saying the team did not have enough time to warm up.
Nyambogo said an injury to dependable point guard Gloria Kyomugisha had affected the team. "There was nobody to control the match after Gloria got injured," he said.
The match started off on a high tempo with both teams fighting to seize control of the proceedings.
But it was KPA who scored first when Miriam Awour drained a three pointer in the third minute.
Ethel Wakesho, who displayed great dribbling skills during the match, was next to post points.
Challenges got their first points when point guard Kyomugisha scored in the sixth minute.
The scores could have been different in the first quarter but inaccurate shooting and passing cost both teams.
The Ugandans, who faded as the match progressed, failed to click in the second quarter as the inspired Kenyans intercepted their passes at will to score points.
Nyambogo was forced to call for time out with KPA leading 16-9.
Challenges tried to recover in the third quarter with Kiza, Namayeka and Betty Namukasa in the thick of the action.
It was not enough, however, as KPA responded with a string of three pointers, one each from Wakesho, Anyango and Awuor and Yvonne Akinyi, to close the quarter at 55-28 in their favour.
Challenges once again showed some flashes of brilliance in the fourth quarter scoring two quick points from Namayega to narrow the gap to 55-30 but that was as close as they got as KPA went on to clinch the match 70-37.
Storms beat Burundi side Berbo Stars 80-36 at the Nyayo National Stadium Gymnasium.
Angela Luchivya top scored for the champions with 15 points as they led 21-5 in the first quarter.
The hosts scored 16-9 in the second quarter, 21-11 in the third quarter and 22-11 in the fourth quarter to win 80-36.
Despite an impressive 10 points by Muhimuendo Eaviru for Berbo, the visitors found the going tough against the local side.
In the other match, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) ladies team also got off to a solid start. They beat A-1 Challenges of Uganda 70-37.
KPA, who are the national champions and also heading Kenya’s charge for glory in the competition, led Challenges throughout the match watched by a sparse but vociferous crowd.
The hosts were up 10-6 in the first quarter and maintained the tempo to lead the visitors 28-11, 55-28 and 70-37 in the next three quarters.
Gladys Wanyama top scored for KPA with 14 points with team-mate Millicent Anyango contributing nine. points
Jose Namayega and Liz Kiza posted 10 and six points respectively for Challenges.
KPA captain Irene Murambi expressed satisfaction with the result: "We had difficulties in the opening quarter as we are yet to acclimatise to the cold weather conditions in Nairobi."
"Some players experienced running noses. (But) the Ugandans were no better than us as they, too, had some problems as they arrived only hours to the match," she said.
Challenges coach Hamza Nyambogo attributed the defeat to fatigue saying the team did not have enough time to warm up.
Nyambogo said an injury to dependable point guard Gloria Kyomugisha had affected the team. "There was nobody to control the match after Gloria got injured," he said.
The match started off on a high tempo with both teams fighting to seize control of the proceedings.
But it was KPA who scored first when Miriam Awour drained a three pointer in the third minute.
Ethel Wakesho, who displayed great dribbling skills during the match, was next to post points.
Challenges got their first points when point guard Kyomugisha scored in the sixth minute.
The scores could have been different in the first quarter but inaccurate shooting and passing cost both teams.
The Ugandans, who faded as the match progressed, failed to click in the second quarter as the inspired Kenyans intercepted their passes at will to score points.
Nyambogo was forced to call for time out with KPA leading 16-9.
Challenges tried to recover in the third quarter with Kiza, Namayeka and Betty Namukasa in the thick of the action.
It was not enough, however, as KPA responded with a string of three pointers, one each from Wakesho, Anyango and Awuor and Yvonne Akinyi, to close the quarter at 55-28 in their favour.
Challenges once again showed some flashes of brilliance in the fourth quarter scoring two quick points from Namayega to narrow the gap to 55-30 but that was as close as they got as KPA went on to clinch the match 70-37.
UGANDA: Ssebaana Launches Inter Cities Tourney
Kampala Mayor John Ssebaana Kizito on Monday launched the East and Central Africa Inter Cities Basketball Championships to be hosted here between May17-24 at Lugogo Indoor Stadium.
Ssebaana revealed that the City Council has contributed Shs36m of the Shs70m needed for the tournament.
"This is a big event on which we will be judged whether we can host other bigger tournaments. We therefore call on other well-wishers to come in and contribute so that we can successfully host it," he said.
KCC team manager and inter cities treasurer Joy Olinga said that 27 women and men's teams from different countries will take part.
They include Nairobi, Mombasa, Dar-es-Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, Arusha (TZ), Lubimbashi, Goma (DR Congo), Lusaka, Kitwe, Kigali, Luanda (Angola) Harare (Zimbabwe) and Seychelles. Jinja Municipality will be Uganda's second side in both men and women.
Ssebaana revealed that the City Council has contributed Shs36m of the Shs70m needed for the tournament.
"This is a big event on which we will be judged whether we can host other bigger tournaments. We therefore call on other well-wishers to come in and contribute so that we can successfully host it," he said.
KCC team manager and inter cities treasurer Joy Olinga said that 27 women and men's teams from different countries will take part.
They include Nairobi, Mombasa, Dar-es-Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, Arusha (TZ), Lubimbashi, Goma (DR Congo), Lusaka, Kitwe, Kigali, Luanda (Angola) Harare (Zimbabwe) and Seychelles. Jinja Municipality will be Uganda's second side in both men and women.
25 April 2006
ZIMBABWE: Cameo is again Harare champion
RODERICK TAKAWIRA'S profile continues to grow after the Cameo coach clinched his fourth successive Harare Basketball Association League title with three games to go.
All Cameo needed was a 103-50 thrashing of Mabvuku-based Faithwear Jammers to make sure that they successfully defended their title. Cameo are also the reigning national champions and will be hoping to maintain their status when the national tournament begins in a few weeks. "It is a good thing that the team has performed well this season but it does not mean that we are going to relax in the remaining games," said Takawira. Cameo have so far collected 52 points from 27 games with two defeats and even if they lose the last three games of the season they would still be ruling the roost. The champions are closely followed by Varsity Leopards who made a dramatic comeback to the top three as they have bagged 49 points with 22 wins and five defeats from the same number of games. Takawira, however, believes that the race for the women's title is still open and any of the top teams could claim it. "The women's league is still wide open and the league could be decided on the last week of the games," said Takawira. Results A League Gentlemen's Association 47, Kambuzuma All Stars 74; UZ Stars 41, Kingdom Cavaliers 54; Maxifix Pross 40, Celtics 56; Varsity Leopards 66, Mufakose Hawks 45; Jewels 52, Mbare Bulls 23; South Central 67, Golden Spurts 74; Celtics 81, Kambuzuma All Stars 52; Jewels 81, South Central 34; Cameo 103, Faithwear Jammers 50. B League Richwood 36, Mufakose Hawks 44. Women: Varsity Leopards 84, Mufakose Hawks 19, Varsity Leopards 93, UZ Stars 19.
All Cameo needed was a 103-50 thrashing of Mabvuku-based Faithwear Jammers to make sure that they successfully defended their title. Cameo are also the reigning national champions and will be hoping to maintain their status when the national tournament begins in a few weeks. "It is a good thing that the team has performed well this season but it does not mean that we are going to relax in the remaining games," said Takawira. Cameo have so far collected 52 points from 27 games with two defeats and even if they lose the last three games of the season they would still be ruling the roost. The champions are closely followed by Varsity Leopards who made a dramatic comeback to the top three as they have bagged 49 points with 22 wins and five defeats from the same number of games. Takawira, however, believes that the race for the women's title is still open and any of the top teams could claim it. "The women's league is still wide open and the league could be decided on the last week of the games," said Takawira. Results A League Gentlemen's Association 47, Kambuzuma All Stars 74; UZ Stars 41, Kingdom Cavaliers 54; Maxifix Pross 40, Celtics 56; Varsity Leopards 66, Mufakose Hawks 45; Jewels 52, Mbare Bulls 23; South Central 67, Golden Spurts 74; Celtics 81, Kambuzuma All Stars 52; Jewels 81, South Central 34; Cameo 103, Faithwear Jammers 50. B League Richwood 36, Mufakose Hawks 44. Women: Varsity Leopards 84, Mufakose Hawks 19, Varsity Leopards 93, UZ Stars 19.
NIGERIA: Union Bank beat Customs as Warriors humiliate Islanders
Union Bank further dimmed Nigeria Customs’ chance of redeeming their image last Saturday during the second game of the Vmobile Basketball League played at the Indoor Sports Hall of National Stadium in Lagos when the former handed a 83 –– 66 points defeat to the latter. This came a day after Dodan Warriors took former giants in the Atlantic Conference on some basketball lessons with 28 point defeat. Scores stood at 91-63 at the end of the game with the Warriors proprietor, Col. Sam Ahmedu (rtd.) Stressing that the difference was that his boys were younger and hungrier for victory.
Similarly, Tapgun Rockets had a bad day in Jos when city rivals, Plateau Peaks defeated them by 84 - 64 points while the third match in the Atlantic Conference between Ebun Comets and visiting Delta Force ended without any surprise as the Akure boys overwhelmed the Asaba team 73-62 also at the National Stadium in Lagos.
Union Bank took a commanding lead with six points but the Customs side handled by Scott Nnaji who appeared jittery initially battled the Bankers who were stylish and lost some vital free throws and shots at close range to the hoop. The first quarter became a hustle game with Union Bank taking the quarter at a wide gap of 15 - 11 points. As the second quarter resumed, Usman Usman for Customs led his team’s offense, but double teaming by Union Bank kept the Custom boys at bay.
Union Bank almost doubled their lead with a second quarter score of 40 - 22 points. In the third quarter, Union Bank’s Udeme Ekpeyong appeared to have woken up from a second quarter slumber as he became a thorn in the flesh of the Customs’ defense but the Customs side would not want to go down without fighting and then picked 21 points to Union Bank’s 17 to end the quarter at 57-43 in favour of Union.
In the last quarter, try as the Customs side did, Udeme Ekpeyong propelled the Emmanuel Okolo boys to a final onslaught to leave the final score at 83-66. In the other game played in the Savannah Conference, Plateau Peaks subdued a rampaging Tapgun Rockets team with aggressive rebounding and steals to keep an enterprising Tapgun team at bay and won by 84-64.
Similarly, Tapgun Rockets had a bad day in Jos when city rivals, Plateau Peaks defeated them by 84 - 64 points while the third match in the Atlantic Conference between Ebun Comets and visiting Delta Force ended without any surprise as the Akure boys overwhelmed the Asaba team 73-62 also at the National Stadium in Lagos.
Union Bank took a commanding lead with six points but the Customs side handled by Scott Nnaji who appeared jittery initially battled the Bankers who were stylish and lost some vital free throws and shots at close range to the hoop. The first quarter became a hustle game with Union Bank taking the quarter at a wide gap of 15 - 11 points. As the second quarter resumed, Usman Usman for Customs led his team’s offense, but double teaming by Union Bank kept the Custom boys at bay.
Union Bank almost doubled their lead with a second quarter score of 40 - 22 points. In the third quarter, Union Bank’s Udeme Ekpeyong appeared to have woken up from a second quarter slumber as he became a thorn in the flesh of the Customs’ defense but the Customs side would not want to go down without fighting and then picked 21 points to Union Bank’s 17 to end the quarter at 57-43 in favour of Union.
In the last quarter, try as the Customs side did, Udeme Ekpeyong propelled the Emmanuel Okolo boys to a final onslaught to leave the final score at 83-66. In the other game played in the Savannah Conference, Plateau Peaks subdued a rampaging Tapgun Rockets team with aggressive rebounding and steals to keep an enterprising Tapgun team at bay and won by 84-64.
NIGERIA: Vmobile League: Potters Slide Over Kano Pillars
Niger Potters of Minna opened their campaign at home in the Vmobile Premier Basketball League for this season on Sunday with a sneak victory over Kano Pillars. Former league champions, Potters defeated Pillars 58-57 to take a good stand on the table as the regular season swept past Week Three. It was the very first game at the Federal Government owned facility in Minna for this season. The gymnasium underwent extensive renovation by Vmobile, the sponsors of Nigeria’s flagship basketball championship.
The delay by the contractor in finishing the job that required changing the floor, roof and lightening system amongst others, forced the games at the venue to be on hold while Potters played their away game.
Before the two powerhouses of the Savannah Conference took to the court hardly anybody could make excellent predictions and it turned out so the host team managed only a points win. The result means that Pillars have lost their first game after going into the match unbeaten.
The match started and ran with a lot of suspense and fans had to wait until the buzzer before they could get a clear answer to the day’s result.
The result notwithstanding, both teams are highly tipped to make the Conference and national play offs from that zone.
In Lagos, Ebun Comets were pre-match favourites and the erstwhile champions lived up to the expectations by beating Delta Force 73-62 in a game played also Sunday night at the National Stadium, Lagos.
Delta Force led momentarily at 7-6 in the first quarter and that was the only time the Asaba-based team led all through the game. Comets took the first quarter 18-12 and won the second 19-14. When the teams returned from the break, the winners continued with a 14-12 win but Delta got back late and won the fourth quarter by 24-22 but their fight came too late.
“When we lost; it was just a normal and a good game as you could have seen,” the Delta coach Lati Erinfolami said after the game.
The result means that the Comets have won two out of the three games played so far but it means another loss for the other team. Delta Force, like the Customs are yet to win a game this season.
The delay by the contractor in finishing the job that required changing the floor, roof and lightening system amongst others, forced the games at the venue to be on hold while Potters played their away game.
Before the two powerhouses of the Savannah Conference took to the court hardly anybody could make excellent predictions and it turned out so the host team managed only a points win. The result means that Pillars have lost their first game after going into the match unbeaten.
The match started and ran with a lot of suspense and fans had to wait until the buzzer before they could get a clear answer to the day’s result.
The result notwithstanding, both teams are highly tipped to make the Conference and national play offs from that zone.
In Lagos, Ebun Comets were pre-match favourites and the erstwhile champions lived up to the expectations by beating Delta Force 73-62 in a game played also Sunday night at the National Stadium, Lagos.
Delta Force led momentarily at 7-6 in the first quarter and that was the only time the Asaba-based team led all through the game. Comets took the first quarter 18-12 and won the second 19-14. When the teams returned from the break, the winners continued with a 14-12 win but Delta got back late and won the fourth quarter by 24-22 but their fight came too late.
“When we lost; it was just a normal and a good game as you could have seen,” the Delta coach Lati Erinfolami said after the game.
The result means that the Comets have won two out of the three games played so far but it means another loss for the other team. Delta Force, like the Customs are yet to win a game this season.
KENYA: Four local clubs swing into action at Nyayo
The Zone Five East Central and Southern Africa Club championships start at the Nyayo Stadium basketball gymnasium with four Kenyan clubs in action.
Storms get the tournament underway at 10 am with a match against Berco Stars of Burundi in one of the three women's contests today. They will be followed on the court two hours later by Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) women who will be up against A1 Challenge of Uganda. The last women's match of the day will be between Cargo of Tanzania and University of Rwanda.
Ulinzi and Rwanda Patriotic Army (APR) meet in the first men's encounter at 4 pm followed by Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) against Runani from Burundi.
Storms captain Angela Luchivya said they have prepared well and are looking forward to a good tournament.
"We have played the teams from Rwanda and Burundi before and I believe that experience will be helpful. We have also started the league well winning our opening two matches against Dynamites and the USIU and we feel we have the momentum to start well today," she said.
Storms were in Rwanda in February to participate in the Heroes Cup tournament organised by APR. They won the title.
Former Storms and Ulinzi coach, Cliff Owuor is now at APR. He said has been there for the past year.
Storms get the tournament underway at 10 am with a match against Berco Stars of Burundi in one of the three women's contests today. They will be followed on the court two hours later by Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) women who will be up against A1 Challenge of Uganda. The last women's match of the day will be between Cargo of Tanzania and University of Rwanda.
Ulinzi and Rwanda Patriotic Army (APR) meet in the first men's encounter at 4 pm followed by Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) against Runani from Burundi.
Storms captain Angela Luchivya said they have prepared well and are looking forward to a good tournament.
"We have played the teams from Rwanda and Burundi before and I believe that experience will be helpful. We have also started the league well winning our opening two matches against Dynamites and the USIU and we feel we have the momentum to start well today," she said.
Storms were in Rwanda in February to participate in the Heroes Cup tournament organised by APR. They won the title.
Former Storms and Ulinzi coach, Cliff Owuor is now at APR. He said has been there for the past year.
KENYA: Kenya sides chase eighth title
Kenya men and women’s teams will be seeking to clinch their eighth East, Central and Southern Africa basketball club championship when the 12th edition starts at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium today.
Kenya will field five teams in both men and women’s sections by virtue of being hosts and also defending champions.
Kenya Commercial Bank Lions and Sprite Storms entered the regional tournament’s history books by winning the men and women’s titles for the first time in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania last year.
Kenyan clubs had continued to dominate the championship since its inception in Harare, Zimbabwe in 1995.
KCB Lions rocked Ulinzi Warriors 89-76 in all-Kenyan final to win the men’s trophy while Sprite Storms beat hosts Jeshi la Kujenga Taifa 82-74 to be crowned the new 2005 women’s queens. Storms, who were representing Kenya in the international tournament for the first time, had earlier lost to hosts JKT in the preliminary round.
Other Kenya’s representatives in this year’s men’s category are Ulinzi Warriors and Co-operative Bank of Kenya. Kenya Ports Authority, who became the first team to win the women’s league title three times in-a-row, will join defending champions Sprite Storms in Kenya’s bid to retain the Cup.
Kenya Basketball Federation chairman Agina Wesonga is optimistic that Kenya will use home court advantage to retain both titles for the eighth time. Wesonga said Kenya will have little opposition in the women’s section since KPA and Storms are well prepared to carry the day. The KBF boss has predicted an all Kenyan women’s final and asked fans to turn up in large numbers to cheer the teams.
But he cautioned the three men’s teams, KCB Lions, Co-op Bank and Ulinzi Warriorsagainst complacency because the teams from Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania had greatly improved their game standards.
"During last year’s performance in the regional senior Challenge Cup in Kampala, Uganda, Burundi featured youthfull players, who could give Kenya a run for their money this time’’ Wesonga said.
Both Kenya’s men and women’s clubs have continued to do the country pround by dominating the championship in the last 12 years. KCB Lionesses and Nairobi Posta (now Telkom) won the controversial inaugural event in Harare in 1995. Despite having had a poor start with only Kenyan teams playing their hosts Zimbabwe 12 year’s ago, the regional tournament has turned out to be competitive with many member countries entering their teams.
Kenya will field five teams in both men and women’s sections by virtue of being hosts and also defending champions.
Kenya Commercial Bank Lions and Sprite Storms entered the regional tournament’s history books by winning the men and women’s titles for the first time in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania last year.
Kenyan clubs had continued to dominate the championship since its inception in Harare, Zimbabwe in 1995.
KCB Lions rocked Ulinzi Warriors 89-76 in all-Kenyan final to win the men’s trophy while Sprite Storms beat hosts Jeshi la Kujenga Taifa 82-74 to be crowned the new 2005 women’s queens. Storms, who were representing Kenya in the international tournament for the first time, had earlier lost to hosts JKT in the preliminary round.
Other Kenya’s representatives in this year’s men’s category are Ulinzi Warriors and Co-operative Bank of Kenya. Kenya Ports Authority, who became the first team to win the women’s league title three times in-a-row, will join defending champions Sprite Storms in Kenya’s bid to retain the Cup.
Kenya Basketball Federation chairman Agina Wesonga is optimistic that Kenya will use home court advantage to retain both titles for the eighth time. Wesonga said Kenya will have little opposition in the women’s section since KPA and Storms are well prepared to carry the day. The KBF boss has predicted an all Kenyan women’s final and asked fans to turn up in large numbers to cheer the teams.
But he cautioned the three men’s teams, KCB Lions, Co-op Bank and Ulinzi Warriorsagainst complacency because the teams from Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania had greatly improved their game standards.
"During last year’s performance in the regional senior Challenge Cup in Kampala, Uganda, Burundi featured youthfull players, who could give Kenya a run for their money this time’’ Wesonga said.
Both Kenya’s men and women’s clubs have continued to do the country pround by dominating the championship in the last 12 years. KCB Lionesses and Nairobi Posta (now Telkom) won the controversial inaugural event in Harare in 1995. Despite having had a poor start with only Kenyan teams playing their hosts Zimbabwe 12 year’s ago, the regional tournament has turned out to be competitive with many member countries entering their teams.
UGANDA: Warriors go down to Rhino
Men
Rhinos 57 Warriors 55
UCU 60 Bush Courts 47
Women
MAK Cubs 55 Comets 37
MAK Sparks 55 Nabisunsa 27
CHARGING Rhinos secured two crucial points after a breath taking 57-55 win over Kyambogo Warriors in an MTN league game played on Sunday at YMCA-Wandegeya.
The first half ended 29-all but Mande Juruni (pictured) converted a rare three pointer from the half way line to give the 1997 league champions a 44-41 third quarter lead.
Both sides looked for a killer hoop in the last seconds and Juruni got the important throw from the line for a two points lead.
Warriors were broken further down after Ronnie Kasewu's effort that could have sent the game into over time, was ruled out.
Juruni 12 points of 5 were from out side the arc, while new signing Richard Okila made 16 as Rhino got their second win of the season. Steven Okias notched 20 and Nelson Wafula added 15 in a losing effort.
The Yello Go conference game had Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono beat Bush Courts 60-47.
In the women's side, Marion Nakaziba and Vicky Nasolo made 10 and 8 points respectively as Makerere University Sparks overcame Nabisunsa Girls 55-27. Charlene Kalungi and Halima Nabusimba had 12 and 6 points and Joyce Zalwango added 5 for the young school girls.
In the other game, Sarah Nasuna's 18 points helped MAK Cubs overcome Kyambogo Comets for which Japa Rosemary was the scorer with 22 points.
Rhinos 57 Warriors 55
UCU 60 Bush Courts 47
Women
MAK Cubs 55 Comets 37
MAK Sparks 55 Nabisunsa 27
CHARGING Rhinos secured two crucial points after a breath taking 57-55 win over Kyambogo Warriors in an MTN league game played on Sunday at YMCA-Wandegeya.
The first half ended 29-all but Mande Juruni (pictured) converted a rare three pointer from the half way line to give the 1997 league champions a 44-41 third quarter lead.
Both sides looked for a killer hoop in the last seconds and Juruni got the important throw from the line for a two points lead.
Warriors were broken further down after Ronnie Kasewu's effort that could have sent the game into over time, was ruled out.
Juruni 12 points of 5 were from out side the arc, while new signing Richard Okila made 16 as Rhino got their second win of the season. Steven Okias notched 20 and Nelson Wafula added 15 in a losing effort.
The Yello Go conference game had Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono beat Bush Courts 60-47.
In the women's side, Marion Nakaziba and Vicky Nasolo made 10 and 8 points respectively as Makerere University Sparks overcame Nabisunsa Girls 55-27. Charlene Kalungi and Halima Nabusimba had 12 and 6 points and Joyce Zalwango added 5 for the young school girls.
In the other game, Sarah Nasuna's 18 points helped MAK Cubs overcome Kyambogo Comets for which Japa Rosemary was the scorer with 22 points.
KENYA: Team Should Aim Much Higher
The East, Central and Southern African Basketball Championships start in Nairobi tomorrow. While it is alright to see some international action in Nairobi, there is little to be excited about.
We say so because Kenya has not had any more international exposure beyond the regional tournament, in which it has taken part for more than a decade.
The participation in the contest is not a bad thing, only that it has contributed to the steady decline of the game in Kenya.
It is by playing better teams mainly on the continental and intercontinental stage that standards of our game can improve.
Kenya's participation in African championships has been rare with the last major international assignment being the All African Games in Abuja in 2003, in which the women's team took part.
Before then, the women's team had played in the African championships in Nairobi in 1998, while the men last played in Africa in 1993.
In between, clubs such as the Kenya Ports Authority and Ulinzi have made token appearances in the continental club championships.
With the regional championships the only available challenge, the standards have fallen to dismal levels, while the other regional teams, which previously would not have raised a team against Kenya, have prospered.Going by the standards of the game 10 years ago, the regional tournaments should have been left to junior teams.
The Kenya Basketball Federation officials have cited lack of money as the reason for not sending teams to African championships. We say that is not an excuse.
The reason they were elected is to find the money to run the game and ensure Kenya plays at the highest level possible. If they cannot do that, they have no business occupying those offices.
We say so because Kenya has not had any more international exposure beyond the regional tournament, in which it has taken part for more than a decade.
The participation in the contest is not a bad thing, only that it has contributed to the steady decline of the game in Kenya.
It is by playing better teams mainly on the continental and intercontinental stage that standards of our game can improve.
Kenya's participation in African championships has been rare with the last major international assignment being the All African Games in Abuja in 2003, in which the women's team took part.
Before then, the women's team had played in the African championships in Nairobi in 1998, while the men last played in Africa in 1993.
In between, clubs such as the Kenya Ports Authority and Ulinzi have made token appearances in the continental club championships.
With the regional championships the only available challenge, the standards have fallen to dismal levels, while the other regional teams, which previously would not have raised a team against Kenya, have prospered.Going by the standards of the game 10 years ago, the regional tournaments should have been left to junior teams.
The Kenya Basketball Federation officials have cited lack of money as the reason for not sending teams to African championships. We say that is not an excuse.
The reason they were elected is to find the money to run the game and ensure Kenya plays at the highest level possible. If they cannot do that, they have no business occupying those offices.
24 April 2006
NIGERIA: Unbeaten Run for Warriors, Losing Streak for Customs
The Vmobile Premier Basketball League played through Week Three by the weekend with different results for the various teams in the championship. While it was a continued run of unbeaten position for Dodan Warriors, it was another week of defeat for the Nigeria Customs team.
In the Savannah Conference, visiting Yelwa Hawks taught the AHIP Giants some basketball tricks in the game played in Kano by dishing out a two point defeat to their host in overtime. The Warriors’ game against former champions Lagos Islanders was highly advertised and the game lived up to the billing as every point was well fought for. At the end of the game Dodan Warriors won by a massive 91- 63 points.
“We didn’t play well because some of my players got carried away by the results of the first two games. But that notwithstanding the officiating was not in the best interest of the game. The two referees are soldiers officiating in a game we are playing against Dodan Warriors. So in times when the referees had to use their judgment in 50/50 calls, it went in favour of the Warriors. And when 90% of such calls go to one team, the other team can never win that game,” Toyin Sonoiki of the Islanders said after the game.
The Islanders were the bookmakers’ favourites but they lost every quarter of the exciting match to their opponents. The result means that Dodan Warriors remain unbeaten, as both teams had entered the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos with maximum points from their previous games.
Twenty-four hours after that game Customs played as hosts to the Union Back team in the same venue and the story was all sad for the Customs. They lost 83-66, which explains that they are yet to win a game this season despite qualifying for the play offs of the Vmobile Challenge last season.
Customs won the last quarter of the game by 26-23 points but at that point their fans had given up having watched the green and white team play as under-matched team to the Bankers who won the Vmobile Challenge.
In Kaduna the local derby of Plateau Peaks and Tapgun Rockets ended 84-64 in favour of Peaks. Although Tapgun battled their opponents for point, the result followed the prediction of experts. The Jos teams play their games in Kaduna.
In the Savannah Conference, visiting Yelwa Hawks taught the AHIP Giants some basketball tricks in the game played in Kano by dishing out a two point defeat to their host in overtime. The Warriors’ game against former champions Lagos Islanders was highly advertised and the game lived up to the billing as every point was well fought for. At the end of the game Dodan Warriors won by a massive 91- 63 points.
“We didn’t play well because some of my players got carried away by the results of the first two games. But that notwithstanding the officiating was not in the best interest of the game. The two referees are soldiers officiating in a game we are playing against Dodan Warriors. So in times when the referees had to use their judgment in 50/50 calls, it went in favour of the Warriors. And when 90% of such calls go to one team, the other team can never win that game,” Toyin Sonoiki of the Islanders said after the game.
The Islanders were the bookmakers’ favourites but they lost every quarter of the exciting match to their opponents. The result means that Dodan Warriors remain unbeaten, as both teams had entered the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos with maximum points from their previous games.
Twenty-four hours after that game Customs played as hosts to the Union Back team in the same venue and the story was all sad for the Customs. They lost 83-66, which explains that they are yet to win a game this season despite qualifying for the play offs of the Vmobile Challenge last season.
Customs won the last quarter of the game by 26-23 points but at that point their fans had given up having watched the green and white team play as under-matched team to the Bankers who won the Vmobile Challenge.
In Kaduna the local derby of Plateau Peaks and Tapgun Rockets ended 84-64 in favour of Peaks. Although Tapgun battled their opponents for point, the result followed the prediction of experts. The Jos teams play their games in Kaduna.
23 April 2006
15th ANC U18 FOR MEN
The calendars for the preliminaries qualify for the 15th Africa Nations Championship U18 for Men is established according to the following schedule.
It is necessary to notice that the first of each preliminary round games will be qualified for the final round where they will play against South Africa (Organising country) and the first four of the last edition comprised of Nigeria, Angola, Mali and Algeria.
Zone 1
Organising country : Libya (03 – 05 July 2006)
Participants : Morocco, Libya
Zone 2
Organising country : Guinea Conakry (20 - 27 May 2006)
Participants : Senegal, Guinea, Mauritania, Cape Verde
Zone 3:
Organising country : Niger (20 - 28 May 2006)
Participants : Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina, Niger, Liberia, Ghana
Zone 4:
Organising country : Congo Brazzaville
Participants : Centrafrique, RD Congo, Congo Brazzaville
Zone 5:
Organising country : Burundi (20 – 27 May 2006)
Participants : Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda
It is necessary to notice that the first of each preliminary round games will be qualified for the final round where they will play against South Africa (Organising country) and the first four of the last edition comprised of Nigeria, Angola, Mali and Algeria.
Zone 1
Organising country : Libya (03 – 05 July 2006)
Participants : Morocco, Libya
Zone 2
Organising country : Guinea Conakry (20 - 27 May 2006)
Participants : Senegal, Guinea, Mauritania, Cape Verde
Zone 3:
Organising country : Niger (20 - 28 May 2006)
Participants : Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina, Niger, Liberia, Ghana
Zone 4:
Organising country : Congo Brazzaville
Participants : Centrafrique, RD Congo, Congo Brazzaville
Zone 5:
Organising country : Burundi (20 – 27 May 2006)
Participants : Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda
UGANDA: KIU beaten in Gulu, as Power win
Women
Leopards 20 Ndejje 00 (w/o)
Men
Gulu Hawks 75 KIU 60
SPENA 65 MBC Rocks 77
Vegetarians 31 MAK Youth 53
Gulu Hawks 69 Miracle 74
Power 92 Livingstone 82
Div II
KCC Lions 78 Crane High 72
KAMPALA International University (KIU) had a miserable trip to the North when they got beaten 75-60 to Gulu Hawks in the MTN league Yello Max game played at the Carrebian courts yesterday.
The hosts recovered from a 69-74 loss to visiting Miracle on Saturday and were all out with reliable Denis Akena notching 22, while Peter Owiny added 19 to seal off KIU's dull season. Isaac Afidra never traveled with the team, but Emma Baguma who was fouled out in the first minute of the last quarter made 16 points.
At YMCA-Kampala, Ken Balyejusa regained his form with 21 points to help Sadolin Power maintain their winning streak after a game high 92-82 score over promoted Livingstone. Wilbrod Okecho made 18 while Mike Kariuki and Richard Balemwa contributed 15 and 14 points respectively. Peter Elungati and Martin Okello notched 26 and 25 in a losing effort.
Leopards 20 Ndejje 00 (w/o)
Men
Gulu Hawks 75 KIU 60
SPENA 65 MBC Rocks 77
Vegetarians 31 MAK Youth 53
Gulu Hawks 69 Miracle 74
Power 92 Livingstone 82
Div II
KCC Lions 78 Crane High 72
KAMPALA International University (KIU) had a miserable trip to the North when they got beaten 75-60 to Gulu Hawks in the MTN league Yello Max game played at the Carrebian courts yesterday.
The hosts recovered from a 69-74 loss to visiting Miracle on Saturday and were all out with reliable Denis Akena notching 22, while Peter Owiny added 19 to seal off KIU's dull season. Isaac Afidra never traveled with the team, but Emma Baguma who was fouled out in the first minute of the last quarter made 16 points.
At YMCA-Kampala, Ken Balyejusa regained his form with 21 points to help Sadolin Power maintain their winning streak after a game high 92-82 score over promoted Livingstone. Wilbrod Okecho made 18 while Mike Kariuki and Richard Balemwa contributed 15 and 14 points respectively. Peter Elungati and Martin Okello notched 26 and 25 in a losing effort.
UGANDA: A-1 Challenge , Marines off for regional tourney
UGANDA’S basketball giant sides Nkumba Marines (men) and A-1 Challenge (women) leave today for the East and Central Africa basketball Club Championships.
The regional championship will be held at the Nyayo stadium from April 24 to 30 in Nairobi,Kenya.
Nkumba Marines who have largely been sponsored by Nkumba University leave aboard Akamba bus, while A-1 Challenge will travel by Busscar and Scandinavian Bus services who also sponsored them. Mega Pix, Kenya Airways, Kaga Ltd, and Castle Lager are the other companies that supported A-1 Challenge.
“ We are going to play our hearts out and give a good account,” Nkumba’s Sports Tutor Patrick Ssebuliba told Daily Monitor yesterday. The MTN League women champions A-1 Challenge have showed some steady improvement and togetherness over the years also vowed to go all out.
“ We must give our best,” said senior player Rosette Meya. According to the organisers, 12 teams from six countries have confirmed participation. Teams from Kenya are; Co-operative bank, Ulinzi Warriors and KCB Lions(men), Sprite Storms, KPA (women).
The regional championship will be held at the Nyayo stadium from April 24 to 30 in Nairobi,Kenya.
Nkumba Marines who have largely been sponsored by Nkumba University leave aboard Akamba bus, while A-1 Challenge will travel by Busscar and Scandinavian Bus services who also sponsored them. Mega Pix, Kenya Airways, Kaga Ltd, and Castle Lager are the other companies that supported A-1 Challenge.
“ We are going to play our hearts out and give a good account,” Nkumba’s Sports Tutor Patrick Ssebuliba told Daily Monitor yesterday. The MTN League women champions A-1 Challenge have showed some steady improvement and togetherness over the years also vowed to go all out.
“ We must give our best,” said senior player Rosette Meya. According to the organisers, 12 teams from six countries have confirmed participation. Teams from Kenya are; Co-operative bank, Ulinzi Warriors and KCB Lions(men), Sprite Storms, KPA (women).
22 April 2006
NIGERIA: Warriors Battle Islanders as Vmobile League Resumes
The Vmobile Premier Basketball League which was put on break for the National Sports Festival will resume this afternoon with games across the Atlantic and Savannah Conferences. The League Director of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Muktar Malone Khaleh confirm to THISDAY that the matches will hold as scheduled.
“The league will restart Friday (today) with matches as scheduled. The fixtures from the first day took care of the Census and Sports Festival period and that is the way it stands,” Khaleh said.
With that Dodan Warriors will play as hosts to former league champions Lagos Islanders today at the National Stadium in Lagos. The game will hold at the regular time of 4.00pm. For followers of the Vmobile League it is certain it is a high quality game. The game will clearly determine the leader of the Atlantic region for the current regular season as both teams are the only ones yet to drop a point. The Warriors remain on top of the table with positive goals aggregate. And for bookmakers it is a tough one to predict.
In the Savannah sector, the league returns from the Kano centre where AHIP will be at home against Yelwa Hawks. It will return to normal business as the Kano gym has hosted games every weekend since the league began. On paper Yelwa Hawks have better record but nobody can say now how far such record can help their cause today.
And still in the Savannah Conference for tomorrow and Sunday matches will hold in Jos and Minna. In Jos, it is a local derby tomorrow between Plateau Peaks and their former feeder team Tapgun Rockets. A win for the Rockets will be recorded as classical upset.
The game in Minna is significant for a particular reason. It will be the first game in Minna this season. The Federal Government owned facility was under extensive renovation courtesy of the league sponsors, Vmobile. The floor section could not be completed before the league went on break.
Back to the Atlantic Conference, the game tomorrow is a tough one between the Customs and the Union Bank Clubs. The Customs are yet to win a game. On Sunday Ebun Comets will be hosts to Delta Force of Asaba in the final game of this weekend.
Going by the fixtures, there will not be any break until the regular season runs through by June.
“The league will restart Friday (today) with matches as scheduled. The fixtures from the first day took care of the Census and Sports Festival period and that is the way it stands,” Khaleh said.
With that Dodan Warriors will play as hosts to former league champions Lagos Islanders today at the National Stadium in Lagos. The game will hold at the regular time of 4.00pm. For followers of the Vmobile League it is certain it is a high quality game. The game will clearly determine the leader of the Atlantic region for the current regular season as both teams are the only ones yet to drop a point. The Warriors remain on top of the table with positive goals aggregate. And for bookmakers it is a tough one to predict.
In the Savannah sector, the league returns from the Kano centre where AHIP will be at home against Yelwa Hawks. It will return to normal business as the Kano gym has hosted games every weekend since the league began. On paper Yelwa Hawks have better record but nobody can say now how far such record can help their cause today.
And still in the Savannah Conference for tomorrow and Sunday matches will hold in Jos and Minna. In Jos, it is a local derby tomorrow between Plateau Peaks and their former feeder team Tapgun Rockets. A win for the Rockets will be recorded as classical upset.
The game in Minna is significant for a particular reason. It will be the first game in Minna this season. The Federal Government owned facility was under extensive renovation courtesy of the league sponsors, Vmobile. The floor section could not be completed before the league went on break.
Back to the Atlantic Conference, the game tomorrow is a tough one between the Customs and the Union Bank Clubs. The Customs are yet to win a game. On Sunday Ebun Comets will be hosts to Delta Force of Asaba in the final game of this weekend.
Going by the fixtures, there will not be any break until the regular season runs through by June.
KENYA: Laiser Hill confront Aquinas in boys’ basketball
By PHIONAH MWADILO
National basketball champions Mombasa High School will play Tigoi Girls from Western Province in the finals of this year’s Kenya Secondary Schools term one ball games at the Shimo-la-Tewa grounds today.
In boys’ basketball, Aquinas High School will meet Laiser Hill High in the finals. In yesterday’s semis, Mombasa High girls proved too powerful for Raliew Girls when they thrashed them 129-30 in a one-sided encounter.
The defending champions dominated the entire match and were already 30-7 up by the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, Raliew Girls tried to contain the Mombasa side, but their efforts failed to yield any fruits as their opponents proved a more polished side.
Mombasa’s Brenda Wasuda shot several three pointers that stretched her side’s advantage to a 50-13 lead by half time. By the end of the match, Mombasa’s Beatrice Awino had collected 42 points, while Priscah Moraa had contributed a further 16. Raliew’s Olaga Atieno and Peninah Anyango managed14 and 12 points respectively.
It was, however, not so smooth sailing for the other finalists, Tigoi Girls, who were stretched to the limits by a hard-fighting Menengai High School before they eventually won the match 85-71.
In the first quarter, Tigoi struggled to settle down, but eventually carried it 16-14.
In the second quarter, Tigoi’s Yvonne Mashedi inspired her side with several three pointers to a 43-21 lead by the break.
Mashedi managed17 points, while her teammate, Rachel Muhadia, contributed 28 points.
Menengai’s Okondo Awino collected 15 points, while Ombima Adiama had 31 points.
In the boys’ semi-final, Laiser Hill High School overcame stiff opposition from Friends School Kamusinga, before they narrowly won the match 98-94.
The match started slowly, but heated up in the second quarter with both sides exhibiting great flair and composure. By the break, the two teams had almost tied 42-41 to the advantage of Laiser Hill. Laiser Hill were a bit shaky in the third quarter, and were guilty of losing balls under pressure.
But a few minutes to the end of the quarter, Laiser Hill brought in Victor Zakaro and Richard Ndong who had started on the bench and the two turned the game around for the victors.
And as the quarter progressed, Kamusinga displayed some great passing and amassed a 78-75 lead. The lead was, however, to be short-lived, as Laiser Hill later overturned the result to 87-84 in their favour by the end of the quarter.
By the final whistle, Laiser Hill prevailed 98-94.
Laiser Hill’s Gift Nyongesa managed 20 points, while his teammate, Leonel Mayake, contributed 19 points.
Kamusinga’s Antony Gitonga was the top scorer of the game with 40 points, with teammate Bak Boi Bak contributing 22 points. In the other semi-final, Aquinas beat Mang’u boys 45-35.
Mang’u took a lead of 11-06 in the first quarter, but lost their way in the second after Aquinas sealed their loopholes. Aquinas’ Anthony Chidi and Kevin Samora managed 15 points a piece.
National basketball champions Mombasa High School will play Tigoi Girls from Western Province in the finals of this year’s Kenya Secondary Schools term one ball games at the Shimo-la-Tewa grounds today.
In boys’ basketball, Aquinas High School will meet Laiser Hill High in the finals. In yesterday’s semis, Mombasa High girls proved too powerful for Raliew Girls when they thrashed them 129-30 in a one-sided encounter.
The defending champions dominated the entire match and were already 30-7 up by the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, Raliew Girls tried to contain the Mombasa side, but their efforts failed to yield any fruits as their opponents proved a more polished side.
Mombasa’s Brenda Wasuda shot several three pointers that stretched her side’s advantage to a 50-13 lead by half time. By the end of the match, Mombasa’s Beatrice Awino had collected 42 points, while Priscah Moraa had contributed a further 16. Raliew’s Olaga Atieno and Peninah Anyango managed14 and 12 points respectively.
It was, however, not so smooth sailing for the other finalists, Tigoi Girls, who were stretched to the limits by a hard-fighting Menengai High School before they eventually won the match 85-71.
In the first quarter, Tigoi struggled to settle down, but eventually carried it 16-14.
In the second quarter, Tigoi’s Yvonne Mashedi inspired her side with several three pointers to a 43-21 lead by the break.
Mashedi managed17 points, while her teammate, Rachel Muhadia, contributed 28 points.
Menengai’s Okondo Awino collected 15 points, while Ombima Adiama had 31 points.
In the boys’ semi-final, Laiser Hill High School overcame stiff opposition from Friends School Kamusinga, before they narrowly won the match 98-94.
The match started slowly, but heated up in the second quarter with both sides exhibiting great flair and composure. By the break, the two teams had almost tied 42-41 to the advantage of Laiser Hill. Laiser Hill were a bit shaky in the third quarter, and were guilty of losing balls under pressure.
But a few minutes to the end of the quarter, Laiser Hill brought in Victor Zakaro and Richard Ndong who had started on the bench and the two turned the game around for the victors.
And as the quarter progressed, Kamusinga displayed some great passing and amassed a 78-75 lead. The lead was, however, to be short-lived, as Laiser Hill later overturned the result to 87-84 in their favour by the end of the quarter.
By the final whistle, Laiser Hill prevailed 98-94.
Laiser Hill’s Gift Nyongesa managed 20 points, while his teammate, Leonel Mayake, contributed 19 points.
Kamusinga’s Antony Gitonga was the top scorer of the game with 40 points, with teammate Bak Boi Bak contributing 22 points. In the other semi-final, Aquinas beat Mang’u boys 45-35.
Mang’u took a lead of 11-06 in the first quarter, but lost their way in the second after Aquinas sealed their loopholes. Aquinas’ Anthony Chidi and Kevin Samora managed 15 points a piece.
UGANDA: Falcons face tricky Najja
Men
SPENA v MBC Rocks
Vegetarians v MAK Youth
Hawks v Miracle
B. Jackets v S. Jammers
Falcons v Najja High
Women
KCC v Ndejje University
Div II
Lubiri High v Kabojja SS
KCC Lions v Crane High
AFTER a four-day MTN basketball league restless Easter holiday, action gets resumes today with former champions Falcons facing Najja High School in the top Yello Max conference game.
The five-time league winners lost their opening game to defending champions Marines but regained their winning touch with a 66-43 win over lowly Livingstone last weekend.
The Malinga's Eric and Henry, together with experienced Sam Obol are still the beckon of hope for the Nakulabye based side, while new signings Jackson Kikonyogo, Charles Suubi and Sadiq Mugisha are yet to cop up with the new experience.
Najja have lost the composure with Eric Nyamai and Salim Ali having joined Marines. They have lost two consecutive games to Sadolin Power and Miracle BC.
Promoted Gulu Hawks host Miracle at the Carrebian courts in the other Yello Max contest.
SPENA v MBC Rocks
Vegetarians v MAK Youth
Hawks v Miracle
B. Jackets v S. Jammers
Falcons v Najja High
Women
KCC v Ndejje University
Div II
Lubiri High v Kabojja SS
KCC Lions v Crane High
AFTER a four-day MTN basketball league restless Easter holiday, action gets resumes today with former champions Falcons facing Najja High School in the top Yello Max conference game.
The five-time league winners lost their opening game to defending champions Marines but regained their winning touch with a 66-43 win over lowly Livingstone last weekend.
The Malinga's Eric and Henry, together with experienced Sam Obol are still the beckon of hope for the Nakulabye based side, while new signings Jackson Kikonyogo, Charles Suubi and Sadiq Mugisha are yet to cop up with the new experience.
Najja have lost the composure with Eric Nyamai and Salim Ali having joined Marines. They have lost two consecutive games to Sadolin Power and Miracle BC.
Promoted Gulu Hawks host Miracle at the Carrebian courts in the other Yello Max contest.
LIBERIA: LBF Coaching Course Rescheduled
A weeklong international national coaching course for coaches of the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) has taken a new date.
According to the Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) Fred Pratt, the change in date is due to the change in arrival of the course expert Mr. Selon Janet in the country.
Mr. Pratt said the Mr. Selon Janet was due in the country on Sunday, April 23, but had some plight program.
He also said because of the change in the date the course will now commence on Wednesday, April 26, at which time the expert will be in the country. The course was earlier scheduled for Monday, April 24.
The local basketball house chief noted that it is mandatory that all coaches attend this workshop as this will assist coaches improve on the development of the game.
The LBF is also requesting that clubs should send only two coaches each to attend this all importance workshop and a minimum free of LD$150.00 will be charged as registration per person.
"Please be informed that only coaches who attend the workshop will be allowed to participate in the 2006/2007 league," the release said.
"As you are aware, lot of changes has been made in the rules of the game; this is why it is necessary that you attend," he concluded.
According to the Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) Fred Pratt, the change in date is due to the change in arrival of the course expert Mr. Selon Janet in the country.
Mr. Pratt said the Mr. Selon Janet was due in the country on Sunday, April 23, but had some plight program.
He also said because of the change in the date the course will now commence on Wednesday, April 26, at which time the expert will be in the country. The course was earlier scheduled for Monday, April 24.
The local basketball house chief noted that it is mandatory that all coaches attend this workshop as this will assist coaches improve on the development of the game.
The LBF is also requesting that clubs should send only two coaches each to attend this all importance workshop and a minimum free of LD$150.00 will be charged as registration per person.
"Please be informed that only coaches who attend the workshop will be allowed to participate in the 2006/2007 league," the release said.
"As you are aware, lot of changes has been made in the rules of the game; this is why it is necessary that you attend," he concluded.
LIBERIA: Who Qualifies For LBF Playoff?
The Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) National championship league has completed its first phase and the question of who sails through to the next round of the competition has been asked in many quarters.
Now with the completion on Sunday, April 16 at the Sports Commission to end the speculation, the local basketball house has released the names of the qualified teams in the various divisions for the next round, which many basketball lovers consider to be the most crucial stage of the competition.
With only four teams from the various divisions -- LPRC-Oilers, NPA-Pythons, Uhuru Kings and Invincible Eleven (I.E) -- as the luckier ones for the first division, leaving Flames, Venture Knights, Mighty Barrolle and Busdrod Bulls quest for the race to come to an end.
T-Chons, Sacbase, Filp Stars and Dreams-I managed to secure the second division slot over Supreme Brother, Don Bosco Legend and Uhuru Prince.
The introduction of third division basketball in the LBF calendar was no mistake as the sixteen teams showed class with eight securing places for the most crucial stage of the LBF playoff.
They include Wild Cats, Edinah Panthers, St. Paul Crushers and Heats. The rest are Commissioners, Urban Invaders, Deviers and George Raptors.
The qualifications of these eight teams dashed the hopes of Dream Team-II, Cardinals. Island Calves, Piston Magic, B. Celtics, B. Snipers, Cestor Mogars and Road Runners.
The female division that was highly contested by six teams saw four booking their places.
Current female champions K-Deltas that began the competition on a bad footing appeared to be set to defend her title when she finished first on the six teams table.
The Deltas is joined by Phoenix, Angle Shooter and Commission in completing the list for the female category.
Meanwhile the local basketball house says the playoff will begin on Friday, April 22, at the Sports Commission on Broad Street.
In a feature release, third side Wild Cats will meet Edinah Panthers in the first game; in the second division Sacbase will engage Dream Team while NPA-Pythons and Uhuru Kings will come face to face in the day's last action.
The competition will continue on Saturday and Sunday at the same venue.
Now with the completion on Sunday, April 16 at the Sports Commission to end the speculation, the local basketball house has released the names of the qualified teams in the various divisions for the next round, which many basketball lovers consider to be the most crucial stage of the competition.
With only four teams from the various divisions -- LPRC-Oilers, NPA-Pythons, Uhuru Kings and Invincible Eleven (I.E) -- as the luckier ones for the first division, leaving Flames, Venture Knights, Mighty Barrolle and Busdrod Bulls quest for the race to come to an end.
T-Chons, Sacbase, Filp Stars and Dreams-I managed to secure the second division slot over Supreme Brother, Don Bosco Legend and Uhuru Prince.
The introduction of third division basketball in the LBF calendar was no mistake as the sixteen teams showed class with eight securing places for the most crucial stage of the LBF playoff.
They include Wild Cats, Edinah Panthers, St. Paul Crushers and Heats. The rest are Commissioners, Urban Invaders, Deviers and George Raptors.
The qualifications of these eight teams dashed the hopes of Dream Team-II, Cardinals. Island Calves, Piston Magic, B. Celtics, B. Snipers, Cestor Mogars and Road Runners.
The female division that was highly contested by six teams saw four booking their places.
Current female champions K-Deltas that began the competition on a bad footing appeared to be set to defend her title when she finished first on the six teams table.
The Deltas is joined by Phoenix, Angle Shooter and Commission in completing the list for the female category.
Meanwhile the local basketball house says the playoff will begin on Friday, April 22, at the Sports Commission on Broad Street.
In a feature release, third side Wild Cats will meet Edinah Panthers in the first game; in the second division Sacbase will engage Dream Team while NPA-Pythons and Uhuru Kings will come face to face in the day's last action.
The competition will continue on Saturday and Sunday at the same venue.
21 April 2006
ZIMBABWE: BUZ under fire
By Paul Munyuki
THE Basketball Union of Zimbabwe has come under fire for changing the format for the national championships this year.
BUZ announced that four teams from Harare and the top team from Bulawayo will have automatic qualification for the quarter-finals. This will leave the other 13 teams fighting for the remaining three places for the quarter-finals. The playoff for the other three quarter-final slot would be played at three centres in Mutare, Gweru and Bulawayo. Normally all teams have to compete for a place in the quarter-finals. Now most of the club and provincial representatives want BUZ to go back to the drawing board and change the format. "How can there be five teams getting automatic qualification for the quarter-finals and giving the last three slots to more than 10 clubs? "The only team that could have got an automatic slot for the quarters is Cameo who are the defending champions," said one official from Bulawayo. In the HBA league games this weekend, Cameo need to beat Faithwear Jammers to clinch the league title for the fourth successive title. Fixtures A-League: Gentlemen’s Association v Kambuzuma All Stars, UZ Stars v Kingdom Cavaliers, Maxifix Pross v Celtics, Varsity Leopards v Mufakose Hawks, Jewels v Mbare Bulls, South Central v Golden Spurs, Celtics v Kambuzuma All Stars, Jewels v South Central, Faithwear Jammers v Cameo. B-League: Richwood v Stormers, Drifters v Sigauke, Richwood v Mufakose Hawks, Stormers v Airforce Falcons. Women: Varsity Leopards v Mufakose Hawks, Varsity Leopards v UZ Stars.
THE Basketball Union of Zimbabwe has come under fire for changing the format for the national championships this year.
BUZ announced that four teams from Harare and the top team from Bulawayo will have automatic qualification for the quarter-finals. This will leave the other 13 teams fighting for the remaining three places for the quarter-finals. The playoff for the other three quarter-final slot would be played at three centres in Mutare, Gweru and Bulawayo. Normally all teams have to compete for a place in the quarter-finals. Now most of the club and provincial representatives want BUZ to go back to the drawing board and change the format. "How can there be five teams getting automatic qualification for the quarter-finals and giving the last three slots to more than 10 clubs? "The only team that could have got an automatic slot for the quarters is Cameo who are the defending champions," said one official from Bulawayo. In the HBA league games this weekend, Cameo need to beat Faithwear Jammers to clinch the league title for the fourth successive title. Fixtures A-League: Gentlemen’s Association v Kambuzuma All Stars, UZ Stars v Kingdom Cavaliers, Maxifix Pross v Celtics, Varsity Leopards v Mufakose Hawks, Jewels v Mbare Bulls, South Central v Golden Spurs, Celtics v Kambuzuma All Stars, Jewels v South Central, Faithwear Jammers v Cameo. B-League: Richwood v Stormers, Drifters v Sigauke, Richwood v Mufakose Hawks, Stormers v Airforce Falcons. Women: Varsity Leopards v Mufakose Hawks, Varsity Leopards v UZ Stars.
KENYA: Mombasa High Knock Out Kamukunji
Defending champions Mombasa High School sent long-time rivals Kamukunji Secondary School packing from the national secondary schools games girls' basketball contest when they hit them 81-32 in a one sided match at Shimo La Tewa secondary to qualify for the semi finals.
Lydia Wafula of Sikinwa High School from Rifty Valley province, clears the bar in the girls high jump during the on going national secondary schools first term ball games at the Shanzu Teachers Training College. PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU.
This means that Kamukunji Secondary, the former school champions, will miss the girls' basketball semi-finals for the first time in six years.
Mombasa took a 17-4 first quarter lead.
Irene Wanyama, a younger sister of KPA and Kenya star forward Gladys Wanyama, did most of the damage for Kumukunji, nailing two three pointers and a number of perimeter shots.
Wanyama scored game high 32 points while Beatrice Awino and Brenda Wasuda scored 18 and 15 points respectively.
Salma Akinyi Garang scored 10 points while Irene Anyango scored eight points for Kamukunji.
In the other girls' match, Tigoi Girls defeated Moi Girls Kibwezi of Eastern 112-28 to book their ticket for the semi-finals.
In boys' matches, Aquinas of Nairobi upset East African secondary schools champions Laiser Hill Academy of Rift Valley 57-50 to enter semi finals. Aquinas also beat St Charles Lwanga of Eastern Province 105-27.
Meanwhile, championship organisers have dismissed an appeal by Coast Secondary Schools Sports Association following the suspension of Shimba Hills forward Philip Amenyi.According to the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association secretary David Ngugi, the officials stood by the earlier decision to award Kisumu Day the match and suspend Amenyi who transferred from Maseno to Shimba Hills.
The Coast body, however, insisted that student had been a victim of circumstances, saying clearance from one school to another had never been an issue when deciding the eligibility of a player.
"If we were to start looking at the clearance of students, then most of the schools at the national championships would have to pack up and go because they have recruited players from other schools," a coast official said.
Lydia Wafula of Sikinwa High School from Rifty Valley province, clears the bar in the girls high jump during the on going national secondary schools first term ball games at the Shanzu Teachers Training College. PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU.
This means that Kamukunji Secondary, the former school champions, will miss the girls' basketball semi-finals for the first time in six years.
Mombasa took a 17-4 first quarter lead.
Irene Wanyama, a younger sister of KPA and Kenya star forward Gladys Wanyama, did most of the damage for Kumukunji, nailing two three pointers and a number of perimeter shots.
Wanyama scored game high 32 points while Beatrice Awino and Brenda Wasuda scored 18 and 15 points respectively.
Salma Akinyi Garang scored 10 points while Irene Anyango scored eight points for Kamukunji.
In the other girls' match, Tigoi Girls defeated Moi Girls Kibwezi of Eastern 112-28 to book their ticket for the semi-finals.
In boys' matches, Aquinas of Nairobi upset East African secondary schools champions Laiser Hill Academy of Rift Valley 57-50 to enter semi finals. Aquinas also beat St Charles Lwanga of Eastern Province 105-27.
Meanwhile, championship organisers have dismissed an appeal by Coast Secondary Schools Sports Association following the suspension of Shimba Hills forward Philip Amenyi.According to the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association secretary David Ngugi, the officials stood by the earlier decision to award Kisumu Day the match and suspend Amenyi who transferred from Maseno to Shimba Hills.
The Coast body, however, insisted that student had been a victim of circumstances, saying clearance from one school to another had never been an issue when deciding the eligibility of a player.
"If we were to start looking at the clearance of students, then most of the schools at the national championships would have to pack up and go because they have recruited players from other schools," a coast official said.
KENYA: 12 Teams Enter East Africa Tourney
The East and Central Africa basketball club championships will be held at Nyayo Stadium from April 24 to 30.
The East and Central Africa Basketball Confederation chairman, Morris Aluanga, said 12 teams from six countries had already confirmed participation.
They are Co-operative Bank, Ulinzi warriors and KCB Lions (men), Sprite Storms, KPA (women) from Kenya, JKT (men and women) of Tanzania, Nkumbe Marine (men) and A1 Challenge (women) from Uganda, Stone Town (men) of Zanzibar and APR (men and women) of Rwanda. Burundi will send both men and women's teams.
Kenyan teams are the defending champions. KCB Lions and Sprite Storms won the men and women's titles last year in Dar-es-Salaam.
Aluanga said FIBA Africa had recognised the East and Central Africa Basketball Confederation for the first time.
The Africa body will send a technical expert, who will hold a three-day coaching clinic from today.
Aluanga said this was a first step towards total integration of the East and Central Africa region into one zone.
"It has become very difficult for some countries in East and Central Africa to actively participate in basketball due to the different zones," said Aluanga.
"You find that countries like Uganda and Rwanda are not active simply because of the expenses involved in taking part in competitions within their zone," said Aluanga.For the first time, the winner of next week's club championships will gain direct entry to the Africa club championship finals.
Kenya is the only country to have taken part in the continental event.
Kenya Basketball Federation chairman, Wesonga Agina, said tickets for the club championship would be on sale at Nyayo for Sh50, with a discounted charge of Sh20 for students.
The East and Central Africa Basketball Confederation chairman, Morris Aluanga, said 12 teams from six countries had already confirmed participation.
They are Co-operative Bank, Ulinzi warriors and KCB Lions (men), Sprite Storms, KPA (women) from Kenya, JKT (men and women) of Tanzania, Nkumbe Marine (men) and A1 Challenge (women) from Uganda, Stone Town (men) of Zanzibar and APR (men and women) of Rwanda. Burundi will send both men and women's teams.
Kenyan teams are the defending champions. KCB Lions and Sprite Storms won the men and women's titles last year in Dar-es-Salaam.
Aluanga said FIBA Africa had recognised the East and Central Africa Basketball Confederation for the first time.
The Africa body will send a technical expert, who will hold a three-day coaching clinic from today.
Aluanga said this was a first step towards total integration of the East and Central Africa region into one zone.
"It has become very difficult for some countries in East and Central Africa to actively participate in basketball due to the different zones," said Aluanga.
"You find that countries like Uganda and Rwanda are not active simply because of the expenses involved in taking part in competitions within their zone," said Aluanga.For the first time, the winner of next week's club championships will gain direct entry to the Africa club championship finals.
Kenya is the only country to have taken part in the continental event.
Kenya Basketball Federation chairman, Wesonga Agina, said tickets for the club championship would be on sale at Nyayo for Sh50, with a discounted charge of Sh20 for students.
20 April 2006
RWANDA: APR wins build up match
APR basketball club renewed their confidence when they walloped Basketball United Generation 90-76 in their build up match for the East, Central and Southern African basketball club championships slated to kick off this Friday in Nairobi, Kenya.
Right before the game, the military side had a point to prove to the Rwandan crowd. Playing at Camp Kigali, APR played with superb rhythm and aggression.
“They (BUG) are a good side. They are young and focused and getting a victory over them is no minor achievement,” the Kenyan tactician Owour observed.
“The team (APR) is in good shape and I am glad that our new signings have coped up well with the rest of the squad,” he continued.
The army side and UNR leave tomorrow for Nairobi tournament in the men and ladies category respectively.
Right before the game, the military side had a point to prove to the Rwandan crowd. Playing at Camp Kigali, APR played with superb rhythm and aggression.
“They (BUG) are a good side. They are young and focused and getting a victory over them is no minor achievement,” the Kenyan tactician Owour observed.
“The team (APR) is in good shape and I am glad that our new signings have coped up well with the rest of the squad,” he continued.
The army side and UNR leave tomorrow for Nairobi tournament in the men and ladies category respectively.
KENYA: Kamusinga, Mang’u in basketball semis
By Phionah Mwadilo
Friends School Kamusinga of Western Province and Central’s Mang’u Boys on Wednesday booked their basketball semi-final slots in the ongoing Kenya Secondary Schools term one ball games in Mombasa.
Kamusinga ran over a disjointed Shimba Hills side 74 - 40 with Anthony Gitonga managing 27 points for the winners, while the coast side’s Mike Shigali scored14 points at Shimo-la-Tewa High School grounds.
Shimba Hills suffered a setback when one of their key players was disqualified over registration issues. Philip Ameny, one of the team’s best players, was barred from taking any further part in the games following a complaint lodged by Nyanza’s Kisumu Day regarding the player’s credentials.
Ameny had allegedly forged his registration card for the games. It was alleged that Ameny, a former Maseno School student, had not cleared with the Nyanza side before joining Shimba Hills.
Kenya Secondary School Sports Association Secretary General, David Ngugi, said Ameny had to be suspended because his registration card had been forged.
"Shimba Hills beat Kisumu Day 107-57 in their opening match, but they will now forfeit those points and Ameny remains suspended," he said.
Mang’u Boys on their side had a fun morning after they defeated KIsumu Day of Nyanza 68-51 in an entertaining encounter.
On Thursday, champions Maseno School play Aquinas High at the Shimo la Tewa grounds while Maseno, who are struggling to retain their position, will have to do more to contain Aquinas who have not lost a match.
In another pool A match, Laiser Hill will tackle St Charles Lwanga.
In the girls’ category, Nyanza’s Menengai Girls and Nyanza’s Raliew Girls are leading in Pool B, while national champions Mombasa High lead pool ‘A’.
Rift Valley’s Menengai Girls beat Nyanza’s Raliew Girls 52-39 in a tough and entertaining encounter played at Shimo La Tewa School grounds on Wednesday.
Menengai’s Sharon Opondo hit 22 points, while Raliew’s Damaris Katunge nailed 11 points to top the scores chart.
Peninah Wiri tried in vain to salvage Raliew and ended the game with 13 points.
In another girls’ encounter, Matuga Girls were stretched to the limits by Trikha Girls of Central Province in a low scoring tie that ended with the Coast team winning 28-23.
Saida Swaleh, who had a better game in the first half scored 11 points to emerge top scorer for her side. Trikha’s Annrose Atieno was the match top scorer with 13 points to her credit.
Friends School Kamusinga of Western Province and Central’s Mang’u Boys on Wednesday booked their basketball semi-final slots in the ongoing Kenya Secondary Schools term one ball games in Mombasa.
Kamusinga ran over a disjointed Shimba Hills side 74 - 40 with Anthony Gitonga managing 27 points for the winners, while the coast side’s Mike Shigali scored14 points at Shimo-la-Tewa High School grounds.
Shimba Hills suffered a setback when one of their key players was disqualified over registration issues. Philip Ameny, one of the team’s best players, was barred from taking any further part in the games following a complaint lodged by Nyanza’s Kisumu Day regarding the player’s credentials.
Ameny had allegedly forged his registration card for the games. It was alleged that Ameny, a former Maseno School student, had not cleared with the Nyanza side before joining Shimba Hills.
Kenya Secondary School Sports Association Secretary General, David Ngugi, said Ameny had to be suspended because his registration card had been forged.
"Shimba Hills beat Kisumu Day 107-57 in their opening match, but they will now forfeit those points and Ameny remains suspended," he said.
Mang’u Boys on their side had a fun morning after they defeated KIsumu Day of Nyanza 68-51 in an entertaining encounter.
On Thursday, champions Maseno School play Aquinas High at the Shimo la Tewa grounds while Maseno, who are struggling to retain their position, will have to do more to contain Aquinas who have not lost a match.
In another pool A match, Laiser Hill will tackle St Charles Lwanga.
In the girls’ category, Nyanza’s Menengai Girls and Nyanza’s Raliew Girls are leading in Pool B, while national champions Mombasa High lead pool ‘A’.
Rift Valley’s Menengai Girls beat Nyanza’s Raliew Girls 52-39 in a tough and entertaining encounter played at Shimo La Tewa School grounds on Wednesday.
Menengai’s Sharon Opondo hit 22 points, while Raliew’s Damaris Katunge nailed 11 points to top the scores chart.
Peninah Wiri tried in vain to salvage Raliew and ended the game with 13 points.
In another girls’ encounter, Matuga Girls were stretched to the limits by Trikha Girls of Central Province in a low scoring tie that ended with the Coast team winning 28-23.
Saida Swaleh, who had a better game in the first half scored 11 points to emerge top scorer for her side. Trikha’s Annrose Atieno was the match top scorer with 13 points to her credit.
BURUNDI: Burundi Out of Regional Hoops Event
BURUNDIAN basketball teams will not feature in this year's East and Central club Basketball and the Inter Cities championships following their indiscipline during last year's regional meet in Kampala.
The Burundian national men's team was last year at the showed unsportsman behavior during the East, Central and Southern Africa Senior basketball championships semi final game against Uganda.
The assistant Secretary General for East African Basketball Association Mr. Ronnie Owino told Daily Monitor that Burundi will not participate again in any regional organised events unless they pay a fine of US$1000.
" We still stand by that regulation by the regional federation and unless they pay the fine, they will never again take part in any tournament in the region organised by our federation," Owino said.
The Burundians interrupted their preliminary game against Rwanda before the poorly officiated semi final by Ugandan referee Sam Bahwayo and Burundi's Austine Ndayitwayeko which sparked off fights on court and the disqualification of Burundi." This was the highest degree of indiscipline, with a sorry refereeing standard. Burundi has been a problem in all the regional championships but this time our action is serious," regional federation president Mr. Moris Aluanga said.
The club championship tips off on April 25-30 at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi-Kenya while the Inter Cities Basketball tourney is salted for May 17-21 at Lugogo indoor Stadium-Kampala.
Uganda will be represented by A-1 Challenge in the women's event and Nkumba Marines for the men.
The Burundian national men's team was last year at the showed unsportsman behavior during the East, Central and Southern Africa Senior basketball championships semi final game against Uganda.
The assistant Secretary General for East African Basketball Association Mr. Ronnie Owino told Daily Monitor that Burundi will not participate again in any regional organised events unless they pay a fine of US$1000.
" We still stand by that regulation by the regional federation and unless they pay the fine, they will never again take part in any tournament in the region organised by our federation," Owino said.
The Burundians interrupted their preliminary game against Rwanda before the poorly officiated semi final by Ugandan referee Sam Bahwayo and Burundi's Austine Ndayitwayeko which sparked off fights on court and the disqualification of Burundi." This was the highest degree of indiscipline, with a sorry refereeing standard. Burundi has been a problem in all the regional championships but this time our action is serious," regional federation president Mr. Moris Aluanga said.
The club championship tips off on April 25-30 at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi-Kenya while the Inter Cities Basketball tourney is salted for May 17-21 at Lugogo indoor Stadium-Kampala.
Uganda will be represented by A-1 Challenge in the women's event and Nkumba Marines for the men.
19 April 2006
ZIMBABWE: Harare Men Standing Men A
Men A
Standing
G W L F
Cameo 26 24 2 0
Varsity Leop. 26 21 5 0
Jewels 24 19 5 0
Kingdom Caval. 27 19 7 1
Mufakose Hawks 27 18 9 0
Celtics 26 17 9 0
Highdon Raiderz 25 16 8 1
Maxifix Pross 24 15 9 0
UZ Stars 25 10 15 0
Jammers 23 10 13 0
South Central 25 9 15 1
Golden Spurs 26 7 19 0
Mbare Bulls 26 4 20 2
Gentlemen's A. 26 3 22 1
Kambuzuma 23 3 16 4
Black Rhinos 20 4 10 6
Standing
G W L F
Cameo 26 24 2 0
Varsity Leop. 26 21 5 0
Jewels 24 19 5 0
Kingdom Caval. 27 19 7 1
Mufakose Hawks 27 18 9 0
Celtics 26 17 9 0
Highdon Raiderz 25 16 8 1
Maxifix Pross 24 15 9 0
UZ Stars 25 10 15 0
Jammers 23 10 13 0
South Central 25 9 15 1
Golden Spurs 26 7 19 0
Mbare Bulls 26 4 20 2
Gentlemen's A. 26 3 22 1
Kambuzuma 23 3 16 4
Black Rhinos 20 4 10 6
ZIMBABWE: Harare Basketball - This week end results
Results from this week end in Harare basketball championship.
Men
Kambuzuma All Stars – 53 Golden Spurs – 42
Cameo – 58 Maxifix Pross – 33
Kingdom Cavaliers – 77 Highdon Raiderz - 64
Celtics – 55 Varsity Leopards – 60
Mufakose Hawks – 77 Gentlemen’s Association – 41
Kambuzuma All Stars – 44 Highdon Raiderz – 68
Golden Spurs – 53 Kingdom Cavaliers – 73
Faith Wear Jammers – 73 South Central - 62
Women
Cameo – 114 Stormers - 15
Mufakose Hawks- 58 Crocodiles - 39
Men
Kambuzuma All Stars – 53 Golden Spurs – 42
Cameo – 58 Maxifix Pross – 33
Kingdom Cavaliers – 77 Highdon Raiderz - 64
Celtics – 55 Varsity Leopards – 60
Mufakose Hawks – 77 Gentlemen’s Association – 41
Kambuzuma All Stars – 44 Highdon Raiderz – 68
Golden Spurs – 53 Kingdom Cavaliers – 73
Faith Wear Jammers – 73 South Central - 62
Women
Cameo – 114 Stormers - 15
Mufakose Hawks- 58 Crocodiles - 39
NIGERIA: Lagos Outshines Bayelsa
Lagos State male team won the gold medal to dash the hopes of hard-fighting Bayelsa warriors in the basketball event of the Gateway Games but the story was not the same in the female version.
Lagos had earlier defeated Bayelsa in the preliminary, but when the two teams took to the court for the final, the Bayelsans showed some flashes that put the Lagos Boys on their toes.
Bayelsa dominated the first quarter, which ended in their favour 17-11 but at the resumption of the second quarter, the Peter Ahmed-led team took over the initiative, which saw the Bayelsa team trailing to the end of the match.
Their Ogun State counterparts thrashed Lagos female team in the final 74-46. The match which many described as a one sided affair saw the Coach Mark Balogun-led Ogun team turn their Lagos opponent to practicing materials.
Babs Ogunade, chairman of Lagos State Basketball Association after the match said he would have loved to win the two gold medals but was happy that the state still won the male gold medal.
Lagos had earlier defeated Bayelsa in the preliminary, but when the two teams took to the court for the final, the Bayelsans showed some flashes that put the Lagos Boys on their toes.
Bayelsa dominated the first quarter, which ended in their favour 17-11 but at the resumption of the second quarter, the Peter Ahmed-led team took over the initiative, which saw the Bayelsa team trailing to the end of the match.
Their Ogun State counterparts thrashed Lagos female team in the final 74-46. The match which many described as a one sided affair saw the Coach Mark Balogun-led Ogun team turn their Lagos opponent to practicing materials.
Babs Ogunade, chairman of Lagos State Basketball Association after the match said he would have loved to win the two gold medals but was happy that the state still won the male gold medal.
UGANDA: Power sinks Rhinos
Results
Men
Power 70 Rhino 55
Falcons 66 Livingstone 43
Vegetarian 59 MBC Rocks 43
Women
KIU 57 Lady Bucks 36
Crane High 20 Ndejje 00 (w/o)
WILBROD Okecho maintained his quest to emerge top scorer in the MTN Basketball League with 20 points as Sadolin Power regained their winning ways on Monday in a 70-55 victory over Charging Rhinos.
Rhinos took a 14-12 slim first quarter lead but Power strongly came back with a 34-28 lead at half time.
Ken Balyejusa's (14 points) brilliant display in the third quarter gave the 2000 league champions a comfortable 16 points lead and a deserved win.
Falcons also found an easy job with a 66-43 beating of Livingstone while Vegetarians were 59-43 winners over MBC Rocks.
In the women's league, Kampala International University (KIU) registered their biggest win of the season with a 57-36 thumping of former champions Lady Bucks.
Barbara Namukaya and Hadija Kiiza got 18 and 17 points respectively for KIU.
Men
Power 70 Rhino 55
Falcons 66 Livingstone 43
Vegetarian 59 MBC Rocks 43
Women
KIU 57 Lady Bucks 36
Crane High 20 Ndejje 00 (w/o)
WILBROD Okecho maintained his quest to emerge top scorer in the MTN Basketball League with 20 points as Sadolin Power regained their winning ways on Monday in a 70-55 victory over Charging Rhinos.
Rhinos took a 14-12 slim first quarter lead but Power strongly came back with a 34-28 lead at half time.
Ken Balyejusa's (14 points) brilliant display in the third quarter gave the 2000 league champions a comfortable 16 points lead and a deserved win.
Falcons also found an easy job with a 66-43 beating of Livingstone while Vegetarians were 59-43 winners over MBC Rocks.
In the women's league, Kampala International University (KIU) registered their biggest win of the season with a 57-36 thumping of former champions Lady Bucks.
Barbara Namukaya and Hadija Kiiza got 18 and 17 points respectively for KIU.
KENYA: Aquinas Are Next for the Defending Champions
Defending girls and boys basketball champions return to court this afternoon at the Shimo La Tewa grounds.
After losing their opening match to Laser Hill Academy, Maseno hope to re-assert their supremacy against Nairobi's Aquinas in Pool "A."
In pool "B" Coast representatives Shimba Hills face Friends School of Kamusinga.
Other matches in pool "A" and "B" will feature Kisumu Day (Nyanza) vs Mangu (Central) and Maseno (Nyanza) vs St Charles Lwanga (Eastern).
In girls Basketball Menengai (Rift Valley) will play against Raliew (Nyanza) and Matuga (Coast) against Trikha (Central) in pool "B" matches.
Defending Champions Mombasa High (Coast) will battle it out with Kamukunji (Nairobi).
After losing their opening match to Laser Hill Academy, Maseno hope to re-assert their supremacy against Nairobi's Aquinas in Pool "A."
In pool "B" Coast representatives Shimba Hills face Friends School of Kamusinga.
Other matches in pool "A" and "B" will feature Kisumu Day (Nyanza) vs Mangu (Central) and Maseno (Nyanza) vs St Charles Lwanga (Eastern).
In girls Basketball Menengai (Rift Valley) will play against Raliew (Nyanza) and Matuga (Coast) against Trikha (Central) in pool "B" matches.
Defending Champions Mombasa High (Coast) will battle it out with Kamukunji (Nairobi).
KENYA: Other results from Kenya Secondary Schools Championship
However defending champion's Mombasa High whipped Moi Girls, Kibwezi 117-13 in a one sided opening match. In another preliminary match Kigoi of Western Province turned the tables on Kamukunji to win 68-64 in a tension charged pool "A" match. Beatrice Awino of Mombasa High scored 48 points, Brenda Wafula, 24, and Everlyne Adhiambo 16 respectively. Moi Girls Kibwezi's top scorer was Agnes Nazaro with six points.
In basketball, John Paul Nyandoro scored 17 points and Richard Ndongi 16 to respectively to lead the scorers from Laser Hill Academy.
In the boys' pool "A" Aquinas, Nairobi, beat St Charles Lwanga from Eastern 105 -27. Billy James had 25 points and Evans Omondi 10 points for Aquinas respectively while Peter Mathias replied with 12 points for St Charles.
In basketball, John Paul Nyandoro scored 17 points and Richard Ndongi 16 to respectively to lead the scorers from Laser Hill Academy.
In the boys' pool "A" Aquinas, Nairobi, beat St Charles Lwanga from Eastern 105 -27. Billy James had 25 points and Evans Omondi 10 points for Aquinas respectively while Peter Mathias replied with 12 points for St Charles.
KENYA: Laiser Hill Upset Maseno in Opener
National Secondary Schools basketball champions Maseno School yesterday begun the defence of their title badly when they stumbled to a 70-64 defeat by Laiser Hill High School at the Shimo-La-Tewa High grounds.
Laser Hill, who are the Nairobi champions, started the game on slowly, but their opponents stormed off the blocks with gusto, terrorising the city side with several three pointers in the first quarter.
And even within the spectators, the mood suggested that the defending champions would carry the day due to their opponents' unconvincing start. But that was not to be.
Laiser Hill, despite dragging their feet in the initial stages, were the first to open the scoring when Victor Zakaro scored a half a basket after he was fouled three minutes into the game.
But Maseno captain, Augustine Munica, inspired his charges who put up a spirited fight with a number of three pointers and by the end of the quarter, the defending champions were leading 19-17. In the second quarter, Laiser Hill resumed with vigour after sealing the loopholes that made them vulnerable to their opponents, making it a seasaw battle.
The quarter swung this way and that before Laiser Hill led 28-26 at the end. Richard Ndong inspired his city side when he made six easy points with two three pointers to keep Laiser Hill in front.
But with just four minutes to the end of the quarter, Maseno's Edwin Otula, who was his side's top scorer, fought gallantly to bring the game to a 31-31 tie. In the third quarter, the skills in the game moved a notch higher as both sides displayed great flair to get the edge.
The quarter was evenly contested, although Maseno had a few difficulties pushing the game to their opponents. But the champions, kept reclaiming the lead and at one time were 63-56 ahead.
But in the final quarter, Laiser Hill made quick baskets in succession and brought the match to a 63-63 tie. They then maintained the pressure on the champions from then on.
With three minutes to go, Laiser Hill had taken command of the match and by the last whistle, the score board was reading 70-64 in their favour.
Maseno coach, Paul Otula, was quite philosophical in defeat and said that his boys approached the match with great confidence, but that key players Tiberis Mwenye and Edwin Otulla sprained their ankles and this affected them.
"I'm confident we will win the rest of the remaining matches so we can get to the semi-finals and retain our title," he said.One of Laiser Hill's coaches, Antony Kirimi, said the boys realised Maseno's mistakes and capitalised on them.
"It was a tough match for the boys, but they handled it quite well. My boys were also partly affected by the weather," he said.
In another match, Aquinas High School thrashed St Charles Lwanga 105-27 at the same venue. By the end of the first break, Aquinas were already up 46-15.
Laser Hill, who are the Nairobi champions, started the game on slowly, but their opponents stormed off the blocks with gusto, terrorising the city side with several three pointers in the first quarter.
And even within the spectators, the mood suggested that the defending champions would carry the day due to their opponents' unconvincing start. But that was not to be.
Laiser Hill, despite dragging their feet in the initial stages, were the first to open the scoring when Victor Zakaro scored a half a basket after he was fouled three minutes into the game.
But Maseno captain, Augustine Munica, inspired his charges who put up a spirited fight with a number of three pointers and by the end of the quarter, the defending champions were leading 19-17. In the second quarter, Laiser Hill resumed with vigour after sealing the loopholes that made them vulnerable to their opponents, making it a seasaw battle.
The quarter swung this way and that before Laiser Hill led 28-26 at the end. Richard Ndong inspired his city side when he made six easy points with two three pointers to keep Laiser Hill in front.
But with just four minutes to the end of the quarter, Maseno's Edwin Otula, who was his side's top scorer, fought gallantly to bring the game to a 31-31 tie. In the third quarter, the skills in the game moved a notch higher as both sides displayed great flair to get the edge.
The quarter was evenly contested, although Maseno had a few difficulties pushing the game to their opponents. But the champions, kept reclaiming the lead and at one time were 63-56 ahead.
But in the final quarter, Laiser Hill made quick baskets in succession and brought the match to a 63-63 tie. They then maintained the pressure on the champions from then on.
With three minutes to go, Laiser Hill had taken command of the match and by the last whistle, the score board was reading 70-64 in their favour.
Maseno coach, Paul Otula, was quite philosophical in defeat and said that his boys approached the match with great confidence, but that key players Tiberis Mwenye and Edwin Otulla sprained their ankles and this affected them.
"I'm confident we will win the rest of the remaining matches so we can get to the semi-finals and retain our title," he said.One of Laiser Hill's coaches, Antony Kirimi, said the boys realised Maseno's mistakes and capitalised on them.
"It was a tough match for the boys, but they handled it quite well. My boys were also partly affected by the weather," he said.
In another match, Aquinas High School thrashed St Charles Lwanga 105-27 at the same venue. By the end of the first break, Aquinas were already up 46-15.
18 April 2006
KENYA: Maseno picked for Burundi affair
Reigning national schools basketball boys champions Maseno School have been nominated to represent the country in the East Africa junior championships in Burundi next month.
School principal Paul Otula said they had been nominated by KBF chairman Agina Wasonga and would be using the national championships as part of the teams preparations for the regional event which will be used to select the team for the Africa junior championships.
"We have received the invitation and we will be in Burundi. My boys are determined to win and qualify to defend the Africa championship which we won in Durban, South Africa, three year’s ago," Otula who doubles as the teams head coach said.
"Yes we are here to retain the national championships but have a double duty to ensure that players are not injured or exhausted ahead of the East Africa junior championships which is a bigger event," he said.
Otula said his players would report straight to camp after the national championships to fine tune for the regional event.
Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and hosts Coast reported to camp on Sunday a day before the official reporting date yesterday signaling the seriousness the teams have attached to this years championships.
Coast teams have been in camp for a week at different camping sites and only arrived at the venues On Sunday to have a feel of the grounds.
Immediately the teams arrived in camp, they preferred to train in isolation with each coach avoiding being scouted by his opponents.
Tigoi girls, Raliew Secondary from Nyanza and Laiser Hill basketball teams went through morning training session with stoppages whenever they spotted un unfamiliar face around the court while Maseno, Kisumu Day, Mombasa High and Matuga Girls preferred to train in the afternoon.
School principal Paul Otula said they had been nominated by KBF chairman Agina Wasonga and would be using the national championships as part of the teams preparations for the regional event which will be used to select the team for the Africa junior championships.
"We have received the invitation and we will be in Burundi. My boys are determined to win and qualify to defend the Africa championship which we won in Durban, South Africa, three year’s ago," Otula who doubles as the teams head coach said.
"Yes we are here to retain the national championships but have a double duty to ensure that players are not injured or exhausted ahead of the East Africa junior championships which is a bigger event," he said.
Otula said his players would report straight to camp after the national championships to fine tune for the regional event.
Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and hosts Coast reported to camp on Sunday a day before the official reporting date yesterday signaling the seriousness the teams have attached to this years championships.
Coast teams have been in camp for a week at different camping sites and only arrived at the venues On Sunday to have a feel of the grounds.
Immediately the teams arrived in camp, they preferred to train in isolation with each coach avoiding being scouted by his opponents.
Tigoi girls, Raliew Secondary from Nyanza and Laiser Hill basketball teams went through morning training session with stoppages whenever they spotted un unfamiliar face around the court while Maseno, Kisumu Day, Mombasa High and Matuga Girls preferred to train in the afternoon.
UGANDA: A-1 keep winning
GULU based Hawks lost to defending champions Nkumba Marines 69-48 last weekend in the Yello-Max conference basketball league encounter.
The women’s champions A-1 Challenge also picked a 48-29 win over Crane High to keep a 100% record.
Bush Courts and Blue Jackets walked over Sky Jammers and No-Nem respectively who failed to show-up on Sunday.
In the Yello-Go Conference Knight riders did not spare Makerere Youth Heaters in a heated game that ended 60-57 with Riders winning. UCU and Flammers also won their games against Spena and FPAU. UCU bagged a 111-46 win, while Flammers picked a 48-42 win.
The Makerere Sparks beat Kyambogo Comets 59-24. Before we went to press, Sadolin Power was taking on Charging Rhino yesterday at the YMCA courts, together with KIU rangers and Lady Bucks.
The women’s champions A-1 Challenge also picked a 48-29 win over Crane High to keep a 100% record.
Bush Courts and Blue Jackets walked over Sky Jammers and No-Nem respectively who failed to show-up on Sunday.
In the Yello-Go Conference Knight riders did not spare Makerere Youth Heaters in a heated game that ended 60-57 with Riders winning. UCU and Flammers also won their games against Spena and FPAU. UCU bagged a 111-46 win, while Flammers picked a 48-42 win.
The Makerere Sparks beat Kyambogo Comets 59-24. Before we went to press, Sadolin Power was taking on Charging Rhino yesterday at the YMCA courts, together with KIU rangers and Lady Bucks.
17 April 2006
UGANDA: Marines get support for Kenya event
MTN Basketball champions Nkumba Marines have received a sponsorship boost ahead of the regional East, Central and Southern Africa Basketball Club Championship scheduled
to take place on April 25-30 at in Nairobi Kenya.
The team manager of Marines who is also the sports Tutor Mr. Patrick Ssebuliba told Daily Monitor that they have received two sets of jerseys from Peacock paints and Shs0.5m from Palle Moeller. He said Nkumba University Board of Trustees have also raised Shs2m for the team that will travel to Nairobi after the Easter season.
" We still need more help to be able to make a successful trip,” said Ssebuliba.The Marines have been boosted by the return of Donald Blick, while Norman Blick will join the team in Nairobi. Norman Blick has been having trials in Qatar .
Ugandan champions Nkumba Marines and women champions A-I Challenge have already confirmed their participation in the big regional championship.
to take place on April 25-30 at in Nairobi Kenya.
The team manager of Marines who is also the sports Tutor Mr. Patrick Ssebuliba told Daily Monitor that they have received two sets of jerseys from Peacock paints and Shs0.5m from Palle Moeller. He said Nkumba University Board of Trustees have also raised Shs2m for the team that will travel to Nairobi after the Easter season.
" We still need more help to be able to make a successful trip,” said Ssebuliba.The Marines have been boosted by the return of Donald Blick, while Norman Blick will join the team in Nairobi. Norman Blick has been having trials in Qatar .
Ugandan champions Nkumba Marines and women champions A-I Challenge have already confirmed their participation in the big regional championship.
ZAMBIA: NDH take on NAPSA Hurricanes
THE Zambia Basketball Association (ZBA) league enters week four with renamed Newspaper Direct Heroes taking on NAPSA Hurricanes in the match of the day.
Newspaper Direct, previously known as Heroes Play United, is a team well motivated by its new sponsorship from Newspapers Direct Limited.
Junior Hurricanes, a reserve team for NAPSA will play league debutants Lusaka Kings at the NASDEC in another league match.
Kings, comprising mostly players from the now defunct Hawks, already dropped vital points in their match against Barclays’ Magic on Saturday.
In the women’s league, UNZA Honeys take on double champions Nets in what could be a one-sided match.
Honeys struggled all the way through the season last year and could do the same this term if major changes are not made to the team.
Perennial rivals Green Buffaloes and Looteresses clash in another women’s match; a fixture whose result could determine who wins the league this season.
Buffaloes and Looteresses have been fighting neck to neck for the past few seasons with the occasional interference by Nets.
WEEK 04: Monday 17 April 2006 - NASDEC
11:00 UNZA Honeys Vs Nets (Feminine)
13:30 Junior Hurricanes Vs Lusaka Kings
15:00 G/ Buffaloes Vs Lootresses (Feminine)
17:00 N.D Heroes Vs NAPSA Hurricanes
Newspaper Direct, previously known as Heroes Play United, is a team well motivated by its new sponsorship from Newspapers Direct Limited.
Junior Hurricanes, a reserve team for NAPSA will play league debutants Lusaka Kings at the NASDEC in another league match.
Kings, comprising mostly players from the now defunct Hawks, already dropped vital points in their match against Barclays’ Magic on Saturday.
In the women’s league, UNZA Honeys take on double champions Nets in what could be a one-sided match.
Honeys struggled all the way through the season last year and could do the same this term if major changes are not made to the team.
Perennial rivals Green Buffaloes and Looteresses clash in another women’s match; a fixture whose result could determine who wins the league this season.
Buffaloes and Looteresses have been fighting neck to neck for the past few seasons with the occasional interference by Nets.
WEEK 04: Monday 17 April 2006 - NASDEC
11:00 UNZA Honeys Vs Nets (Feminine)
13:30 Junior Hurricanes Vs Lusaka Kings
15:00 G/ Buffaloes Vs Lootresses (Feminine)
17:00 N.D Heroes Vs NAPSA Hurricanes
KENYA: Ulinzi floor Coast Youth Centre
National premier league basketball champions, Ulinzi, defeated Coast Youth Centre 70-46 in a tough match at the Mombasa Baptist High School grounds at the weekend.
The home side displayed some flashes of brilliance in the first few minutes, although the soldiers outclassed them in all the departments.
Coast Youth’s Michael Shikuku and Ulinzi’s Ancent Wafula had quite a good start, scoring three pointers within the first few minutes. By the end of the first quarter, the soldiers had already established a 17-14 lead. At the break, they were leading 25-22.
Wafula was the top scorer of the game with 22 points, while Richard Osano and Victor Odende scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Philip Amenyi scored 14 points for Coast Youth Centre, while Sammy Chone had 11 points.
The home side displayed some flashes of brilliance in the first few minutes, although the soldiers outclassed them in all the departments.
Coast Youth’s Michael Shikuku and Ulinzi’s Ancent Wafula had quite a good start, scoring three pointers within the first few minutes. By the end of the first quarter, the soldiers had already established a 17-14 lead. At the break, they were leading 25-22.
Wafula was the top scorer of the game with 22 points, while Richard Osano and Victor Odende scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Philip Amenyi scored 14 points for Coast Youth Centre, while Sammy Chone had 11 points.
15 April 2006
RWANDA: MVK abandons KCBC
Basketball United Generation formerly Kigali City Basketball Club has once again called out onto potential sponsors in and around Kigali to take over the club. BUG who shifted from the initial club name KCBC solely because they received no support whatsoever from the city council have expressed confidence saying that it’s just a matter of time before the club lands the rightful sponsors.
“It’s never easy for a club to take part in a huge event like the National basketball league without potential bank-rollers but I’m happy that BUG has so far endured the grave task,” said Jean de Dieu Nizeyimana, the Club Coac
“It’s never easy for a club to take part in a huge event like the National basketball league without potential bank-rollers but I’m happy that BUG has so far endured the grave task,” said Jean de Dieu Nizeyimana, the Club Coac
UGANDA: Marines down Sadolin Power
Results
Marines 71 Power 68
Miracle 78 Najja High 26
Lubiri 60 Crane High 51
MAK Youth 72 Jackets 38
Women
A-1 (w/o) Ndejje University
Lady Bucks 82 Amazon 26
Today
No-Nem v Jackets
Warriors v KIU
Crane High v A-1
KCC v MAK Cubs
IT was a 'bad' Friday for the big Yello-Max Sadolin Power who fought against defending Champions Nkumba Marines but eventually lost in a league game played on Friday at the YMCA courts.
Power's hopes to crush Marines were shuttered by he second quarter of the game after they took the first quarter by a one-point margin (20-19). Marines won the game 71-68.
In the other games played, Miracle beat Najja High 78-26, Lubiri High stopped Crane High 60-51, while Makerere Youth Heaters also picked a 72-38 victory over Blue Jackets.
In the women’s category, Lady Bucks charged over Amazon with an 82-26 victory before Crane High survived Nabisunsa at a narrow 49-40 win. A-1 Challenge bagged sweat free points after Ndejje University failed to show-up.
Action resumes today with players having to celebrate their Easter on the Courts with several matches on card.
Marines 71 Power 68
Miracle 78 Najja High 26
Lubiri 60 Crane High 51
MAK Youth 72 Jackets 38
Women
A-1 (w/o) Ndejje University
Lady Bucks 82 Amazon 26
Today
No-Nem v Jackets
Warriors v KIU
Crane High v A-1
KCC v MAK Cubs
IT was a 'bad' Friday for the big Yello-Max Sadolin Power who fought against defending Champions Nkumba Marines but eventually lost in a league game played on Friday at the YMCA courts.
Power's hopes to crush Marines were shuttered by he second quarter of the game after they took the first quarter by a one-point margin (20-19). Marines won the game 71-68.
In the other games played, Miracle beat Najja High 78-26, Lubiri High stopped Crane High 60-51, while Makerere Youth Heaters also picked a 72-38 victory over Blue Jackets.
In the women’s category, Lady Bucks charged over Amazon with an 82-26 victory before Crane High survived Nabisunsa at a narrow 49-40 win. A-1 Challenge bagged sweat free points after Ndejje University failed to show-up.
Action resumes today with players having to celebrate their Easter on the Courts with several matches on card.
14 April 2006
EGYPT: Al Gezira go to ACC?
Al Gezira basketball team the champions of the egyption league 2006 may not participate in Arab Clubs Championship (ACC) which will begin in 27th of April in Morrocco due to finanicial problems.
The basketball team needs more than 17 thousand $ for flight tickets and the hotel costs and other stuffs and the club cannot afford that in these days,The club asked for the federation to help them to collect the money to let them represent egypt in ACC 2006.
The team which have many stars plus the itlaian veteran coach Mario Blazzoni are prepared technically for the tournament but they are waiting to solve the money problems so that they can participate.
The basketball team needs more than 17 thousand $ for flight tickets and the hotel costs and other stuffs and the club cannot afford that in these days,The club asked for the federation to help them to collect the money to let them represent egypt in ACC 2006.
The team which have many stars plus the itlaian veteran coach Mario Blazzoni are prepared technically for the tournament but they are waiting to solve the money problems so that they can participate.
ZAMBIA: ZDPA Withdraws Sponsorship From Basketball League
TWO teams in the Zambia Dairy Processors Association (ZDPA)-sponsored Basketball Association of Zambia (BAZ) league have withdrawn from the league.
BAZ general secretary Major Richard Kachingwe yesterday said Hawks and Kafue Natives had not confirmed their participation in the 2006 season and had so far missed out on the opening two league matches.
Hawks, previously known as Premium Hawks with sponsorship from the Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZISC), have failed to come up with a full team for the season while Natives have just been quiet.
Maj Kachingwe said the Hawks, one of the longest running teams in the league, had lost players to Lusaka Kings resulting in their failure to put together a strong team to challenge for honours.
Natives on the other hand have only been in the league for the past two seasons and for the good part of the season played with just enough players to form a starting team but without substitutes.
Maj Kachingwe said former national champions Heroes Play United have changed their name to News Perfect Direct Heroes, indicating the name of the team's new sponsors.
He said a new team, Maamba Coal Stars from Maamba was trying to join the league and that final paper work was being done. Meanwhile, the BAZ league teams will play their week three and four league matches this Friday and Sunday in Lusaka at the National Sports Development Centre.
BAZ general secretary Major Richard Kachingwe yesterday said Hawks and Kafue Natives had not confirmed their participation in the 2006 season and had so far missed out on the opening two league matches.
Hawks, previously known as Premium Hawks with sponsorship from the Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZISC), have failed to come up with a full team for the season while Natives have just been quiet.
Maj Kachingwe said the Hawks, one of the longest running teams in the league, had lost players to Lusaka Kings resulting in their failure to put together a strong team to challenge for honours.
Natives on the other hand have only been in the league for the past two seasons and for the good part of the season played with just enough players to form a starting team but without substitutes.
Maj Kachingwe said former national champions Heroes Play United have changed their name to News Perfect Direct Heroes, indicating the name of the team's new sponsors.
He said a new team, Maamba Coal Stars from Maamba was trying to join the league and that final paper work was being done. Meanwhile, the BAZ league teams will play their week three and four league matches this Friday and Sunday in Lusaka at the National Sports Development Centre.
13 April 2006
UGANDA: Marines, A-1 back in action
Men
MAK Youth v Blue Jackets
Najja v Miracle
Marines v Power
Women
Crane High v Nabisunsa
A-1 v Ndejje University
Lady Bucks v Amazon
MTN league defending champs Nkumba Marines and women champions A-1 Challenge all return to action today after making winning starts last week.
Marines will be back in a tricky tie against arch rivals Sadolin Power.
Even minus the dependable Blick brothers Norman and Donald Marines had a convincing 95-86 win over Falcons when the league tipped off at Lugogo last Thursday.
Sadolin Power on the other hand will be aiming at squeezing for the two points that will see them go top of the Yello Max conference with 4 points after last weekend's win over Najja. MAK Youth will also face Blue Jackets today, while Najja battle Miracle.
In the women's league, Crane High takes on Nabisunsa in one the most entertaining games of the afternoon, while A-I Challenge also return against new comers Ndejje University and Lady Bucks entertain Amazon Rhino.
MAK Youth v Blue Jackets
Najja v Miracle
Marines v Power
Women
Crane High v Nabisunsa
A-1 v Ndejje University
Lady Bucks v Amazon
MTN league defending champs Nkumba Marines and women champions A-1 Challenge all return to action today after making winning starts last week.
Marines will be back in a tricky tie against arch rivals Sadolin Power.
Even minus the dependable Blick brothers Norman and Donald Marines had a convincing 95-86 win over Falcons when the league tipped off at Lugogo last Thursday.
Sadolin Power on the other hand will be aiming at squeezing for the two points that will see them go top of the Yello Max conference with 4 points after last weekend's win over Najja. MAK Youth will also face Blue Jackets today, while Najja battle Miracle.
In the women's league, Crane High takes on Nabisunsa in one the most entertaining games of the afternoon, while A-I Challenge also return against new comers Ndejje University and Lady Bucks entertain Amazon Rhino.
ZIMBABWE: 2 Harare teams set to take part in Bulawayo basketball tourney
By Paul Munyuki
ONLY two Harare teams are set to take part in the Bulawayo Basketball Association Easter tournament that is scheduled to start tomorrow in the City of Kings.
The three-day tournament will have Jewels and Kingdom Cavalliers from the Harare Basketball Association while seven teams from Bulawayo will take part. Unlike in the past years, most of the teams from Harare have failed to make it for the annual tournament after failing to raise enough funds for accommodation and travelling expenses. Highlanders, Giants, Kings, Lords, Classics, Academy, and Stars are the Bulawayo teams that have confirmed participation while college side Nust University have excused themselves from the tournament as students will be on holiday. BBA chairman Winston Mutasa said that the tournament was largely aimed at giving Bulawayo teams a taste of how Harare teams are playing as the date for the national championship tournament draws closer. "We were looking at making the tournament a warm-up event for the national tournament because most of the teams this side (Bulawayo) would like to see how the teams from Harare are playing. "Nine teams have confirmed participation with two of them being from Harare "Traditionally the tournament had been hosted by Highlanders but we felt that as an association we had to chip in and do something and we have since taken over," said Mutasa. But the tournament will not have any women’s sides taking part as they were not enough teams that expressed willingness in the event. "We are having problems in getting enough teams for the women’s tournament and we have since scrapped their tournament. "I also believe that that is the reason why the standard of women’s basketball is going down because they do not expose themselves to a lot of competition," he said. However, BBA are yet to work out the prizes for the winning and other teams that would have taken part in the event. "We are yet to work out on how much the winners and the runners-up would get because we are going to hold a meeting with the sponsors and see how much would be at stake," said Mutasa.
ONLY two Harare teams are set to take part in the Bulawayo Basketball Association Easter tournament that is scheduled to start tomorrow in the City of Kings.
The three-day tournament will have Jewels and Kingdom Cavalliers from the Harare Basketball Association while seven teams from Bulawayo will take part. Unlike in the past years, most of the teams from Harare have failed to make it for the annual tournament after failing to raise enough funds for accommodation and travelling expenses. Highlanders, Giants, Kings, Lords, Classics, Academy, and Stars are the Bulawayo teams that have confirmed participation while college side Nust University have excused themselves from the tournament as students will be on holiday. BBA chairman Winston Mutasa said that the tournament was largely aimed at giving Bulawayo teams a taste of how Harare teams are playing as the date for the national championship tournament draws closer. "We were looking at making the tournament a warm-up event for the national tournament because most of the teams this side (Bulawayo) would like to see how the teams from Harare are playing. "Nine teams have confirmed participation with two of them being from Harare "Traditionally the tournament had been hosted by Highlanders but we felt that as an association we had to chip in and do something and we have since taken over," said Mutasa. But the tournament will not have any women’s sides taking part as they were not enough teams that expressed willingness in the event. "We are having problems in getting enough teams for the women’s tournament and we have since scrapped their tournament. "I also believe that that is the reason why the standard of women’s basketball is going down because they do not expose themselves to a lot of competition," he said. However, BBA are yet to work out the prizes for the winning and other teams that would have taken part in the event. "We are yet to work out on how much the winners and the runners-up would get because we are going to hold a meeting with the sponsors and see how much would be at stake," said Mutasa.
UGANDA: Scandinavian, Busscar Support A-1 Challenge
TRANSPORT companies Busscar Uganda Limited and Scandinavian Express have boosted the MTN women Basketball league champions A-1 Challenge ahead of the East Central and Southern Africa Basketball Club Championship scheduled for April 25-30 in Nairobi, Kenya.
The General Manager Busscar Mr. Salim Omar Bongo handed seven return tickets to the skipper of A-1 Challenge Jennifer Mwenyango yesterday at the company's head offices. Bongo also offered a subsidsed fee to the rest of the eight players who will be travelling to Nairobi for the regional event.
Scandinavian Express country Manager Mr Faisal Mohammed also boosted the team with five more return tickets that he handed over to three team members. " We are giving the regional tournament our first try and hope to return with the trophy," said senior player Mavita Ali.
The men's Nkumba Marines will also represent Uganda.
The General Manager Busscar Mr. Salim Omar Bongo handed seven return tickets to the skipper of A-1 Challenge Jennifer Mwenyango yesterday at the company's head offices. Bongo also offered a subsidsed fee to the rest of the eight players who will be travelling to Nairobi for the regional event.
Scandinavian Express country Manager Mr Faisal Mohammed also boosted the team with five more return tickets that he handed over to three team members. " We are giving the regional tournament our first try and hope to return with the trophy," said senior player Mavita Ali.
The men's Nkumba Marines will also represent Uganda.
12 April 2006
KENYA: New team, Yana, joins national women's league
A new team, Yana, has joined the Kenya women's Premier League and has promised to give their best in only their first year of formation.
Team head coach John Chasimba who talked to us over the weekend promised that his side will give it their all and if possible make it to the play offs latter in
the year.
He said that the players that have joined the team have experience and are more than capable of lifting the club to greater heights in future.
Chasimba said that he has not closed the door was was still looking for good players to boost the team's playing personel and enhance their performance.
"I am still looking for few quality players expecially at the point guard and the back court.Once I achieve this, then my work will be alright" said Chasimba.
He said that he was ready for the challenge ahead and tha it the prospects were good.He will bank on maximum 18 players for "healthy competition".
The tactcian, who has guided both Kenya Railways and NSSF men to the national titles also unveiled his players.They already have bagged maximu points in their opening two matches.
Yana were awarded a walkover against KCB Lioness and followed that with a 53-28 win over University of Nairobi "Dynamites" in their second tie.
Janet Sichisi was the new sides main player scoring 14 points in that win. Yana were ahead 32-7 at half time and went on to record a convincing victory.
The players are led by former Sprite Storms forward Stella Opondo who is instrumental in the teams formation. The team has fully sponsored by Sameer Africa.
The others are Pamella Siunda who played for (KU), Millicent Maluti (KCB), Cynthia Mumbo (Storms) Janet Sichiri (Storms), Anne Lyambila and Pamella Liko
(USIU), Caroline Achieng (Kenya Railways) and Lina Olweny (Storms).
Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) chairman Agina Wesonga lauded the move by Yana saying they will fill the void left by Lioness who have since folded.
Dann O'Were
Team head coach John Chasimba who talked to us over the weekend promised that his side will give it their all and if possible make it to the play offs latter in
the year.
He said that the players that have joined the team have experience and are more than capable of lifting the club to greater heights in future.
Chasimba said that he has not closed the door was was still looking for good players to boost the team's playing personel and enhance their performance.
"I am still looking for few quality players expecially at the point guard and the back court.Once I achieve this, then my work will be alright" said Chasimba.
He said that he was ready for the challenge ahead and tha it the prospects were good.He will bank on maximum 18 players for "healthy competition".
The tactcian, who has guided both Kenya Railways and NSSF men to the national titles also unveiled his players.They already have bagged maximu points in their opening two matches.
Yana were awarded a walkover against KCB Lioness and followed that with a 53-28 win over University of Nairobi "Dynamites" in their second tie.
Janet Sichisi was the new sides main player scoring 14 points in that win. Yana were ahead 32-7 at half time and went on to record a convincing victory.
The players are led by former Sprite Storms forward Stella Opondo who is instrumental in the teams formation. The team has fully sponsored by Sameer Africa.
The others are Pamella Siunda who played for (KU), Millicent Maluti (KCB), Cynthia Mumbo (Storms) Janet Sichiri (Storms), Anne Lyambila and Pamella Liko
(USIU), Caroline Achieng (Kenya Railways) and Lina Olweny (Storms).
Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) chairman Agina Wesonga lauded the move by Yana saying they will fill the void left by Lioness who have since folded.
Dann O'Were
KENYA: USIU produce superb show to stun Co-op in league
Last year's strugglers United States International University (USIU) produced a superb display to stun play off finalists Co-perative Bank of Kenya 78-73 in an exiting Premier League tie at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.
This evenly contested and entertaining duel saw both teams tie 23-23 in the opening quarter. USIU though were in command taking a 38-37 cushion at the
breather.
The third quarter was fiery and again deadlocked 16-16 before the students, who were led superly by an on fire Abel Nson, went up 24-20 in the last quarter.
Nson, undoubtedly the star of this cracker, shot season high 37 points, 27 of those coming in the first half. George Baguma added 16 for USIU, a dissapointment last year.
Co-op was not helped by the inability to field key player John Waruru, frustrated on the bench for long spells as officials sorted out his playing card. Only Cliff Ochieng hit double figures as he had 16 points.
National champions Ulinzi Warriors led 42-20 at half time and punished University of Nairobi "Terrorists" 77-61.In the last quarter the soldiers were up 54-44 before firing away to a 72-52 margin on a Richard Osano basket.
Osano hit 13 points and Ancette Wafula contributed 15. Fred Magana made 15 and Moses Kamau 13 for UoN who have always beaten Ulinzi in their opneing fixtures
for two years.
In Mombasa, East and Central Africa club champions KCB Lions were in a class of their won hitting home side Coast Youth Club (CYC) 74-51 in a match played at makande Welfare gymnasium.
Sprite Storms had 27 points from Linda Alando and 10 from Angela Luchivya as they posted a 77-58 win over USIU "Flames". Angela Okoth managed 31 and Sally Bosire 15 for the campus girls, down 39-29 at the break.
Newly formed Yana team that has promised to cause a stir in the women's league hit University of Nairobi "Dynamites" 53-28 behind 14 points from Janet Sichiri. UoN had no scorer in double figures.
By Dann O'WERE
This evenly contested and entertaining duel saw both teams tie 23-23 in the opening quarter. USIU though were in command taking a 38-37 cushion at the
breather.
The third quarter was fiery and again deadlocked 16-16 before the students, who were led superly by an on fire Abel Nson, went up 24-20 in the last quarter.
Nson, undoubtedly the star of this cracker, shot season high 37 points, 27 of those coming in the first half. George Baguma added 16 for USIU, a dissapointment last year.
Co-op was not helped by the inability to field key player John Waruru, frustrated on the bench for long spells as officials sorted out his playing card. Only Cliff Ochieng hit double figures as he had 16 points.
National champions Ulinzi Warriors led 42-20 at half time and punished University of Nairobi "Terrorists" 77-61.In the last quarter the soldiers were up 54-44 before firing away to a 72-52 margin on a Richard Osano basket.
Osano hit 13 points and Ancette Wafula contributed 15. Fred Magana made 15 and Moses Kamau 13 for UoN who have always beaten Ulinzi in their opneing fixtures
for two years.
In Mombasa, East and Central Africa club champions KCB Lions were in a class of their won hitting home side Coast Youth Club (CYC) 74-51 in a match played at makande Welfare gymnasium.
Sprite Storms had 27 points from Linda Alando and 10 from Angela Luchivya as they posted a 77-58 win over USIU "Flames". Angela Okoth managed 31 and Sally Bosire 15 for the campus girls, down 39-29 at the break.
Newly formed Yana team that has promised to cause a stir in the women's league hit University of Nairobi "Dynamites" 53-28 behind 14 points from Janet Sichiri. UoN had no scorer in double figures.
By Dann O'WERE
TANZANIA: Training for the good life
By Burton Brown
More than 20 basketball teams have confirmed participation in the Emima Youth Basketball League scheduled for April 15th to 30th in Dar es Salaam.
The tournament will solely feature young players, most of them schoolboys and girls from Dar es Salaam.
The President of Dar es Salaam Basketball body, Simon Msofe said two venues have been picked to host the tournaments. The venues are Don Bosco Youth Centre court and the International School of Tanganyika.
Msofe said the non-governmental organization dealing with education for youth, sport and guidance (EMIMA) has organized the tournament in collaboration with BD.
The aim of the tournament is to hunt for new talents and develop them, as well as giving youth guidance about the good life free from drugs and alcohol.
The coordinator of the tournament from EMIMA, Oliver Katandalila said previously EMIMA centred on soccer, which is the most popular sport in the country. But good cooperation and the commitment of BD in developing basketball in Dar es Salaam lured them to switch to basketball.
“The fast growing popularity of basketball in Dar es Salaam under the guidance of BD made us join them. Like what we have been doing for the youth who participated in the soccer tournament, this year we will give counselling on AIDS awareness, so that the players benefit from both sports and education,” he said.
EMIMA will also participate by fielding two teams. Various entertainment groups will thrill players and others expected to turn up to watch the games.
More than 20 basketball teams have confirmed participation in the Emima Youth Basketball League scheduled for April 15th to 30th in Dar es Salaam.
The tournament will solely feature young players, most of them schoolboys and girls from Dar es Salaam.
The President of Dar es Salaam Basketball body, Simon Msofe said two venues have been picked to host the tournaments. The venues are Don Bosco Youth Centre court and the International School of Tanganyika.
Msofe said the non-governmental organization dealing with education for youth, sport and guidance (EMIMA) has organized the tournament in collaboration with BD.
The aim of the tournament is to hunt for new talents and develop them, as well as giving youth guidance about the good life free from drugs and alcohol.
The coordinator of the tournament from EMIMA, Oliver Katandalila said previously EMIMA centred on soccer, which is the most popular sport in the country. But good cooperation and the commitment of BD in developing basketball in Dar es Salaam lured them to switch to basketball.
“The fast growing popularity of basketball in Dar es Salaam under the guidance of BD made us join them. Like what we have been doing for the youth who participated in the soccer tournament, this year we will give counselling on AIDS awareness, so that the players benefit from both sports and education,” he said.
EMIMA will also participate by fielding two teams. Various entertainment groups will thrill players and others expected to turn up to watch the games.
TANZANIA: Basketball League in earnest
By Burton Brown
Dar es Salaam Basketball body has warned the top clubs participating in the region’s premier league (Kili RBA) and the Dream Cup to form under-14 junior teams or else they will be barred from taking part in next season’s league.
Talking to The Express this week, the President of the Basketball Association of Dar es Salaam, Simon Msofe said the decision came as part of the BD’s strategies to develop basketball talents.
“We have already sent official letters to all responsible clubs notifying them about the changes,” he explained.
Both the Kili RBA League and Dream Cup have played a big role in producing many top players.
“This time we are very serious about the junior sides and will take strong measures against the teams that fail to comply with this new directive, they will be strictly barred from taking part in the leagues,” he insisted.
Apart from this, Msofe, also the President of the East African Intercity Basketball Federation, said that nine cities already had confirmed their participation in this year’s tournament to be held in Kampala, Uganda from May 7th.
Dar es Salaam Basketball body has warned the top clubs participating in the region’s premier league (Kili RBA) and the Dream Cup to form under-14 junior teams or else they will be barred from taking part in next season’s league.
Talking to The Express this week, the President of the Basketball Association of Dar es Salaam, Simon Msofe said the decision came as part of the BD’s strategies to develop basketball talents.
“We have already sent official letters to all responsible clubs notifying them about the changes,” he explained.
Both the Kili RBA League and Dream Cup have played a big role in producing many top players.
“This time we are very serious about the junior sides and will take strong measures against the teams that fail to comply with this new directive, they will be strictly barred from taking part in the leagues,” he insisted.
Apart from this, Msofe, also the President of the East African Intercity Basketball Federation, said that nine cities already had confirmed their participation in this year’s tournament to be held in Kampala, Uganda from May 7th.
11 April 2006
UGANDA: Rhinos BC topple KIU
By Gloria Kyomugisha and Chris Ocowun
Rhinos 48 KIU 43
Power 61 Najja 51
UCU 79 MBC Rocks 53
Vegetarians 59 SPENA 39
KCC Leopards 67 Amazon 13
CHARGING Rhinos came up strong in the fourth quarter, handing Kampala International University (KIU) an opening 48-43 defeat in one of the MTN basketball league matches played Sunday at the YMCA.
Richard Okila scored 16 points and Mande Juruni added 15 as Rhinos started their 2006 league title campaign with a victory.
The game was tied 43-43, before Juruni scored on a driving lay-up with 42 seconds left. Roger Serunyigo then stole a pass from KIU’s Collins Omondi and was fouled on a lay-up attempt.
Serunyigo then converted 1-of-2 shots from the charity line and David Kiberu scored on a follow shot to open a five-point cushion for Rhinos with 32 seconds left.
Rhinos finished the game on a 12-5 run to post their first league victory.
In other games, Sadolin Power were able to rebuild their advantage to 10 points when Michael Kariuki (19 points) found a slicing Wilbrod Oketcho (24 points) for an easy lay-up as the team coasted to a 61-51 victory over Najja High.
In the women’s encounter, KCC Leopards rallying behind Agatha Baliddawa and Annet Nakiwu, destroyed Amazon Rhinos’ defense for a 67-13 triumph.
In the schools championship, Layibi College, Lango College, Gulu Central and Kitgum High have qualified to represent northern region at the national schools basketball championships set for Ndejje SS May 8-16.
The Northern regional qualifiers were played at Kaunda ground.
Layibi College emerged top in the region with six points after winning all the three games that they played.
Lango College came second with five points after losing one game to Layibi College. Gulu Central were third.
Regional schools basketball coordinator for the north, Sylvester Obol handed over trophies to the winners.
Obol however, warned the players of Gulu Central School against acts of indiscipline saying the school exhibited more cases of unsportsmanly conduct.
Rhinos 48 KIU 43
Power 61 Najja 51
UCU 79 MBC Rocks 53
Vegetarians 59 SPENA 39
KCC Leopards 67 Amazon 13
CHARGING Rhinos came up strong in the fourth quarter, handing Kampala International University (KIU) an opening 48-43 defeat in one of the MTN basketball league matches played Sunday at the YMCA.
Richard Okila scored 16 points and Mande Juruni added 15 as Rhinos started their 2006 league title campaign with a victory.
The game was tied 43-43, before Juruni scored on a driving lay-up with 42 seconds left. Roger Serunyigo then stole a pass from KIU’s Collins Omondi and was fouled on a lay-up attempt.
Serunyigo then converted 1-of-2 shots from the charity line and David Kiberu scored on a follow shot to open a five-point cushion for Rhinos with 32 seconds left.
Rhinos finished the game on a 12-5 run to post their first league victory.
In other games, Sadolin Power were able to rebuild their advantage to 10 points when Michael Kariuki (19 points) found a slicing Wilbrod Oketcho (24 points) for an easy lay-up as the team coasted to a 61-51 victory over Najja High.
In the women’s encounter, KCC Leopards rallying behind Agatha Baliddawa and Annet Nakiwu, destroyed Amazon Rhinos’ defense for a 67-13 triumph.
In the schools championship, Layibi College, Lango College, Gulu Central and Kitgum High have qualified to represent northern region at the national schools basketball championships set for Ndejje SS May 8-16.
The Northern regional qualifiers were played at Kaunda ground.
Layibi College emerged top in the region with six points after winning all the three games that they played.
Lango College came second with five points after losing one game to Layibi College. Gulu Central were third.
Regional schools basketball coordinator for the north, Sylvester Obol handed over trophies to the winners.
Obol however, warned the players of Gulu Central School against acts of indiscipline saying the school exhibited more cases of unsportsmanly conduct.
