Basketball in Africa

by Sande Bashaija
Wandegeya

To do well in a big championship, it’s ideal to have a fully fit and committed bunch of players. But 2005 MTN-Fuba League women champions A-1 Challenge go into next week’s Zone 5 Championship grappling with ill-preparation due to players’ tight work schedules.
“To play in such a tournament, you need to dedicate at least two weeks to residential training. But you realise that most of our players can’t leave their jobs to enter camp,” A-1 Challenge skipper Ali Mavita revealed on Monday. “It’s a tricky situation for us.”

A-1 Challenge completed the MTN-Fuba League first round undefeated and would ideally be considered top contenders for honours in the regional championship.

But they come up against equally experienced and better prepared opposition. A-1 Challenge finished third in the 2006 Zone 5 held in Nairobi and this year’s edition due in Kampala, starting July 27, presents them a chance to try and go one better.