31 January 2009

TANZANIA : JKT Stars thrash Polisi Dar in Kili RBA league

JKT Stars defeated Polisi Dar es Salaam 80-46 during the RBA Kili Regional Basketball league at the Indoor Stadium in the city yesterday. The victors took off with real intent to win, and they posted a deserved 46-12 lead at the break.
JKT’s Lulu Joseph was outstanding as she netted 24 points, while evergreen Evodia Kazinja scored 19 points. Neema Emmanuel and Anna Paulo netted 18 and 12 points respectively for Polisi Dar es Salaam.

In another match, Don Bosco Lady Lion thrashed Tanzania Prisons 60-44. They took a 24-17 lead at the break. Key players from Don Bosco were Nina Mligu who scored 16 points and Sajda Ahmed scored 15 points. Prisons points were netted by Emelda Hango who scored 18 points while Halima Bali scored 6 points.

KENYA : Mombasa basketball court repossessed

The Coast Basketball Association has received a perfect New Year’s gift from the Mombasa Municipal Council.

Mombasa mayor, Ahmed Mohdhar, has repossessed the Tononoka grounds’ basketball court which was grabbed by a private developer two decades ago and turned into a church.
The mayor has directed that it be renovated into a modern basketball court and given back to the Coast Basketball Association.
And to show his seriousness and willingness to support the game in the Coast Province, mayor Mohdhar has directed the Mombasa Municipal Council engineers to move onto the site and ensure the basketball court, which used to host major tournaments including the Coast schools games before being grabbed in 1993, be renovated into a sports complex with a modern basketball court at the council’s cost.

After succeeding in ensuring the worshippers were out of the venue, the mayor sent a contractor to the site who demolished all the structures that had been erected and put up a perimeter wall around the entire ground and a gate guarded with a municipal council guards to give way for the start of the renovation.
“This is just one of the steps I’m taking to improve the standard of sports in general and basketball in particular at the coast,” Mohdhar said in an interview with the Daily Nation.

He said it was unfortunate that such a social facility could be grabbed by a private developer leaving the youths around the area with no playing grounds and therefore encouraging them to engage in illicit activities.

The mayor recently sponsored a month long basketball tournament which attracted 32 teams from all over the Coast province.

Fully sponsor team

“I want as many teams as possible to play the game of basketball whether it will mean forming the Mombasa Municipal Council’s basketball team, so that it can be easy for us to participate in the inter-cities basketball championships as is the case with other cities like Kampala, Dar es salaam and Arusha,” he said.

Mohdhar and Mombasa town clerk, Tubman Otieno, have promised to fully sponsor the Mombasa team for next year’s inter-cities basketball tournament to be held in Arusha in May.

Coast Basketball Association chairman, Hilmi Ali, said the mayor’s move to repossess the former basketball court was a perfect New Year’s gift saying it will go a long way in encouraging the youths to take up the sport.
“Without these venues, many of the youths had turned into idlers with a big percentage from this densely populated area resorting to the use of drugs and other illicit activities, all which will now be a thing of the past as we intend to use basketball to keep them busy,” said Hilmi who was speaking after the CBA Bank presented the mayor with an assortment of goods for the mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund said.

He praised the mayor and the town kind for the kind gesture and appealed to other individuals and companies to emulate the two.

KENYA : Schools games body worried over no show


With the Nairobi Secondary Schools Sports Association’s first term games already underway, the issue of teams failing to honour their basketball fixtures has again come to haunt the association.

Hillcrest and Aga Khan High opted out of last year’s basketball season. Kenya Muslim is the latest team to concede a walk-over to Nairobi International School on Tuesday evening.
According to the Nairobi Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) secretary general Moses Mbuthia, this trend will adversely affect the future of basketball in the city, as well as having individual talent go to waste.

Busy recruiting

“It’s quite alarming to realise that some schools aren’t taking their fixtures seriously. Whereas schools in other Provinces are busy recruiting and introducing the game to their students, others are losing interest,” lamented Mbuthia.
Echoing the secretary’s sentiments was Nairobi International School director, Radhika Lee She said the withdrawal of teams from the league was a big blow to the development of the game and should be discouraged.
“This is worrying. Where will the national team get new players from, if some schools aren’t taking basketball seriously? This clearly makes individual talent to go to waste,” the director said.

This is a worrying trend. Going by the past statistics, the number of teams that are taking part in the basketball season is going down. Whereas 38 schools had participated in the 2007 qualifiers, this year has 32 same as last year.

Eight matches will be played today as city schools launch their preparation for the national games set for Eastern Province in April. The 32 schools have been divided into eight pools of four teams each.

The first round matches which started last week are scheduled to run until February 19, while the second round duels to be played at NIS and Strathmore School grounds, are planned to start from February 28 to March 7. They will involve 16 teams.

The quarter-finals will be played on March 14, semi-finals on March 21 with the play-offs and finals being held on March 28. The winners of the Nairobi tournament will represent the province during the nationals to be held in Embu in April.

NSSSA fixtures secretary, Peter Manundu said venues for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final will be neutral and the participating teams will be notified at a later date.
“Venues for knockout matches will be such that none of the qualifying teams will enjoy home advantage,” he said.

Fixtures:

Dagoretti High School vs. Karengata Academy, Nairobi International School vs. Kahawa Garrison, Parklands High School vs. Sunshine School, Uhuru High School vs. Ofafa Jericho High School, Hillcrest Academy vs. Light Academy, Langata High School vs. Hospital Hill, Muhuri Muchiri vs. Kangemi Secondary and Kitsuru vs. Eastleigh High School.

KENYA : HomeSports Sports Junior basketball star Olumasi leaves for US on scholarship


By PHILLIP ONYANGO

Kenya under-18 basketball player Mildred Olumasi has all the qualities of a quality sports women who can break into the ranks of the the Womens National Basketball Association (WNBA) if she continues her brilliant performance.
Speaking at farewell party for the player organised by the Coast Secondary Schools Sports Association Chairman Athman Mwinyi Yeya in conjunction with the Nairobi secondary schools sports body, Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association secretary general David Ngugi said Olumasi who left on Sunday for the United States where she will pursue a degree in Marketing at the Union University in Tennessee, had proved that everything is possible with hardwork and asked other students to emulate her.

The 17 year old will be in the United States for five years on Sh6 million scholarship.

Ngugi praised Mombasa High School for changing the lives of several young Kenyans saying the nine students from the school currently in the US on basketball scholarships will be of great help to the country both in a sports and in improving the economy.

29 January 2009

ZIMBABWE : Cavs vs Sigauke...round 3

The weekend sees the clash between perennial rivals Kingdom Cavaliers and Sigauke at the University of Zimbabwe on Saturday. Its1-1 so far this season. Sigauke beating Cavaliers 31-23 in the league on November 8, 2008 at the City Sports Centre. Sigauke will want to forget that game as it cost them the services of mercurial point guard Tawanda Yanga Chitsinde who broke a bone in his left foot. The very next weekend, Cavaliers paid Sigauke back in the quarter-finals of the Premier Knockout Trophy eliminating Sigauke 52-51 a game Sigauke Benjamin Jani will want to forget as he missed 2 free throws with 4 seconds on the clock and Sigauke down 51-52. Both teams have changed manpower considerably with Cavaliers bringing in big men in George Runganga, Thabani Matikiti who team up with veterans Tafi Magician Soko, Mdu Mathe and Sam Parirayi (-G) to form a formidable 5. Sigauke have brought in prodigal son Simba Mhukahuru (213-C-80) back from the cold but have lost 4 youngsters in the half-season break. Shrewd mentor Tafara Makayi has had more time with his team and his combination with Andrew Dru Chitauro seems to be working. On paper Cavaliers has the urge but Sigauke has Yanga back and his brother Taurayi Chitsinde is putting up some impressive numbers. The better team will win and not the team with the better players. Both Sigauke and Cavaliers round up their weekend with games against UZ Stars and NABA Pross.

Game of the week has to be the battle between the Comeback Boys Nuggets against lively Stormers. Both teams field at least 3 U/20 internationals in their lie-up and this is going to be a battle for bragging rights. Nuggets coach Norest Shenje a full Zimbabwe international himself squares up against cunning Linos Ninja Mushongas boys. Nuggets have the edge as they can get really physical whilst Stormers has size.

UGANDA : Injured Afidra to surrender captaincy

Sande Bashaija

Kampala

Isaac Afidra will step down as Sadolin Power skipper after leading the side to the MTN-Fuba League championship in his one-year tenure. Afidra, who is currently nursing a toe injury picked from last year’s final play-off series against Falcons, revealed to Daily Monitor recently that he would be too busy to continue as captain.

“My work schedule this year is going to be very tight. I can’t give 100 percent to the team,” said Afidra, who was appointed captain immediately after he returned from Kampala International University (KIU). Despite missing a big part of last season with a back strain, Afidra returned to spur Power past Uganda Christian University (UCU) Canons and Falcons in the play-off semifinals and finals respectively.

His high-scoring proficiency came to the fore as Power recovered from 1-0 down to win the semifinal series 2-1. Afidra was also outstanding in the finals, which made him a contender for the Most Valuable Player’s (MVP) accolade although he lost to Ben Komakech.

Afidra’s inconsistency this coming season may be a big blow to Power as they seek to retain the league and also impress in the Africa Zone 5 Club Championships.

Afidra has always insisted that Power is a big team capable of competing even without its best players. “I hope we shall meet soon as a team and elect another captain,” he said.

KENYA : Zone Five Qualifiers: KBF asked to include two players in teams

Former Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) treasurer George Omondi "Nyundo" wants forward Yoni Wanambiuro and John Apollo called to the national team for next month's Zone Five qualifiers in Rwanda.
"Nyundo" as Omondi is fondly referred wondered how Kenya Ports Authority KPA (Ladies) and KCB Lions who won the 2008 premier league back to back and yet can not cannot produce the bulk of the national players."
"If, for example, Eagle Wings and Co-op each have five very good players who warrant being in the national team, the five would have been indomitable in the league." he posed.

Wanambiro and Apollo he said are players with great ability and can lead the team well when the going gets rough as they have proved for the many years in the local league.
At the same time, he feels that Kenyatta University "Pirates" long serving tactician Gitau Waringo should have been given a chance with the men’s team.

He noted that without doubt the players selected were good, "but most have not reached that stage where the nation can rely on them to carry the flag high."
He said that more consultations among the stakeholders should have been done before the release of names because this was a national team.
Immediate former chairman Agina Wesonga questioned why KPA Ojukwu was not maintained as the women's coach because he has been handling the women’s side in the league for long.
"Why did they not let Ojukwu handle the women instead because that is where he has the experience and have someone like Ben Oluoch or Gitau Waringo given the task of handling the men's side instead." ? posed Agina.

He asked KBF to move in fast and assemble the teams as soon as they can as there is no time to waste. KBF named the team last week for the tournament slated for Kigali from February 23-29.
"These teams might not have enough time to train adequately for a tournament of this magnitude and it is due to this factor that KBF needs experienced coaches stop experimenting." he said.

KBF last week named thirty nine players that are expected to start training for then Kigali show. The dates for the players assembly was not disclosed neither were the assistant coaches.

by Dann O. Were

FIBA Africa - ANC 2009: Afrobasket 2009 Women assigned to Madagascar


The 2009 FIBA Africa Championship for Women (Afrobasket) has been assigned to Madagascar. This was decided at the recent Board meeting of FIBA Africa that was held in Cairo, Egypt. The 21st Africa Nations Championship for women will be played in the first half of September; the precise date will be announced shortly.

The 2009 Afrobasket Men assignment to Libya has been confirmed. 16 teams will participate from 5 – 15 August.

The FIBA Africa Board has also confirmed the organisation of the 1st Africa Championship for U16 Men and Women. They will be held in 2009 as qualifiers of the 2010 FIBA U17 World Championships. Senegal will be the host for the girls whilst Mozambique will organize the U16 Men.

In order to further boost the development on the continent, FIBA Africa has decided to help certain national federations by providing electronic game equipment (24-second clocks, scoreboards etc) and office equipments (computers, permanent staff, facilities etc). In cooperation with Molten, ball donations are under way and still in progress and many countries have received already their basketballs.

28 January 2009

TANZANIA : Tanzania may miss tourney

By Suleiman Jongo

Tanzania's participation in Africa Zone-5 basketball tournament, hangs in balance as the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) failed to secure funds to prepare two teams for the tourney.

The ten-day regional tournament that kick off on February 23, in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, will bring together men and women teams from Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, Burundi, Somalia and Zanzibar.
BFT secretary general Lawrence Cheyo said in the city yesterday that Tanzania's teams (men and women) were supposed to have started training, but failed to assemble for lack of funds.
The federation had initially drawn a training budget for the two teams of 20 players in each, plus four coaches, but the plan could not take off the ground.
The teams were expected to train for a duration of 6 weeks from mid December, last year.
According to the plan, TBF needed Sh45,406,000 for training purposes plus travel and accommodation expenses while in Kigali.
"We still hope that well wishers and supporters will donate funds to enable us travel to Kigali despite the fact that we are behind the proposed training schedule," said Cheyo.
The training schedule had to see the teams train in a non-residential camps for 14 days at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The teams would then proceeded for residential camp at the same venue for two weeks before heading to Bulyanhulu for another brief training on their way to Kigali by bus.

27 January 2009

TANZANIA : Kili RBA last eight line-up completed

By Suleiman Jongo

Former East and Central Africa champions Vijana "City Bulls" will face Army Basketball Club (ABC) in the quarterfinals of the Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball (RBA) Kili League set to start on February 7.

The two giants are among six teams that qualified for the super eight (quarterfinals) after performing well in the first round of the money-spinning league.

According to fixtures released by the organisers, Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD), JKT will face Chui while the Tanzania Prisons will be up against Oilers and Pazi will play Savio.
The match between Vijana, who are the reigning champions and the army-owned club, ABC, is expected to be tough and exciting owing to their popularity.

Vijana will be relying on the services of their key players like Abdallah Ramadhani (Dulla), who happened to play for Seychelles� Cobra during his professional career.

Their opponents, ABC will also be utilizing the services of their talented players like the league�s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Filbert Mwaipinga and a three-point wizard, Haleluya Kavalambi, who also doubles as a good netballer.

According to the standings, JKT are leading the Eastern Conference Group with 12 points and are followed by the Tanzania Prisons with ten points. ABC are third with nine points and have one formality match in hand to play against Mgulani set for February 1.

Pazi have eight points in the group with one match to spare against JKT ( set for February 1)

The Western Conference group is led by Savio on 12 points followed by Oilers with 11 points. Vijana are third with ten points and Chui are the last with nine points.

26 January 2009

TANZANIA : Vijana hit TM Rockets in RBA league

Vijana ‘The City Bull’ yesterday trounced TM Rockets 88-32 in the ongoing Kili RBA Basketball League. The Western Conference match played at the National Indoor Stadium saw Vijana, who are also the league's reigning champions, on rampage as they outfought, outthought and outcompeted their opponents from the word go.

They took a comfortable 38-9 lead at the breather. Soud Abdulrazack led the assault for the winning side after scoring 21 points, while Emmanuel Mwikalo counted 10 points. Robert Haide and Aziz Zozo scored 11 and 8 points respectively for Rockets, who, however, couldn’t match the rampant Vijana.

In Eastern Conference matches played earlier on the day, JKT walloped Tanzania Prisons 60-42. The winners started the game strongly and were 35-17 up at half time. Leslie Peter was JKT’s top scorer, with 12 points while his fellow Charles Makene scored 10. Prisons’ John Damas and Richard Hoza scored 10 and 8 points respectively.

The group ‘B’ (or Eastern Conference) matches which were initially scheduled for Saturday, was postponed to yesterday following the death of JKT Ladies player, Sifa Omari. Pazi beat University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) outsiders with 62-58 points in the second match. Pazi led by 25-21 points in the closely fought first half and they had to hold their nerves to maintain their four points lead, after the final whistle as Outsiders matched their scoring spree in the final half.

Pazi’s Andrew Ikungura and Denis Chibule scored 18 and 17 points respectively, while Lloyd Mpoli scored 17 points and Claudio Kisanko 11 for the losing side. In the third game, Mgulani beat Craws 79-51. The victors were 45-20 at half time. Edmund Pastory and Christian Jackob scored 25 and 20 respectively for Mgulani, as Eliabu Minja and Godfrey Odida put 19 and 9 respectively for Craws.

FIBA Africa - FIBA Africa looks forward to bright future

The Central Board of FIBA Africa is currently holding its 4th session of its 2006 – 2010 term of office in Cairo, Egypt. In the presence of FIBA President, Mr. Bob Elphinston, and FIBA Secretary General and IOC Member Mr. Patrick Baumann, it is analyzing the progress made by the organisation in 2008.

While the sport results of its teams at the Olympic Games may not have met the expectations of the Board, members are very satisfied with the growing range of activities and competitions that are being launched and with the increase in participation of African countries in all continental events.
Furthermore, this year's AfroBasket in Libya will also be a financial success and will allow FIBA Africa to consolidate its growth and increase its development efforts.
Egyptian Sport Minister to help establishment of permanent FIBA Africa Headquarters in Cairo

The leaders of FIBA and FIBA Africa met during their stay with the Egyptian Sport Minister, HE Hassan Sakr, to discuss inter alia the possibility of establishing a new, larger headquarters for FIBA Africa in Cairo.

Its current headquarters are in function since 1961 when FIBA Africa was established by the late Dr. Abdel Azim Ashry. Cairo also hosts other continental sports organisations such as the African Football Association.

The Minister indicated the government's readiness to find an appropriate piece of land for the construction of new headquarters, similar to the one already made available to the Egyptian Basketball Federation. He also expressed the wish to host the FIBA Central Board in the near future.
The FIBA Africa Central Board conducted by the President of FIBA Africa, Pr Alain EKRA and the Secretary General, Dr. Alphonse BILE will end today.

25 January 2009

TANZANIA : Kili RBA fixtures rescheduled

Dar es salaam Regional Basketball (RBA) Kili league group B matches which were initially set for today, have been postponed following the death of JKT player Sifa Omari. Sifa, the long serving basketball as well as netball player of JKT passed away on Thursday in Dar es Salaam, and according to Basketball Dares Salaam (BD) official Jimmy Nkongo, her burial is due for today in the city.

“We’ve postponed Eastern Conference (group ‘B’) matches to give way for Sifa’s burial ceremony.” The league will continue tomorrow at the National Indoor Stadium in the city with three Western Conference matches on the menu. In the first match reigning champions Vijana (City Bulls) will take on TM Rockets.

The second match will tie up Chui against Savio and the day’s final match will see Hoop Life entertaining PTW. Following last weekend’s results, Vijana sit on third position with eight points in the group followed by Hope Life, who jumped to fourth position from fifth place after attaining seven points while Chui, who were initially on fourth place, slipped to fifth.

PTW Stars are sixth with four points while TM Rockets are trailing the group on three points. The Eastern Conference’s standing shows that JKT are on the pilot seat with eight points followed by the Army Basketball Club (ABC) with seven points. The Tanzania Prisons are third with seven points followed by the giants, Pazi with four points.

The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Outsiders are fifth with four points, while the Crows, who are making their maiden appearance, are glued at the bottom without no point. The weekly-played league has been organized by the BD and sponsored by the Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) through its Kilimanjaro beer brand.

TANZANIA : Thabeet helps Connecticut shut down Notre Dame

Tanzanian Hasheem Thabeet put into another virtuoso performance to help Connecticut Huskies beat Notre Dame 67-61 in US College Basketball League match over the weekend. The Connecticut’s junior center scored 9 points, made 11 rebounds and 5 blocks.

Though on paper his stats don’t look particularly crucial, the numbers don’t come close to describing his contribution. The 7-foot-3 Thabeet and his 7-foot-9 wingspan altered at least as many shots as he blocked, leaving the Irish and their star forward Luke Harangody visibly frustrated at times with their inability to go inside.
“I think Hash’s presence may not show up in five blocked shots,” Connecticut Coach Jim Calhoun said. “It showed up in the fact that terrific players missed shots from point-blank range. They won’t miss those shots again. His presence does that to you. "Every time someone penetrated, they were looking for him.”

It could hardly be said that UConn stopped the nation’s fifth-leading scorer, Harangody, who finished with a game-high 24 points. But Thabeet came away satisfied with his performance. “We talked some after the game,” Thabeet said. “He was more experienced than me last year. “Playing against Roy Hibbert and all the other guys last year really helped me,”

Thabeet added about the former Georgetown center Hibbert. “I didn’t go out and say Luke is not going to score today.” If the inside presence of Thabeet and the senior forward Jeff Adrien (19 rebounds) wasn’t the difference between the teams, it was a large part of it, which was why Calhoun was also frustrated, as his team had 14 3-point attempts in the first half.
“Excitement kind of won over composure,” Calhoun said. “That’s not how we win games. Not when you have Hasheem and Jeff.” It was another marvellous performance by the young Tanzanian basketball player, after he had done it the week before when he managed 15 points and 17 rebounds as Connecticut defeated Seton Hall 76-61.

TANZANIA : Crows taste bitter pills in RBA

By Brown Msyani

The newly promoted Crows need extra-dose to gain composure of the ongoing Kili RBA League.

Lost all their three matches, Crows lead in the worst performance in the group.
The official results from Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball Association (DB) show that the team conceded 254 points which makes an average of 83 points per match.

The team bowed 48-98 to JKT in their opening match and went on to lose 42-93 to ABC in their second match. The team slightly improved its performance in the third match despite losing 55-63 to Pazi.
On top of the performance in the ongoing league are Savio and JKT who have recorded unbeaten runs in the four match onslaught. JKT Stars are at the pilot seat in the Kili Ladies league standing.
Savio have the lowest defeat margin after conceding 164 points in the four-matches to give 41 points margin per match.
The only challenge for Savio came from Vijana City Bulls whom they narrowly beat 56-55 and Oilers whom they thrashed 57-47.
JKT lead the Western Conference in excellence. The team began their title winning campaign with 98-48 win over Crows, then they beat Mgulani 80-38, ABC 63-51 before beating UDSM Outsiders 60-58 in their fourth match.

League veterans Jeshi Stars and JKT Stars are leading the table in the Ladies league after winning all their matches. Both teams are yet to concede a defeat.

LIBERIA : ‘High School Basketball Champs Will Go Int'l’ -LBF Chief Scribe Declares

The Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF), Mr. Fred Pratt, on Thursday, January 15 revealed that plans were on the way for the male and female champs in High School league from the Zone 3 region to partake in an international high school skirmish.

24 January 2009

TANZANIA : RBA league continues in Dar

By Malyo Njedengwa

Six matches are in this weekend`s menu of the ongoing Kili RBA to be played at the National Indoor Stadium.
Today’s pairings have Vijana versus TM Rockets, Savio take on Chui and Hoopelife meet PTW.
In tomorrow`s fixtures, Tanzania Prisons take on JKT, Pazi versus UDSM Outsiders while Mgulani meet Crow. The league is now heading towards quarterfinal stages.

23 January 2009

UGANDA : Former MVP Blick joins champs Power

by Sande Bashaija
Kampala

Former MTN-Fuba League two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Norman Blick yesterday completed a move to champions Sadolin Power, ending speculation over his future.

Power and mid-table side Miracle Eagles have been chasing Blick’s signature for the past one month but the champions finally won the battle with the utility player signing a two-year contract worth Shs20m. “I am excited about joining Power. They are representing the country and hopefully I will do well with them in the Zone 5 Championship,” Blick said after putting pen to paper at Steak Out Bar yesterday.

The 2001 and 2004 MVP was summoned to the national team preparing for the Africa Zone 5 Championship qualifiers due next month, something he said is motivating him to make another big impact in his career. The reigning MVP Ben Komakech attended the signing ceremony and said he was pleased to have Blick on the squad. “I hope he will help us retain our title and do well in the Zone 5 tournament,” Komakech said.

Blick, who spurred Nkumba Marines to back to back championships in 2004 and 2005 was a free agent having sat out last year’s local season. He made the switch with his brother Donald Blick, whose transfer will cost Power Shs15m over two years. Donald will be returning from United Kingdom next month to team up with his brother at Power. The champions are also plotting to sign 2005 MVP Boniface Okello from Nkumba Marines.

KENYA : Zone 5 2009 Afrobasket Qualifiers: Kenya names teams for Kigali at last

Professional player Peter Kiganya was yesterday named in the national men's side that will represent the country in the Zone Five Fiba Africa qualifiers in Kigali, Rwanda latter next month.

Kiganya, who plays pro basketball in South America and Cedric Osore, a student who plays at Weco were among the nineteen players that will stat training for the tournament whose winners will represrent the regional in the Africa championships.

National champions Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) Lions have produced four players including last year's MVP Victor Odendo and Tobias Onyango while runners up, Co-operative Bank of Kenya will have five among them Cliff Ochieng.

Coaching the men will be Anthony Ojukwu of national women champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) while a High School coach Philip Onyango will handle the women. The week long event throws off in Kigali on 23.

Kenya's opponents in the show namely host Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda have so far name their sides and are in strict residential training. The other nations expected are Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Burundi and favouries Egypt.

KPA will provide three players to the side while leaue runners up, Eagle Wings will have five among them the high riding forward Anastasa Njeri. The side will consist of 20 players and will include three high school girls.

The national women's, who are ranked 58th in the world last tournament was in Senegal in 2007 where they ended up last in a 12 team competition. The men's last assignment at the continental level was in 1993 in Nairobi ladies.

Women
Point Guard
1. Hellen Oketch (KPA)
2. Everlyne Adhiambo (MSA)
3. Samba Mjomba (Sprite Storms)
4. Eunice Ouma (Eagle Wings)
5. Grace Wanjiku (Stratmore)

Two man
6. Hilda Indasi (Sprite Storms)
7. Debra Obunga (Kisumu Lake Side)
8. Brenda Odula (Sprite Storms)
9. Linda Nyikuli (Eagle Wings)

Three Man
10. Sunday Norah (USIU)
11. Annastasia Njeri (Eagle Wings)
12. Everlyne Akoth (KPA)
13. Diana Adikinyi) (USIU)

Four Man
14. Purity Adhiambo ( Shimba Hills)
15. Virginia Awino (Langata High)
16. Brigid Awino (Eagle Wings)
17. Maureen Atieno (KTTC)

Center
18. Caroline Majeng (Eagle Wings)
19. Beril Amayo (Strathmore)
20. Yvonne Akinyi (KPA)

MEN
Point Guard
1. Wycliff Ochieng - Coop
2. Dan Okwiri - KPA
3. Tiberious Menya – Strathmore
4. Paul Onyango - KCB

Two Man
5. Tobias Onyango - KCB
6. Ligere Griffin - Pirates
7. Kevin Samora - KCB
8. Moses Mwangi - Coop

Three Man
9. Victor Odendo - KCB
10. Franklin Delano - Posta
11. Cedric Osore – Weco Versity

Four Man
12. John Paul - Posta
13. Richard Osano - Coop
14. Patrick Kirui - KPA
15. George Kamau - Coop

Center
16. Eric Nyamae – Lake side
17. Rodger Mutai - Coop
18. William Odhiambo - Posta
19. Peter Kiganya - Proffesional

22 January 2009

LIBERIA : LBF stages workshop Saturday

The Liberia Basketball Federation will on Saturday January 24, 2009 stage a one day workshop for coaches under the Liberia Basketball Fedration. The secretary General of the Federation Fred Pratt Fred Pratt said the workshop is expected to bring together over 30 basketball coaches and will be facilitated by the Chief Referee of the Liberia Basketball Referees Association and some season coaches. The LBF Chief Scribe also disclosed that the 2008-09 national league will commence on February 4, 2009.

from africabasket.com

UGANDA : Afidra, Okias out of team set for Africa Zone 5 Champions’p

by Sande Bashaija
Kampala

Sadolin Power skipper Isaac Afidra and three-time MTN-Fuba League top soccer Stephen Okias have been left out of the national team preparing for the Africa Championship Zone 5 qualifiers due next month in Burundi.

Afidra, who was instrumental as Power outclassed record league champions Falcons to lift their third championship, is nursing a toe injury, according to Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) assistant general secretary Joseph Manano.

Okias also sprained his ankle and knee as Warriors bowed out at the league semifinal stage last year. The duo didn’t turn up for trials held last weekend at Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono as the team was trimmed from 39 to 20 players. The Malinga brothers Henry and Eric plus their Falcons teammate Sam Obol also missed the one-day trials but were included on the team.
“All players that didn’t attend the trials were given consideration but its unfortunate some stars are going to miss the tournament,” Manano said yesterday. Warriors team captain Brian Gumisiriza, who struggled with knee problems in the league play-offs, has also been left out.

Manano said the selected players would begin non-residential training today evening. The Seychelles-based Stephen Omwony is expected to link up with the team later this month.

The two-time former Most Valuable Player has however said that he hasn’t been contacted by Fuba. “We hope to get in touch with him (Omony) soon after sorting out the logistical requirements,” Manano said last week.

ZIMBABWE : Leopards x Pross 51-44

Varsity Leopards made heavy work of a resurgent Pross winning 51-44. The game was so close that Varsity needed a couple 3 pointers in the last 3 minutes to separate themselves from Pross. Pross unwillingness to practice was evident in them giving up a 5 point lead in the last 5 minutes of the game and handing victory to Leopards.


Taru and the Pross bench look on......



Varsity Leopards winning smiles on the bench led by Costa Dinha......

ZIMBABWE : Raiderz x UZ Stars 69-37

Raiderz beat luckless UZ Stars 69-37 to keep them intouch with the top group. Coach Ngoni Mukukula knows if he has any hope of staying in the league race this season his charges have to excel and that means they have to win every game. Sunday's victory was a nice warm-up battle for the war that Raiderz has to win


Raiderz bench looks on...Coach Ngoni Mukukula far left in floral shirt



No prayer can save UZ Stars.......

ZIMBABWE : JBC x Jammers

JBC men opened the second half of the season with a 68-27 victory over Faith Wear Jammers. Both teams were fielding depleted sides as both teams only had 5 players. But the size advantage for JBC was clear and limited Jammers to a solitary Elton Antonio bucket in the 1st quarter while dropping 22 points on Jammers. JBC's Eric Banda was uncompromising scoring 32 points with a mixture of 3's and 2's.Jammers had no answer and were left to rue the absence of key players Lloyd Munyanira and Tapiwa Chirenda. Coach Blessing Zhaimu put up a brave face but it was not to be.


JBC Artwell Dzikiti(4), Eric Banda(9), Innocent Sithole(12), Coach Adison Chiware


Faith Wear Jammers Elton Antonio(4), Gareth Nyika(14), A Maigurira(6), T Chidzedzedze(12), Coach Blessing Zhaimu

FIBA Africa – Meeting: The Executive Committee will host its 6th Session on 22nd January in Cairo

The Executive Committee of FIBA Africa will host its sixth (6th) Session of 2006 – 2010 Term –Office on Thursday 22nd January 2008 in Cairo, Egypt.
This meeting will be conducted by FIBA Africa’s President, Pr Alain EKRA and attending by secretary General, Dr Alphonse BILE with the other members.
During the meeting, The Executive Committee will have to make proposals and take decisions.
The Executive Committee’s meeting will be followed by the meeting of Presidents and Secretaries General of zone on 23rd January and also by the third Session of Central Board to b held the 25th and 26th January in Cairo, Egypt.

Members of FIBA Africa’s Executive Committee list

1. Alain EKRA : President
2. Alphonse BILE : Secretary Général
3. Adel TOOMA : Assistant Secretary General
4. Abdel Hamid MASSOUD : Treasurer Général
5. Boujemaa Larguet JDAINI : President of technical Commission
6. Raouf MENJOUR : President of Commission of Competitions
7. Fodé Amara CONDE : President Commission of women Basketball and youth

UGANDA : ANC 2009: Basketball Teams Start Taking Shape

The men's and women's squads of Uganda getting set for next month's Zone Five Africa Naations championship qualifiers in Rwanda will start training next week.

The original list of 39 men and 38 women has been trimmed to 18 players per team following the one-day trials held over the weekend in Mukono.
The two squads will attend the training sessions planned to take place four times a week.
"We have planned to have training on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday every week," said Peter Kirabo, executive secretary for local governing body FUBA.
Only 12 players will eventually be selected for either side that will travel to Rwanda to compete for the two qualification slots in the respective categories.

However, the two 18-player lists are not definitive and a player(s) who are not named thereon but are eventually deemed good enough to make the final teams could be included.
"We have made allowance for those professional players who might come (into the reckoning) later," Kirabo explained.

Kirabo's statement is mainly a reference to national player Steven Omony who is on a professional stint in the Seychelles and has been contacted by the federation to join the men's national team.
The two-time former national league MVP was officially contacted by FUBA and he positively responded.
"I'm available to contribute to the cause of the national team and would like you (FUBA) to write to my team (PLS Hawks) to request for my release which should not be a problem. As soon as that is sorted out, I will be available to travel back and join the rest of the team," said Omony in his response to the basketball federation's request.

Kirabo explained that they had subsequently requested Omony for a valuation of what it would cost in having him take part and in the qualifiers and are still awaiting a response.

Charles Mutebi

21 January 2009

UGANDA : Hawks pull out of league

by Sande Bashaija
Kampala

Gulu Hawks will not take part in this year’s MTN-Fuba League. The upcountry side revealed they have been forced out by the local governing body-Fuba’s double standards in running the league. “It is unfortunate that we can’t play league basketball any longer. We have a feeling we can’t co-exist with the current Fuba (Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations) administration. They can’t consider our views at any time,” Gulu Hawks player-cum team manager Denis Akena told Daily Monitor on phone.

Being an upcountry club, Gulu Hawks have always struggled to raise funds to make it for league games in Kampala. “Last year we requested for postponement of two games (against Power and Warriors) but Fuba wouldn’t listen,” Akena said.
“Whenever we come to Kampala, we are made to play two games in a space of few hours which is a threat to players’ health.” As a way of minimizing costs, Akena revealed that players are forced to spend nights out instead of checking into hotels.

20 January 2009

TANZANIA : Oilers and Savio dominate RBA Kili League

By Suleiman Jongo

Oilers and Savio maintained their dominant performances in the Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball (RBA) Kili League to stay top of the Western Conference group.

Oilers who are questing for their first title, trounced new comers in the league, Hope Life, 63-60 in a match, which was played on Sunday.
The victory enabled them to lead the group with 11 points followed closely by Savio, who are second with ten points after winning their Sunday�s encounter 65-39 against PTW Stars.
A towering Jije Makani netted ten points for Savio with four offensive and ten defensive rebounds. He had also one block and committed four fouls. Makani, who also plays for the regional and national teams, was too good at scoring and dribbling. He was closely assisted by George Tarimo, who scored nine points.

Reigning champions, Vijana (City Bulls) who were not in action on Sunday, are third with eight points in the group followed by Hope Life, who jumped to fifth position from the fourth place after attaining seven points while Chui, who were initially on fourth place, slipped to fifth after Sunday�s results.
PTW Stars are sixth with four points while TM Rockets are trailing the group on three points. The Eastern Conference�s teams did not play on Sunday and JKT are still leading it with eight points followed by the Army Basketball Club (ABC) with seven points.
The Tanzania Prisons are third with seven points followed by the giants, Pazi with four points following a bad start. The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Outsiders are fifth with four points as well while the Crows, also making their maiden appearance, are at the bottom without a point.

The weekly-played league has been organized by the Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) and sponsored by the Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) through its Kilimanjaro beer.

RWANDA : Rwanda to host Zone V Qualifiers

BY JULIUS MBARAGA

AFTER successfully hosting the 2007 Zone V African Basketball Championship qualifiers, Fiba has rewarded Rwanda by letting her host this year’s edition, Times Sport has learnt

The championship, scheduled for February 23-March 1 will be held at the newly refurbished Amahoro Indoor stadium and just like in 2007, the likes of Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda among others are expected to raise the tempo in the one-week tournament.
Up to date, the ministry of Sports and Culture (Minispoc) in conjunction with the local basketball governing body, Ferwaba are the official organizers and sponsors but Ferwaba expects more sponsors to come on board.
“We are optimistic that sponsors will come on board in the next few weeks,” Ferwaba’s Secretary General Jean Lucien Mugabo said.
After summoning 15 local based players for non-residential training early this month, Mugabo also disclosed that the federation had contacted six foreign based players to beef up the squad.
Hamza Ruhezamihigo, MVP at the 2007 Zone V Championship and currently playing for Canada’s Concordia Stingers is one of the six players.
The team’s training sessions are being handled by Vaceslave Kavedzija, the national basketball coach.
Mugabo also believes that between now and mid February, the federation will try to sieve out the best players for the tournament.

In 2007, Rwanda finished second to Egypt thereby earning a maiden appearance in the Afro-basket competition which was hosted by Angola, Africa’s basketball giants.
Rwanda went on to finish 12th in the competition which Angola won for a record nine times.

TANZANIA : Zone 5 Inter Cities: Arusha all set for Inter Cities show in March

AT last Arusha was confirmed as the host city for the 11th edition of the Inter Cities basketball championships of zone 5.

Fears were abounding that the Tanzanian city was not ready to host the tournament that is slated to throw off from March 24-28 but Inter Cities executive officer Agina Wesonga told Fiba Afrique that the event is on.
"We can confirm to you that the event will be played in Arusha as per the said dates and will be not moved elsewhere. We talked to the local organising committee and everything has been put in place." said Agina.

Agina who was in Arusha together with chairman Simon Msoffe and treasurer Joy Olinga, said they were well received by the host city and even had talks an made venue visits accompanied by Lowrence Heddi, His Worship the Lord Mayor.
"Arusha are working hard to renovate the match venues. His Worship the Mayor showed a lot of interest and will personally be involved in many things including inviting all the mayors for the championships." said Agina.

The team, together with the Mayor visited match venues which will be ready in time for the championships. The main one being Soweto and another one which will have its back boards fixed.
He said that the team also visited few hotels where the players and officials will be accomodated and the rates are affordable. The LOC will write to teams who will then chose the places they want going by their allocations before reservations are done.
There will a two day referees clinic to be done by a Fiba Africa instructor that will gauge the referees who will officiate in the five day event that will draw teams from Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda.
Agina also said that this time round other cities from South Africa, Mozambique, Somali and Zambia have also shown interest and for the first time ever, could grace the show.
The LOC will provide internal transport, water and will ensure security is put in place for all the teams taking part in the tournament. The team will return to Arusha next month to see the gains made.
"Other than the Arusha Municipal Council, other members of the LOC are area business men while the East Africa Community secretariat will also play a key role in making this event a success.
Dar es salaam man end Kampala City Council (KCC) Leopards are the defending champions. Nairobi which missed last year's show in Dar due to financial constraints, will take part.
"We will sure take teams to the Arusha tournament and reclaim our crowns." said Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) chairman Ronny Owino who over the weekend told his office to start preparations.

NIGERIA : First Deepwater complete women league slot and open training ahead Zenith Premier League

Nigeria latest women club, First Deepwater basketball club recently completed its move to be part of the Nigeria Women Premier league as it rounded up negotiation with the management of Dodan Amazons basketball club in one of the nation’s most transparent take-over moves.

Both sides (Dodan Amazons led by its Coordinator, Col. Sam Ahmedu (Rtd) and First Deepwater basketball club led by its chairman, Engr. Babatunde Babalola) were engaged in a take-over talk since last December which culminated in the final agreement last week.
With the development, First Deepwater basketball club of Lagos has now taken the place of the Amazons in the Nigeria Basketball Federation, NBBF, organized Nigeria Women Premier League sponsored by financial institution giant, Zenith Bank Plc in the 2008/ 2009 season expected to dunk-off in early March, 2009 and beyond.

First Deepwater basketball club which held a successful screening of players for its outfit resume training Monday ahead the new season with fourteen players out of the seventeen that made it from the screening exercise in attendance.The fourteen players who were at Monday practice session includes, Patricia Chukwuma, Mary Chinweukwu, Dorcas Jiya, Juliet Ejogo, Julie Onyelugo, Temitope Oladele, Rebecca Iritei, Magdalene Ukato, Memuna Fuludu and Joan Afimia.
Others are Nkechi Akashili, Folashade Ogunsemoyin, Ijeoma Uchendu and Kelechi Obasi while the three players who are still been expected are Kikelomo Saliu, Atosu Upe and Chinenye Okoro.
Club chairman, Engr. Babalola at the weekend charged the players to be honest, hardworking and dedicated to their duties and leave the rest to the management of the team for a positive outing in the coming season.

By: Olusegun Ikuesan

FIBA Africa

19 January 2009

TANZANIA : Prisons too good for Crows

Prisons had a lion’s share of possession in the action-packed match and could have registered three-digit score had their players fully exploited numerous scoring chances they created.
Richard Rover, one of Prisons’ dependable players, was at his best in the game. He covered much ground for his team and slotted in game-high 25 points.
Rover led Prisons’ attacks throughout the match as his side pressed for more points and he was as accurate as ever whenever he aimed at Crows’ hoop.
Benson George and Samwel Sige scored 11 points apiece and skipper John Damas added six points for Prisons.
George, a muscular player, was also terrific both defensively and offensively. He made the most of offensive rebounds to score and skilfully dished numerous assists to team mates whenever he pushed upfront.
Prisons managed to pin down their rather inexperienced opponents in the first two quarters to lead 37-15 at half time.
Crows, however, refused to buckle down to Prisons’ pressure and produced flashes of fancy displays that won it a couple of points at the closing stages of the third quarter.
Their hard working skipper Ally Zuberi and Alphayo Kisusi at times posed threat to Prisons’ defense with skilful runs and dribbling techniques but lacked support from team mates.
Zuberi and Kisusi scored 10 points apiece to emerge top scorers in their team. Team mate George Adida made a series of strong runs towards Prisons’ hoop but his slam dunks’ attempts were futile
Prisons’ noisy cheering fans again stole show on the stands as they backed their team with endless chanting of encouraging words.

18 January 2009

TANZANIA : Savio thrash PTW in basketball league

Former champions Savio thrashed hapless PTW Stars 65-39 in the men’s RBA basketball league match at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The Western conference match saw Savio irresistible from the onset, as they dominated the game and scored points almost at will.

The victors took a 31-15 lead at the break. Evergreen Jije Makani and George Tarimo were the top point scorers for Savio. The duo scored 10 and nine points respectively. PTW Stars points were netted by Hosea Balaigwa, who netted 15 points, while Abbas Hussein scored six points.

The day also saw Western conference leaders Oilers beating Hoop Life 63-60 in a seesaw encounter. The match started in a cracking pace as both team exchanged quick points in turn. Oilers, who were much into the limelight, were leading 30-23 lead at the break.

Hoop Life’s Misoji Charles netted 24 points, while his team mate William Muze managed 14 points. Oilers highest scorers were Gerald Balu, who scored 20 points and Lusajo Samwel netted ten points. The league, which is sponsored by Kilimanjaro Premium Lager, will continue at the same venue on Saturday.

17 January 2009

TANZANIA : Jeshi Stars beat Don Bosco in RBA league

Jeshi Stars laboured yesterday to beat determined Don Bosco-Lady Lions in the 58-53 in the RBA Ladies match at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The match started in a cracking pace with both teams exchanging quick points in turn.

In the first quarter the scoreboard read 12-11 in favour of the victors. The battle was even fierce in the second quarter, which saw the two sides tied on 15 points apiece. But Jeshi Stars came a stronger side in the third quarter as they completely outsmarted, out thought and outfought their opponents to record a 17-8 points.
Don Bosco retaliated in the last quarter and somehow they managed to reduce the tally. Jeshi Stars Anomiasta Antony scored 16 points while here team mate Faraja Malaki netted 15 points. Amina Ahmed and Mina Mliga scored 15 points apiece for Don Bosco Lady Lions. Jeshi Stars are now placed second with four points, two behind leaders JKT Stars.

In the men’s category ABC were too strong for UDSM outsiders, after the army men recorded 80-61 win in the Eastern conference tie. ABC’s Haleluya Kavalambi scored massive 25 points, while his team mate Gilbert Batungi netted 23 points. Claudio Kisanko and Masatu Makale of UDSM Outsiders scored 12 and 10 points respectively. Other match in the same group yesterday pitted Pazi and Mgulani JKT. The fomer won 49-31.

UGANDA : Omony looking to make an impact in Zone 5

By Charles Mutebi

SEYCHELLES-based Ugandan basketball star Stephen Omony says he would be delighted play in the Zone Five African Basketball Championship qualifiers in Rwanda next month.

The two-time local MVP was named in the 39-man preliminary men’s squad by governing body FUBA last week.
Omony says he would not think twice about heeding the national call provided his travel requirements are sorted out.
“I have not been contacted by anyone from FUBA but I was thrilled upon hearing that I had been included on the list of players expected to turn out for trials,” Omony remarked.
The player is the 2007 Seychelles Basketball Federation MVP who currently turns out for the PLS Hawks.

FUFA technical committee organising Secretary Joseph Manano had earlier said that the federation is still sorting out all the potential logistical requirements.
Manano clarified that Omony would not need to undergo trials.
“Omony is a player on a different (technical) level compared to our local players and may not need to be in that (final vetting) selection exercise,” Manano said.

The official had also expressed confidence that the honour of representing Uganda would prove too enticing for the Mogas Falcons great to turn down –– and he was right.
“I am ready to pick up bags and travel back to Kampala in order to play for my country," Omony said.
Omony explained that what he is waiting for FUBA's word. The player added that he would move if "we agree on whether they can pay for my ticket.”

TANZANIA : RBA Kili League action on in Dar

By Suleiman Jongo

The popular Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball (RBA) Kili league, rages today at the National Indoor Stadium in the city with four matches on the menu.

Army Basketball Club will take on the University of Dar es Salaam�s Outsiders.
The two teams are placed in the Eastern Conference group. ABC are second placed in the latest standing with seven points from four outings, while the Outsiders are in the fifth slot with four points after winning one match and losing two others.

The group is being led by JKT who are on top of the league table with eight points after winning all four matches, while Tanzania Prisons are in front of ABC with seven points as well.
Pazi, who will also be in action today against Mgulani, are fourth placed with four points after winning one match and losing two others.
Tanzania Prisons will also have a date with tail enders in the Eastern Conference, the Crows. The newly promoted team, which is making a maiden appearance in the money-spinning league, are in the last seven position with three points after losing all three encounters.
The latest standing also shows that Oilers are on a driving seat of the Western Conference group with nine points, while former regional title holders, Savio, are following up with eight matches.
Reigning champions and the former East and Central African champions, Vijana (City Bulls), are in third place with eight points as well.
Chui are in fourth place with six points, while Hope Life, also new comers in the weekly played league, are in the fifth place with the same points.
PT Stars and TM Rockers are sixth and seventh placed with three points each.Another match in today's fixture will pit Jeshi Stars against Don Bosco Queens in the women's discipline.

The women group is currently being lead by JKT Stars with six points. Jeshi Stars are second placed with four points. Cargo Ladies are third placed with four points, while Police Dar es Salaam, have four points as well.
Don Bosco Queens are in the fifth position with three points, while Tanzania Prisons are tail enders with three points.

The league has been organised by Basketball Dar es Salaam and sponsored by the Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) through Kilimanjaro beer.

16 January 2009

LIBERIA : 1000 basketballs

The Federation of International Basketball Association (FIBA) is to shortly dispatch one thousand basketballs to Libera. According to the Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation Fred Pratt the promise was made recently during the just ended FIBA Zone III Technical meeting held in the Benin capital Cotonou. The LBF Chief Scfribe said the balls is a part of the FIBA development program to countries. FIBA has also promised to asist the country with a 24 second clock.

15 January 2009

EGYPT : Round 12: Zamalek crushes Jeish & Shorta injuries Somouha

Ruond 12 : Zamalek got an easy win over Jeish with 23 points,Zamalek keeps chasing Gezira to the top with only one point before they face each other next week.The big game between Gezira and Zamalek will be held in Zamalek hall 2 with out fans after the problems happened in ahlys game. Shorta police injured Somouha who got the 6th defeat this season to share sporting the 7th posision.Other results : Gezira 88-66 Shams, Itthad 92-78 Olympi ,Ahly beated Gasco,Sporting beated Shark Ins.

from africabasket.com

UGANDA : National team trials for Africa Zone 5 moved to Mukono

by Sande Bashaija
Kampala

Trials to select the national team for the Africa Championship Zone 5 qualifiers have been moved from the traditional YMCA Wandegeya courts to Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono.

Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) said yesterday the trials would take place this Saturday as they try to sieve out the best players for the tournament due next month in Bujumbura, Burundi.
“All respective players are informed to be at YMCA by 8:30am on Saturday. They will later be transported to Mukono,” Fuba technical committee official Donan Byabazaire communicated in an e-mail yesterday.
39 men and 31 women have been summoned for the trials that will be conducted and supervised by a nine-man panel including coaches and technical committee members.
Coaches for the two teams (men and women) will be selected from a list including Nimrod Kaboha, Tom Ocamringa, Jason Mehl, Hamza Nyambongo, Timothy Odeke, Nelson Onyunta and Samuel Samanya.
Joseph Manano, the Fuba assistant general secretary has warned that any player who fails to show up for the trials won’t be included on the team. Only the Seychelles-based Stephen Omwony has been given dispensation to skip the trials.
Meanwhile, Fuba is set to hold a consultative meeting with team managers on Sunday to chart the best way to have an organized league. The MTN-sponsored league, set to begin next month is likely to attract more teams.
Sadolin Power are the reigning top flight league champions, having beaten Falcons in last season’s final.

13 January 2009

UGANDA : Omwony named on national squad

By Charles Mutebi
and Johnson Were

LOCAL basketball governing body FUBA are confident Steven Omwony will join the men’s team at next month’s Zone Five Africa Basketball Championship qualifiers in Rwanda. Omwony is on a professional stint in the Seychelles.
“Though he is playing in the Seychelles, I’m confident he will want to come because playing at the tournament will give him the chance for more exposure,” said organising secretary Joseph Manano.

Also called is former Nkumba Marines point Guard and shooting forward Norman Blick.
FUBA’s technical committee released a preliminary list of 39 men and 38 ladies from whom 12 players will be selected for either team set to vie for a place in Africa’s elite basketball competition with, at most, nine other teams.

The squad: N. Wafula, N. Blick, R. Kasewu, S. Okias, B. Gumisiriza, J. Etalu, B. Komaketch, J. Ikong, I. Afidra, K. Balyejusa, M. Enabu, A. Tawoda, D, Kiberu, F. Tumusime, E. Malinga, B. Sentongo, I. Lugudde S. Obol, H. Malinga.

Others are: I. Enabu, Senfuka, H. Akita, M. Olobo, M. Juruni, C. Bisereko, B. Okello and J. Lutwama.
C. Jejje, I. Bwire, S. Ssali, M. Otem and M. Waswa.

UGANDA : Zone V ANC 2009 Qualifiers : Omony, Blick named on National squad

Professional Steven Omwony has been included on Uganda’s team for the Zone 5 Africa championship qualifiers due to be held from February 23 - March 1 in Kigali, Rwaanda.
Omwony, who turns out for PLS Hawks of Seychelles, leads a list of 39 players that have been invited for trials.
“We are determined to have Omwony on the team. We are looking around for funds to facilitate his travel,” Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) assistant general secretary Joseph Manano said yesterday.
Also included on the team is former two-time most valuable player Norman Blick, who returned to the country recently after a three-month playing stint with UK’s Southampton Trailblazers.
All players apart from Omwony will be subjected to trials on Sunday.
“Omony has a proven record and there is no need for him to come for trials,” Manano noted.
MTN-FUBA League champions Sadolin Power dominate the men’s team with seven players. They include Isaac Afidra, Joseph Ikong, Mark Enabu, David Kiberu, Ben Komakech, Ken Balyejusa and Allan Tawoda.
Despite failing to make the finals, Warriors are also well represented with Joshua Etalu, Brian Gumisiriza, Ronnie Kasewu and Nelson Wafula.
The women’s team has also been summoned to begin preparations.
FUBA's technical committee released a preliminary list of 39 men and 38 ladies from whom 12 players will be selected for either team set to vie for a place in Africa Nations Championship.



By: Sande Bashaija

12 January 2009

TANZANIA : Chui, JKT Queens win

By Hamidu Ibrahim

Chui defeated Hooplife 61-71 in a Kili RBA basketball league men`s match at the Indoor Stadium yesterday.
The winners led 24-14 until the breather as Doto Charles scored 15 points and Kulwa Mbozo 10 to earn them the victory.
Top scorers for the losers were Misoji Charles who scored 17 points and Shabiru Hamisi (10).

JKT Queens hit Tanzania Prisons 79-29 in a game played on the same ground.
Untill the half time, JKT were leading 43-19. Lulu Joseph scored 26 points and Evodia Kazinja 17 to emerge the top scorers for JKT.
Halima Bori and Zuhura led the scoreboard for Prisons when they registered 11 and seven points, respectively.

11 January 2009

TANZANIA : DB Lioness maul Police 64-31 in Kili RBA ladies encounter

By Brown Msyani

Amina Ahmed yesterday steered Don Bosco Lioness to hefty 64 -31 victory over Police Dar es Salaam in a one-sided Kili RBA League encounter at the National Indoor Stadium.

The hard fighting lady scored 16 points for the winners followed by her team mate Nina Mliga who posted 14 points.
In the first quarter, DB Lioness ladies finished 20-8 points and extended their lead to 31-18 at the end of the first half.
The winners added 33 more points in the second half compared to 13 points Police garnered in the two remaining quarters.
Police's Aisha Sembuli scored eight points while her team mate Neema Emanuel managed to post seven points.
Until yesterday, five teams were sure of their places in the league's quarter final stage following their impressive show in the three preliminary matches.
The teams include the defending champions Vijana City Bulls, Savio, JKT, ABC and Tanzania Prisons.
Savio have won all their matches while ABC, Vijana and Prisons lost one match each.

Organised by the Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball Association (DB) under the sponsorship of Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) the league continues today at the same venue with five matches on the fixture.

LIBYA : Libyan League week 6

This week's highlight was the derby game between the rivals Ittihad and Ahli Tripoli , Ittihad enters this game as the league leaders while Ahli Tripoli struggling in the fifth place looking to improve their position.

Ahli started the game perfectly dominating the defense and the offense while Ittihad players lacked concentration as they missed many open shots and lost the ball many times the first quarter ended 20-17 for Ahli.

Ittihad looked more confident in the second quarter as Ali Al msellati entered in the second quarter and scored valuable points including a three point shot in the last seconds to tie the game 33-33 as the first half ended.
In the third quarter Ahli players could not keep up the pace as they missed more than 7 three point shots , Ittihad took the lead ending the third quarter 57-51 for them.
In the forth quarter Ahli managed to cut the lead but they suffered from the loss of their center the Cameroonian player Manica George as he committed his fifth foul , Ittihad took advantage and ended the game 81-77.

Manica George from Ahli Tripoli was the game's top scorer with 26 points while his teammate Musa Borima was the top rebounder with 15 rebounds.
With this result Ittihad stay unbeaten on the top of the league , Ahli drops to seventh.

the other results :
Hilal - Moroj 57-56
Nasr - Ahli Benghazi 80-63
Shabab - Madina 63-54

from africabasket.com

MOROCCO : 10th round

ASS Sale - RCA Casablanca : 83-68
ASS clearly defeated RCA 79-67, led by Basic Yougoslav who scored 23 points and Masbahi Zakaria who had 22 points and 8 rebounds. Zouita end the game once again in a double digits (15 pts, 10 rebounds) confirming his excellent state of form. Despite the excellent game of Najah Abderrahim (20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks), this is the second defeat in a row for RCA and could cost the qualification to the play-offs.

MAS Fes - KAC Knitra : 77-76
MAS confirmed its great moment beating KAC after a very close game 77-76. Matar Mbaye scored 20 points to lead his team, that is holding now the fourth place.

WAC Casablanca - FUS Rabat : 66-62
WAC took a very important win at home over FUS in a very close end of game. Karim Layadi was the man of the game provoking 7 fouls (most of them in money time) and scoring 16 points, and FUS answered with Ismael Ndaye who had 22 points and 4 rebounds.

ASE Essaouira - CMC Casablanca : 78-69
ASE prevailed at home over last ranked CMC. Moustafa Kaabour was the best for ASE and Zahid Taoufik for CMC, both of them scoring 17 points.

IRAN Nadir - IRT Tanger : 79-84
Reigning champion IRT made fantastic road victory in Nador where new head coach Nizar Mesbahi managed to turn the game in the fourth quarter. IRAN was a better team in the first three quarters. But IRT players reacted in the last quarter and secured the game. Jules Richard (20 points and 4 rebounds) and Youness Idrissi (17 points, 8 rebounds) were the best IRTs players. This time Dodo Faye (21 points, 5 rebounds) and Adnane Msaadia (24 points) could not save IRAN from his second home defeat this season.

from africabasket.com

10 January 2009

TANZANIA : Arusha to host inter-city basketball tourney

East and Central African states inter-city basketball tournament will be held in Arusha in March. Preparations for the meet billed to attract the best basketballers in the region are underway.

Ali Jua Mwakalinga, Arusha’s Basketball Association chairman said Arusha has embarked on vigorous daily training at the Soweto grounds in Kaloleni area to make sure that they emerge champions of the tournament. “You know we are the hosts of the tournament so we must show others that we are the best and we deserve to lift the trophy,” he said.

Cities that are expected to participate in the tourney include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kampala, Bujumbura, Kigali, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mbeya, Tanga and Arusha. Last year’s event was held at the Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam and the host emerged victorious in both men and women categories.

FIBA Africa – Cotonou hosts Zone 3 meeting the 9th and 10th January

The FIBA Africa’s zone 3 led by Muktar Khaleh will meet in Cotonou, Benin’s Capital.
The meeting will begin on 9th of January 2009 and end on 10th of January 2009.
This meeting is to meet all zone 3 National Federation Presidents to deliberate on issues concerning the zone. This meeting is also to prepare the zone for the FIBA Africa’s Zonal Presidents and Secretaries General meeting to be held on 24th January 2009 in Cairo, Egypt.

09 January 2009

UGANDA : Okello to link up with Blick at Power

Sande Bashaija
Kampala

MTN-Fuba League men’s First Division top scorer Boniface Okello has expressed desire to play for champions Sadolin Power alongside his former Nkumba Marines teammate Norman Blick.

Okello, the most valuable player in 2006, wants out of two-time champions Marines and is itching to link up with Blick who also intends to join Power. “We have talked about it. We enjoyed playing together at Marines, it would be good reuniting again,” Okello, who top scored despite Marines’ failure to make the post season said.

Blick, who returned from United Kingdom (UK) last December, said he was considering joining Power or mid-table side Miracle Eagles. And Okello revealed they had agreed to join the same team. “I know together we can make a difference in any team we join, be it Power or not. The most important thing is playing together,” Okello added. Power, who defeated Falcons to lift their third championship, have also been linked with Norman’s brother Donald Blick. “Donald will definitely play on the same team with me. I will wait for him to return next month (from UK) and we see what to do,” Norman, the 2001 and 2005 MVP said.

Okello also revealed he wanted the trio to play together. The Blick brothers are now free agents having spent a full season without playing in the local league. This year’s league begins next month.

08 January 2009

UGANDA : Champions Power, Miracle chasing former MVP Blick

Sande Bashaija

Kampala

Two-time MTN-Fuba League Most Valuable Player (MVP) Norman Blick is making a return to local basketball. Blick is set to join either champions Sadolin Power or Miracle Eagles for the season beginning at the end of next month.

“My target is to play in the Africa Zone 5 tournament and Power are to represent Uganda. That’s my biggest motivation. But Miracle are also a good side and have ambition,” Blick told Daily Monitor yesterday.

Blick led Nkumba Marines to back-to-back league championships in 2005 and 2006. After an unsuccessful 2007 season that saw Marines finish fifth, Blick together with his brother Donald Blick, sought a transfer to KCC Leopards, but the move was blocked by Nkumba.
“I got frustrated after the transfer fell through. That’s why I left the country for UK (United Kingdom),” Blick, who returned last month added. “I didn’t want to stay here and watch people playing.” He was MVP in 2001.

TANZANIA : Chui batter PTW in basketball league match

BENEDICT Mkangwa scored the game’s high 18 points to lead Chui to a 53-43 victory over PTW in the Kili RBA basketball league match which was played yesterday at the Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Doto Mihayo added 16 points to completely seal the victory for Chui who were impressive throughout the evening. The game was very tight in the early minutes of the first half, as both teams resorted to defending tactics.

Whenever Chui player could receive a ball, within no second, a PTW player could be behind his back. Players continued tight marking each other but during the course of the game, they got tired and started playing freely.

Ever industrious Mkangwa with his speed caused all sorts of problems in PTW defence as time and again he penetrated it. But still PTW never laid back, they also made torrential of attacks to the eventual winners.

And by first half the game ended 21-17 in favour of Chui who looked deadly with their crisp passes. In the second half, Abel Masunga tried to put PTW back in contention when he scored 10 points, but it was too little to save them from sinking. And up to the final whistle Chui were still in the lead by 53-43.

In another game which was played late in the evening, Savio came from behind to beat TM Rockets 53-38. Victor Bogi scored 11 points and William Okida added eight to help TM Rockets to finish the first half on high 22-21. However, after the break Savio regained their composure and started attacking the hapless TM Rockets.

With the help of George Tarimo and Abdul Mtambo who scored 11 and 10 respectively, Savio took the lead in the second half. Savio continued pampering TM Rockets and in the end their tactics paid off when they emerged victors with 53-38

TANZANIA : Savio outclass Oilers in Kili RBA league

Savio trounced Oilers 57-47 in the Dar es Salaam regional basketball league popularly known as 'Kili RBA' at the National Indoor Stadium in the city over the weekend. George Tarimo scored 24 points as Savio proved too strong for Oilers.
The winners led by 30 points against 24 of Oilers at the breather and showed enormous character to outclass their opponents in the final half. Despite fighting with determination Oilers failed to match their rivals and had to concede a ten-point deficit after full time.
Karim Ezekiel and Lusajo Somali managed 18 and 10 points respectively for defeated Oilers. Vijana ‘City Bulls’ are the men’s reigning champions of Kili RBA league and JKT Stars are the tournament’s ladies’ defending champions. The Dar es Salaam regional basketball league which kicked off on December 20 will reach its climax in March. The league involves 14 men teams and six women teams.

07 January 2009

TANZANIA : Vijana sustain winning momentum in RBA

By Suleiman Jongo

Former East and Central Africa champions, Vijana (City Bulls) sustained their winning momentum in the on-going RBA Kili League with a 61-55 win over Chui last weekend.
The match, which was held at the National Indoor Stadium saw Vijana, who are also the league's reigning champions, dominating most parts of the first half.
It was their second win in the league --having beaten PTW Stars 51-49 in the opening round.
Meanwhile, former champions Savio revived their hopes of winning the title after walloping Oilers 57-47 in a see-saw match held at the same venue on Sunday.

In the women's category, JKT Stars outsmarted Cargo Ladies 59-34.
The league has been organized by the Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) and sponsored by the Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) through their Kilimanjaro beer.

The money-spinning league, which is played every weekend, has risen in popularity within the country and the East and Central African region.

ZIMBABWE : National team 2009

Innocent Sithole of Medusa South Central
Tichafara Mabhiza of Kingdom Cavaliers
Tapiwa of Kingdom Cavaliers Mugunyanya of JBC
Sam Pararai of Kingdom Cavaliers
Erinos Katsaruware of Highdon Raiderz
Duncan Shenje of Highdon Raiderz
Gideon Chikopa of Varsity Leopards
Tafirenyika Soko of Kingdom Cavaliers
Taurai Chitsinde of Sigauke
amilton Mudawarima of Varsity Leopards
Young Guzha of Kingdom Cavaliers
Eric Banda of Kango Giants
Tinashe Muchenje of Varsity Leopards
Artwell Dzikiti of JBC
Simba Mungomezi of Kingdom Cavaliers
Norest Shenje of Highdon Raiderz

06 January 2009

2008 Clubs Champions (by country)

2008 AFRICAIN CHAMPIONS CLUBS WOMEN

ALGERIA - ASPTT Alger
ANGOLA – 1º Agosto Luanda
BENIN – ASO Modele de Porto Novo
BOTSWANA -
BURKINA FASO – ASFA-Y
BURUNDI -
CAMEROON – BEAC
CAP VERDE –
CONGO (Brazaville) – Diables Noires
IVORY COAST – ABC
EGYPT –
GABON –
GAMBIA - Wallidan
GHANA -
GUINE CONAKRY – ASK(Association Sportive Kaloum)
LESOTHO -
LIBERIA –
LYBIA –
MAURITIUS ISL.- Curepipe Starlight Sp. Ci.
MADAGASCAR – Sotrata Antsirabe
MALI – DJOLIBA
MOZAMBIQUE – Ferroviario Maputo
MOROCCO – FAR
MAURITANIA –
MAYOTTE – BCM Mahor
NAMIBIA –
NIGER – As Bia
NIGERIA – First Bank Nigeria
KENYA – KPA
RCA –
RD Congo – RADI de Lubumbashi
REUNION – Basket Club Dionisien BCD
RWANDA – APR
SEYCHELLES – Hotshots
SENEGAL – SLBC
SOUTH AFRICA -
TANZANIA – JESHI Stars
TCHAD -
TOGO – Etoile Filante
TUNISIA – Escap Bon
UGANDA – Lady Canons
ZAMBIA –
ZIMBABWE – JBC

PS. If anybody can help us to complete this list, please tell us. Thanks

05 January 2009

TANZANIA : Vijana maintain unbeaten record

By Joseph Mchekadona

Vijana maintained their unbeaten record when they defeated PTW 51-49 in a Kili RBA League played at Dar es Salaam`s Indoor Stadium over the weekend.

They led 29-20 until the breather with Saudi Abdularzack and Slvian Maige scoring for them 24 and six points, respectively.
Hosea Baraigwa scored 24 points to emerge the top scorer for the losers.
Vijana also beat Chui 61- 55 in their yesterday`s game played on the same ground. Vijana were down 33-30 in the half time.
UDSM Outsiders overcome hard-fighters Mgulani with 42-27 win in another match.
Outsiders were ahead 18 -14 until the break. John Tungaraza scored 12 points to emerge top scorer for the Outsiders while Lucas Nyambasamba scored the same points for Mgulani.
Crowns were beaten by Pazi 55-63 in another game.
Ally Zuberi and Alfaya Kiswi scored 26 and 10 points respectively for Crowns as Ladis Kugula and Adrew Kungula scored 19 points each for Pazi.

In women`s match, Cargo Ladies beat Prisons 72-63. Zakia Kondo scored 23 and Asha Iddi 21 for Cargo.
Zuhura Twalib and Nuru Ahmed scored 17 and nine points for Prisons, respectively.

MOROCCO : Day 9 Results

IRT Tangier - ASE Essaouira : 73-60
As it was expected, the reigning champion trashed ASE in Tangier finishing 2008 on top of D1 with perfect 8-0. Papis shined for the winners with 25 points and 9 rebounds.

IRAN Nador - FUS Rabat : 63-62
IRAN celebrated against FUS in very exciting game jumping on 5-9 record. This is the third close score loss for coach Uariachi who congratulated the opponent and complained about referees decisions and mistakes at the end of the game.

MAS Fes - RCA Casablanca : 85-72
MAS registered comfortable 13 points vs RCA confirming new coach Ouahidi's nice job with his players. International player Bassim Houari stepped up for MAS with 22 points and 13 boards.

ASS Sale - CMC Casablanca : 85-67
ASS outsmarted CMC on the road securing the second place in the league. Zouita drained 19 points, while Zakaria Mesbahi stepped up with 16 points and 6 rebounds. CMC players still did not find their rhythm this season becoming a serious candidate for the relegation.

WAC Casablanca - KAC Kenitra : 59-50
Extremely important home win for WAC who showed some sign of improvement in their team spirit. KAC finished this first part of D1 in 6th place while WAC is in the 9th trouble position.

EGYPT : 9th round:Gezira on top with Zamalek ..Itthad comes third after beating Ahly

After the 9th round of the Egyptian league Gezira still on the top with a sole defeat and 8 wins after beating Smouha and sporting in the last week , Itthad came third with 7 wins and 2 deafeats after winning its last game at alexandria against Ahly 77-70

Over all team position after adding to U16 results:

1. Al Ittihad 60
2. Sporting 55
3. Ahly 54
4. Gezira 54
5. Somouha 51
6. Zamalek 50
7. Shorta-Police 45
8. Geish Army 43
9. Shams 40
10. Shark ins. 36
11. Al Olympi 36
12. Gasco 34

from africabasket.com

03 January 2009

TANZANIA : City Bulls in RBA League action today

By Suleiman Jongo

After registering their first win against Hoop Life last weekend, former East and Central Africa champions, Vijana (City Bulls), will today be looking for more points as they take on PT Stars in the Dar es Salaam Regional Basketball (RBA) Kili league.

However, Vijana who are the RBA reigning champions, should not expect an easy ride as little known PT Stars will also be looking for their first victory in a match to be held at the National Indoor Stadium in the city.
Vijana's traditional rivals, Pazi will today face newly promoted, Crows. Pazi, who are one of the oldest clubs, had a bad start after losing two opening ties at the hands of the Tanzania Prisons and the Army Basketball Club (ABC).
They will today have a big task to keep their campaign firmly on track.
One of today�s attention-drawing matches will be between ABC and JKT.
ABC , who are inspired by experienced players such as a three-point wizard Haleluya Kavalambi, will probably play desperately to maintain their winning spree.
The same situation will also apply to their opponents, JKT, who bagged three points from their last week's 80-38 victory against Mgulani.
JKT, who eluded the championship last year, are boast experienced and gifted players like a towering Franklin Simkoko in their ranks.

Another match of the day will see the Tanzania Prisons Queens battling it out against Cargo Ladies in a women's match, billed to be tough and exciting.
Mgulani will also face the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Outsiders. The lucrative league has been organised by Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) and sponsored by the Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) through their Kilimanjaro beer.

GHANA : 2009 " A brighter Year for Ghana Basketball Association".

by Isaac kwapong)
2008 came with the same challenges for the Ghana Basketball Association (GBBA) as every year but 2009 looks to be better than previous years. Now that 2008 is over and 2009 has begun the GBBA looks to get itself on a good start inorder to have a better ending. This year will be full of basketball activities right from January 2009 to December 2009. This year the GBBA will be doing its best to get involved in most of the basketball activities through out the nation from school basketball to club basketball. GBBA will also be looking at a better organisation of its administration, management as well as its national teams. GBBA in 2009 has set out to influence basketball activities positively when they are not on the organising side, by running clinics for referees, coaches and teams before and after competitions and also this year the GBBA will be taking up the task of starting its database of players,coaches, referees and competitions through out the Ghana. Statistics from school competitions, club competitions as well national game competitions is on the to do list of the GBBA hence getting more technical information on competitions for a better administration and management as well as providing more information to followers of Ghana basketball both locally and international. Followers of Ghana Basketball should look out for the Ghana Basketball Association official website this year as well as some monthly newsletters. All who will wish to help or support the Ghana Basketball Association in anyway can contact me on dather20@hotmail.com and i will be glad to assist in your course to helping our beloved National Federation 'GBBA. I will also like to take this opportunity to wish all basketball editors of Eurobasket a HAPPY NEW YEAR.

from africabasket.com

01 January 2009

EGYPT : Round 8, Ahly beats Zamalek & Gezira Crushes Itthad

by Sherif Soliman from africabasket.com
Round 8 games held last night with no surprises, Ahly 65- 55 Zamalek,this would be the first loss to Zamalek and a very important win to Ahly after loosing 2 games,The fans of Zamalek started violence when they destroid the chairs of Faisal Hall,The refrees had to cansel the game before 5 min to the end.
Gezira 104-83 Itthad, Itthad players were very tired last night and didnt show any ressitance, while Gezira players were very fast and organised controling the game from the start to the end.Gezira jumped after this win to the top of the standings sharing Zamalek the top with one defeat.
Jeish 75- 72 Somouha, Jeish players are prooving every game that they are willing to do something this season and getting close to be in the finals this season,while Somouha is performing very bad and still suffers from loosing Tamer & Tamer the tow Guards who singed for Jiesh this season.
Other Results: Sporting 101-62 Shams ,Gassco 90- 84 Olympi, Shorta 91- 79 Shark ins.

EGYPT : John III Thomas singnes for Itthad

After the unexpected performance for Itthad in Dubai it seems that Amr Abo El khair Itthad head coach didnt like the bad atitute form Derrik Franklin who had some problems with his team mates in Dubai, Amr Abo El Khier with his long experiense in Dubai didnt waste any time and wanted to get some advantages from being in Dubai the open players market, He succeded to sigen John III Thomas who was partispating in Dubai Tournament with Al Riaydy (LeB),J ohn was playing for Zien and won the Asian title with them, Also he played in Europe in Poland,England,Germany and Finland.Jhon showed up last night and played against Gezira and helped his team mates in scoring and made a lot of assists.

from africabasket.com

This page is powered by Blogger. Isn't yours?