Basketball in Africa

Today at YMCA
Ndejje v Warriors (7.30pm)
Women
Crane v UCU (5.30pm)

To many, Kyambogo Warriors have done the hard part in making certain of their place in the MTN-Fuba League play-offs. The champions’ 79-70 victory over DMark Power was loathed by Miracle Eagles but relived numerous nerves within Warriors.

Much as attention is now firmly fixed on that decisive clash with Eagles on Sunday, Warriors have business to take care of in Ndejje University Angels this evening at YMCA court, Wandegeya this evening.

It could be an unwelcome distraction that coach Gad Eteu could do without as he need not get any of his stars injured. Steven Okias, coming off a blazing 24-point display last Friday, could be rested after limping off with a chronic knee problem. “Our current situation demands lots of desire which we showed (in beating Power) and we need to maintain for the rest of the season,” Eteu said.

The championship-winning coach will require more responsibility from experienced guard Abdullahi Ramadhan and forward Martin Okwako for different reasons. The Tanzanian easily fouled out on Friday whereas the latter, a Kenyan, has been struggling for points.

Having almost secured their place in next season’s league, Ndejje’s relegation troubles are no longer a worry though their coach Walker Obedi cherishes an unlikely upset. “My plans for the year were disrupted by so many things. Most of our problems were sorted and we had a decent second round,” Obedi, whose ultimate target is a post-season slot in the next three years, explained.

In the women’s division, UCU Lady Canons will continue their charge towards finishing as regular season champions against lethargic Crane High School.