Basketball in Africa

The Nigerian PBL playoffs dunk-off on June 20 through the buzzer on June 27. Eight clubs are already waiting to sweat it out for the title with defending champion Kano Pillars basketball club.

Kano Pillars leading the challenge from the Savannah conference and the only team that did not drop any game all through the regular season of the 2010/2011 campaign. Other teams in the race for the diadem include Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna, Yelwa Hawks and Bauchi Nets basketball clubs of Bauchi, Union Bank basketball club of Lagos, Royal Hoopers basketball club of Port Harcourt, Comets, and Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos.

The eight teams will be divided into two groups.

By USHER KOMUGISHA

Men, Division 1
Miracle 76 KIU 71
Division 2
UCU JV 81 St. Michael 55
Stormers 53 V’tarians 64
Division 3
Sharing 63 K’la Varsity 73
Emperors 49 Ssaku 61
Women
MUK Sparks 63 Nabisunsa 53

WHETHER Stephen Omony and Norman Blick would blend in on the same team and put their egos aside was a discussion topic a month ago.
But right now the indispensable duo will do anything to orchestrate Miracle Eagles debut journey to the playoffs.
Omony’s almost triple double of 19 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds and Blick’s 12 points instigated victory for the Eagles past the unlucky KIU Titans at the at YMCA on Sunday.
Just like Blick said after the game, God was on the Eagles’ side. His foul on Joshua Etalu when the sides were tied at 64-64 failed to yield victory for the Titans when Etalu missed both throws forcing overtime that Eagles dominated to eventually win 76-71.

In the second division, UCU JV maintained an unbeaten streak with a 81-55 win over St. Michael, while in the women Makerere Sparks beat Nabisunsa 63-53.

NAIROBI (Premier League) - Defending champions Co-operative Bank of Kenya beat Thunder 77-71 in a top premier league clash at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.

The bankers, who remain unbeaten trailed 31-34 at the break but did well to recover the deficit at the end of full time. Stylish guard Titus Musembi scored 18 points while veteran national team star Peter Kiganya bagged 17. Thunder's game high came from national team guard Griifin Ligare.
KCB Lions collected four points in two days, posting wins over United States International University and Mennonites.
In the women's league, Eagle Wings recovered from a defeat to Strathmore (44-48) by crushing Predators 94-25.
Strathmore University made it two from two as they pipped Co-operative Bank of Kenya 53-51 in over time following a 47-47 stalemate.
The deadlock was set by a last gasp buzzer beating jumper by Grace Wanjiku with the bankers ahead by a basket.

Dann O. Werre
FIBA

Results
M: Marines 68-59 Ndejje
W: KIU 41-42 UCU
Today at YMCA
M: KIU v Miracle (7.30pm)
W: Nabisunsa v Mak Sparks (5.30pm)
Division Two
UCU JV v St. Michael (3.30pm)
Stormers v Vegetarian (1.30pm)
Division Three
Sharing v K’la Univ. (11.30am)
Emperors v Ssaku (9.30am)

A less than impressive Friday night crowd at YMCA court was treated to a feast of MTN-Fuba League entertainment that will make those who stayed away envious.

Lorraine Akinyi blocked Sylvia Nassuna in the dying moments as UCU Lady Canons edged KIU Rangers 42-41 to further light up a thrilling women’s game.

That was a tasty starter for see-saw contest in which many sided with two-time champions Nkumba Marines and they didn’t disappoint by defeating Ndejje University Angels 68-59.
It was Marines’ first victory to end a two-game skid delivered by ironclad defence – nearly shutting out Ndejje in the paint.
“Even if our first two games were poor due to poor execution on the offensive end, our practice has focused on defence,” Timothy Odeke, the Marines coach, said.
Wilson Otweyo scored a game-high 13 points and eight rebounds as both teams struggled to create plays committing a combined 33 turnovers.
Marines kept their noses ahead taking the first and final periods 20-14 and 25-16 respectively to bury mid-game wobbles.
Ndejje coach Walker Obedi disappeared in thin air following his team’s first defeat. Cyrus Kiviri and Crispin Biko epitomized their poor night with a team-high 10 points apiece. Earlier, Suzan Amito (13) and Mercy Etyang (10) were only women to reach double but ended up on the losing side in a close game against the champions.

Meanwhile, Miracle Eagles face plucky KIU Titans today in a Division One clash.

THE provisional list of players for the 10th All Africa Games slated for Maputo, Mozambique will be released next week, coach Philip Onyango disclosed yesterday.

A total of 30 players including four school girls and eight players from the diaspora have been identified and their names will be made public next Friday.

Onyango, who talked to the Star from Mombasa, said all the players will have to prove their worth during training before gaining a place in the final national team. "We have already identified the players both here and abroad. We will give the list to Kenya Basketball Federation who will then make an official announcement next week," said Onyango, adding that "Only players who merit selection will be named in the final roster."

Onyango defended his appointment, saying he's a trained coach who has groomed many players and some of them are currently in USA. " I have what it takes to guide this team to success," he said. "I am trained as coach by Fiba Africa instructor. I have also handled the Kenya Ports Authority team and I have all the credentials of a coach," he said. Onyango's appointment alongside Cliff Owuor to handle the national team to the All Africa Games was recently criticised by Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) chairman Ronny Owino.

During the last Pan Africa Games in Algiers, Algeria in 2007, Kenya were placed fifth among 12 teams. Onyango said the three players who played a key role in Algiers event were in fact his products. "Josephine Owino, Rose Ouma and Gladys Wanyama played a sterling role in the team's success in the last All Africa Games. Let everybody know that the trio were at one time my players," he said.

Meanwhile, Kenya Airways whipped Aquinas High School 115-29 in a Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league match at Railways Club.
Eric Odhiambo made 20 and Victor Omondi added 13 for "KQ" who remain unbeaten. Alvin Odopo shot 15 for the students. They also posted another easy 80-38 win over Heroes with John Otieno topping the chart with 18. Strathmore University pipped KU Pirates 60-54, behind 14 points from Michael Ligare but KU's Gilbert Obiero managed 15. Upper Hill clobbered Friends of Basketball (FoB) 70-37. Collins Ochieng bagged 20 while Peter Majok scored 16 for "Upper. Ochieng recorded 24 and Majok 16 in another 71-64 victory over Don Bosco.

KU went on to hit Legacy 49-37 on Collins Wekesa's 11 points. Daniel Odhiambo pepped the losers with 13. Ray Nyatome shot 25 points to guide Multi Media University clobbered Neosasa Morans 62-46. Odhiambo bagged 20 for Morans. Old Pirates had 12 points from Reagan Basweti in a 55-41 win over Neosasa Morans who had 20 from Kennedy Odhiambo.

THIRTEEN teams are lined up for the Coast basketball league scheduled for this weekend at the Mombasa Baptist High School.

The tournament according to the Coast Basketball Association (CBA), has attracted teams from local public universities.

Speaking in Mombasa yesterday, CBA chairman Ali Hilmy said local clubs and Mombasa-based universities were among those enlisted for the event. Hilmy, who was flanked by CBA secretary, Jimnah Kimani, said the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University are among the institutions of higher learning expected to take part. "The league has elicited an overwhelming response with teams representing public universities confirming their participation," he said. Other clubs expected are Makupa Lakers, Makande Rebels, Kiembeni Heats, Changamwe Rollers, Coastal Kings and Oceaners. A number of secondary school teams including hosts Mombasa Baptist and Changamwe High schools will also battle it out for the top honours.

Aboubakar Usman 192-G-86 Kano Pillars
Ibrahim Yusuf 196-G-89 Kano Pillars
Mathew Ogenyi 86 Kano Pillars
Onyeka Okeke 203-F-87 Kano Pillars
Yusuf Abubakar 196-F-88 Kada Stars
Abdulwahab Yahaya 203-F-93 Kada Stars
Abel Baraya 205-F-88 Plateau Peaks
Michael Ohiero 191-G-88 Royal Hoopers
Musa Usman 191-G-91 Royal Hoopers
Dike Azuoma 188-G-89 Royal Hoopers
Mohamed Bukar 191-G-90 D.Warriors
Orseer Ikyaator 191-G-89 Comets
Onyeka Ekpete 203-F-82 Union Bank
Stanley Gumut 197-F-86 Kano Pillars
Edem Ekpenyong 195-F-83 Union Bank
Boniface Synasius

Sanni Ahmed Head Coach Kano Pillars
Adeka Daudu Assistant D.Warriors

By Usher Komugisha

Today at YMCA
Men, Division 1
D-Mark v Heaters
Division 2
Rez Life v Diamonds
MBC Rocks v Kings
Division 3
Air Force v Blue Jackets
Women
Gladiators v KCC Leopards
Division 3
Sky Jammers v Bushcourt
Crane High v Livingstone
M.Shooters v City Oil

CHAMPIONS D-Mark Power return to the basketball league against Heaters today in a game of contrasting fortunes.
Power, spurred by experienced players including last season’s MVP Ben Komakech and Isaac Afidra, are eyeing a third straight win against a team struggling to do so.
The champions are favourites to carry the day against a side that has lost it’s first two games.
The two clubs have enjoyed a close relationship in the last three years but this will count for nothing with each side chasing victory.
During that period, Heaters, who were in the second division, served as a feeder side for Power.
This ended with Heaters’ promotion to the top flight.
Heaters will again look to Charles Babumba, Moses Okwera and Derrick Mbusi for inspiration in what promises to be another key test.
But Power’s coach Barnes Ankunda said the friendship will be maintained but victory will go to his team. KCC face the Gladiators in the women’s top game.

Today at YMCA
M: Power v Heaters (7.30pm)
W: Gladiators v KCC (5.30pm)
Stormers v M.Cubs (11.30am)
Division Two
Rez Life v Diamonds (3.30pm)
MBC v Kings (1.30pm)
Shooters v City Oil (10am)
Division Three
Air Force v Jackets (9am)
MUBS/MUK – Division Three
Sky Jammers v Bush Court (2pm)
Crane High v Stone (12pm)

Just when Heaters might have thought about turning the corner in the MTN-Fuba League Division One, a clash with champions DMark Power at YMCA court today may not be ideal. Being the only team yet to win a game in the division, Heaters could be in for their tallest mountain climb yet.

In losing to Ndejje University Angels, Miracle Eagles and Kyambogo Warriors, coach Brian Wathum – former assistant at Power – has barely looked competitive. On the flipside, they show lots of exuberance often calling one another by names of American NBA stars like Boston Celtics’ Rajon Rondo and LA Lakers’ centre Andrew Bynum.

The biggest culprits of this being Derrick Olama and Dickson Asiko. This should be part of the belief that got them promoted from Division Two last year behind Charging Rhinos. For Power, Joseph Ikong, last season’s top scorer, will appear in his first game this term following a lengthy trip away with family.

Coach Bernice Ankunda had planned to give his reserves valuable time last week but this was scampered by the fight Rhinos’ put up before losing 77-75. This should be another chance for guard Emmanuel Enabu to help MVP Ben Komakech get a breather.

In a bid to better it 5th placement at the 25th edition of the African Cup of Nations known as Afrobasket for Men, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has mapped out a 3-day preparatory exercise for the nations senior national team, DTigers with mixture of home-based players and few others who ply their trade in the Middle East and other part of the continent.

The camp which will be conducted by the two coaches who qualified Nigeria for the continent biggest basketball showpiece, Coaches Sani Ahmed and Adeka Daudu has sixteen players.

The players comprises reigning DStv Premier Basketball League most valuable player, Abubakar Usman (point guard) of Kano Pillars basketball club also includes Ibrahim Yusuf (off-guard/small forward), Mathew Omonya small forward) and Onyeka Okeke (centre) from the Pillars, Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna has Abubakar Yusuf (small forward) and Abdulwahab Yahaya (power forward) while Abel Baraya (small forward) was called up from relegated side, Plateau Peaks basketball club of Jos.

Royal Hoopers basketball club of Port Harcourt has three players they include, point guard Michael Ohiero, small forward Musa Usman off-guard and Azuoma Dike; Mohammed Bukar (off-guard) made the list from Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos; Orseer Ikyaator (point guard) from Comets basketball club of Lagos and Onyeka Ekpete (power forward) of Union Bank basketball club of Lagos.

The three included players who play professional basketball in the Middle East and other parts of Africa are Stanley Gumut (Libya); Edem Ekpeyong (Kuwait) and Boniface Synasius (Bahrain).

The players are to have two practice session daily between June 2 and 4 at the sports hall of the Abuja national stadium.

Written by Felix Eupal

Inspired by critics, Walker Obedi has guided his Ndejje Angels team to a great start to the season thus far by winning two out of two.

It is, however, last Sunday’s triumph over UCU Canons that got many people sitting up and taking notice. The win over UCU was one over adversity, and it promptly mirrored Ndejje’s chronicle. Two years ago when they were elevated to topflight, no-one gave Ndejje a chance.

Obedi, though, was sure that they could punch above their weight. They did exactly this by finishing a respectable sixth in both the 2009 and 2010 seasons. They now want to go one better by making the playoffs.
Ndejje’s run in this year’s All Africa University Games in Nairobi showed that they are growing in leaps and bounds. They were only stopped at the quarterfinal stage by Nkumba Marines after missing a record 31 free throw shots on the line. Obedi knew that there was work to be done, and he showed that he had conjured up something good at the drawing board when he led Ndejje to the Makerere Open 2011 edition title.

That triumph gave Ndejje the belief which Obedi says was the biggest missing aspect in their squad. The same belief carried Ndejje to second position at the 2011 UCU Open invitational tournament.
Not convinced with their runner up position at the UCU invitational, Ndejje management stepped up their game by following the lead of defending champions, Dmark Power.
Power use YMCA as their training ground, and this has bolstered the team. Ndejje also uses the same ground which hosts the league games. They paid the YMCA management, which has enabled them train at the Wandegeya court four times a week.
“The players know which spots to take the big shots from,” says Obedi.

This Friday they come up against a winless Marines side, and Obedi says, “This season I said to myself that every game that I’m sure of winning I will be in a suit. I was in a suit against the Canons and I will definitely suit up for Marines”.

By Johnson Were

Wednesday results
Amazon 66 Cubs 29
Rhinos 74 Miracle 85
Today
KIU v Lady Canons Marines v Ndejje

CHARGING Rhinos put up a good challenge against Miracle Eagles in the FUBA basketball league on Wednesday taking the second quarter 37-32 but failed to maintain the rhythm in the third and fourth quarter losing 85-74 at YMCA Wandegeya on Wednesday night.
Mark Opio scored a game high 21 and Joseph Odyek added 13 points but was not enough to give Rhinos victory against the more experienced Miracle.
The Eagles, led by coach player Steven Omony and Brian Ssentongo, trailed in the first two quarters but put up a spirited fight to win the pulsating game 85-74.
Omony scored 18 points while Ssentongo had 21 with last season’s MVP Norman Blick having a disastrous day with only seven points to his credit.
Rhinos coach Frank Ochieng attributed the defeat to lack of fitness and inexperience.
“We played a better game but it was inexperience and fitness that let us down. We reached a time when we could not contest rebounds and our defence was exhausted, but we are going to work on that,” Ochieng stated.

Meanwhile Nkumba Marines take on student rivals Ndejje, a team that beat UCU Canons in their league opener.

KIU Rangers will entertain UCU Lady Canons at 6:30 before the men's fixture at 8:30pm.

ABUJA (2011 Afrobasket Women) - The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has jump-started the preparations of its Women's National Team, D’Tigress ahead of the 2011 Afrobasket by calling up fourteen home-based players.
The team will have a two-days drills in Abuja with Coach Ayo Bakare leading the technical crew and Patrick Omo-Osagie and former Nigeria senior national team captain and forward, Mfon Udoka as assistances.
The players were mainly selected from the three top clubs participating in the Zenith Bank Women Basketball League, with First Bank of Lagos accounting for eight out of the fourteen selected playeers.
Defending champions First Deepwtaer has had four of its players called up, while Sunshine Angels basketball club has two.

Called up from First Bank BC: Grace Okonkwo (centre), Oluchi Nzekwe (guard), White Patience (guard), Vera Ellong (guard), Magdalene (guard), Nike Dawodu (forward), Sandra German (guard) and ImaObong Akpan (guard)
From First Deepwater BC: Atosu Upe (guard), Kelechi Obasi (forward), Nkeci Akashili (guard), Blessing Emmanuel (guard)
Sunshine Angels: Rebecca Iritei (guard) and Korede Sosanya (forward)

Nigeria won golds medals at Afrobasket 2003 in Mozambique and 2005 in Nigeria as well as at the 8th All Africa Games, also in Nigeria (2003).

Head Coach, Bakare said that he intends the team to return the country to winning ways and restablish its authority within African basketball and the world in general.

By: Olusegun Ikuesan
FIBA

By Ostine Arinaitwe

GREEN Hills Academy displayed their muscle in the Gasabo post primary schools basketball competitions after winning the senior boys’ and girls’ titles.

The Nyarutarama based school defeated IFAK (Institute De Formation Apostolique De Kimihurura) 53-52 in the boys’ category, while last year’s champions Fawe Girls School suffered a 19-27 defeat.

The captain of the boys’ team Eder Munyampenda attributes the triumph to hard work.
“We put in a lot of effort because we had never won this competition. The training was intensive but our desire to triumph was the difference,” the 16-year-old said.
Rivera won the boys’ crown last year.

Green Hills will now represent Gasabo District in the national post primary basketball competition.

Today at YMCA
M: Rhinos v Miracle (8.30pm)
W: Amazon v M. Cubs (6.30pm)

Charging Rhinos have repeatedly spoken of their desire to stay in the MTN-Fuba League Division One.
The former champions are matching this ambition so far with one victory and a glorified 77-75 loss to DMark Power. Today at YMCA, Rhinos seek another huge scalp in Miracle Eagles after putting the champions’ backs on the wall before succumbing last week.

It’s important that the wildly cheered Rhinos maintain the spirit. Of course, shooting guard Mark Opio is expected to carry most of the yoke which he has done very well with 39 points in two games. However, the support of Walter Omony, who had 20 points against Power, is the key even if they have found another fall back in Abel Omongin.

The latter, a guard, was brilliant in handling the ball but they will need more of his temperament with Miracle chasing a maiden post season slot. This ambition came with signing forward Norman Blick from Power to link up with shooting guard Stephen Omony.

Right mentality
“Our team is a work in progress. At this point, we need to work on the mentality,” Omony, a coach-player for now, said. They played well in losing to Power (91-96) then laboured past Heaters (69-45) showing a lack of consistency. Ex-Falcon Francis Tumusiime is expected to get some minutes after lengthy troubles with ankle and knee injuries.

MOGOMOTSI BUZWANI
Correspondent Mmegi 20/5/2011

FRANCISTOWN: Defending basketball league champions, Troopers, have made a blistering start to the season by winning its first three matches.Troopers look set to retain the title after accounting for old enemy, BDF V 61-31 and new boys, Dolphins 82-58 and NIIT 110-57. The holders have maximum points after they got a bye because Eagles failed to turn up for their game.

Francistown-based Flames have shown improvement this season losing only once in four games. The loss came in the derby against Splinters. Flames are second in the standings with seven points. Eagles and Bullets are struggling at the bottom with one point each. It will be a busy weekend for most clubs as a full programme is underway.

Troopers face Spartans tonight before Dolphins meet Cadets at the UB Courts. Tomorrow, Splinters lock horns with the struggling Eagles in Selebi-Phikwe as Falcons face Bullets before playing Eagles. Meanwhile, at the University of Botswana, NIIT face army giants, BDF V in the women's league. Spartans meet Drillers while Police take on BDF in the evening.

Botswana Basketball Association (BBA) chairperson Kabo Khama said the league has started well although some games were postponed due to bad weather and poor light. 'We hope to have fewer of those weatherrelated disruptions going forward since it is winter.

'Recently, we had minor issues with lighting at the UB Courts but UB administration has attended to the problem,' he said. Khama is happy with the performance of the three clubs registered at the beginning of the season.

'In terms of new clubs, I think they have done reasonably well with Dolphins getting a couple of wins. 'But as the season progresses, the log table has taken a familiar look with Troopers sitting pretty at the top. It looks like this might be the year Flames finally break into the top four. On the other end of the scale, Cadet has started rather slowly,' Khama said.

Panthers are looking good in the women's section but once again, the 'usual suspects', Police and BDF, seem to have an edge. Relics are struggling but they are rebuilding after losing a few of their players to Panthers. Splinters women are in for a tough season looking at their last game, which they lost.

Two wins in as many MTN-Fuba League games should send Kyambogo Warriors into bliss. Somehow, coach Mandy Juruni wants the next game to come quickly just to keep the momentum. But the fixtures don’t allow it.

After pounding newly-promoted Heaters 81-39 on Saturday night at YMCA court, last year’s losing finalists have a lengthy hiatus until the date against champions DMark Power on June 3.
“When the team is winning, everyone wants to play and keep it going. Unfortunately, we won’t get that,” Juruni said.
Their next opponents are slightly better placed as they play Heaters in five days time having last played mid-last week.
However, Juruni will have no complaints about the start Eric Malinga has had to the season.
The forward followed up his 23 points in the 87-67 rout of UCU Canons by dropping another 18 and five rebounds against Heaters.
“My plan is to conduct high intensity practice so that players don’t relax,” the coach added.
His team broke no sweat in sweeping all four periods 18-10, 15-6, 21-15 and 27-8 respectively with Heaters still looking like a team in a rush to return to the lower echelons.

Results - Fuba League
M: Falcons 60-63 KIU
W: Sparks 61-65 Stormers
Today at YMCA
M: Ndejje v UCU (7.30pm)
W: KCC v Nabisunsa (5.30pm)
Division Two
Vegetarian v UCU JV (3.30pm)
Diamonds v Gulu (9.30am)
Division Three
Stone v Shooters (1.30pm)
Crane v City Oil (11.30am)

On a wrenched shooting night, KIU Titans got their MTN-Fuba league season rolling with a deserved 63-60 victory over Falcons on Friday.

The record champions never recovered from an insipid start that found them 10 points behind (10-21) by the end of the first quarter.
Ex-Warriors forward Joshua Etalu left so much wreckage in his way scoring a game-high 16 points and 12 rebounds.
Even with this, it was defence that lifted KIU as they restricted Falcons to fruitless outside shooting, managing only four of 26 from downtown.
Good support
Etalu got support from guards Abraham Juma (12) and Collins Onyango (13) whereas Falcons’ night was embedded in star forward Richard Osano Omondi.
Clearly struggling with a wrist injury sustained last week, he made 19 attempts from the field and three from the free throw line for his laboured 14 points and picked seven boards. Coming off a loss against UCU Canons, KIU coach Nimrod Kaboha dished no favours in holding on when Falcons took two of the final three periods 13-11, 21-14 and 16-17 respectively.

Earlier, Magic Stormers beat Makerere Sparks 65-61 in a thrilling women’s game. Rukia Meme led the onslaught with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
In today’s highlight, Ndejje University Angels face a UCU side desperate to brush off the 87-67 mauling by Kyambogo Warriors.

By USHER KOMUGISHA

TODAY: YMCA
FUBA LEAGUE
DIVISION 1: MEN
Heaters v Warriors
DIVISION 2
St. Michael v Gulu
K. Riders v S'mers
DIVISION 3
Bushcourt v UPDF
TLC v Jackets

WOMEN
C. High v A-1
Ssaku v Air Force
B. Planet v Kla U'sity
Sharing v E'erors

KYAMBOGO Warriors will be looking at maintaining their good start to the new basketball season whose action is back today.
Warriors face the Heaters, buoyed by the 87-67 victory against fellow title contenders UCU Canons last Friday.
Mande Juruni, the Warriors coach, stressed the need to maintain their brilliant start ahead of the long season.
“We want to maintain the good start because with a bad beginning, you may fail to recover,” a confident Juruni said after a training session.
Warriors are favourites against the less experienced Heaters.
The Heaters have lost their previous games against Ndejje and Miracle in the event.

With 13 and 28 points respectively ,Toungui BB and Somo BB dominate groups A and B of the Gabonese national elite basketball championship.

Below is a general classification in both groups ;

Group A
1st, Toungui BB: 13 points
2nd, Manga BB: 11 points
3rd, Engong BB: 6 points

NB: Two teams CAS 1987 and Olympique Mandji declared fofeiture in this group

Group B
1st, Somo BB: 28 points
2nd, Stade Mandji: 24 points
3rd, Espoir BC: 22 points
4th, BABB: 20 points
5th, IZO BB: 17 points

By Phillips Tayo



Newly-appointed D’Tigress coach, Olumide Bakare highlighted the significances of the new programmes saying it will be a great departure from the past experience in terms of coaching organization and coordination.

While speaking in an exclusive interview with Sports Day, coach Bakare affirmed the new sense of commitment, the basketball federation with the newly constituted technical crew intended to reshape the future of the team

“The programme has being packaged with clear-cut objectives and long and short term goals. Also, relevant stakeholders such as the media can monitor the activities of the squad in their build-up sessions. Basic features inherent include various female basketballers’ profile, tournaments, friendlies and a live chatroom where correspondence on the activities of the team will be entertained. The target is to win the All-Africa games prize while striving to win two matches during the Olympics next year”

However, Coach Bakare downplays huge expectations but remain positive the female national team can reclaim its leading place within African basketball circuit

“The current crew is poised to effect visible changes. That is why we want the media to talk to us. We are working in consonance with our stated goals. As at now, we have contact many foreign based players who have given us their words of commitment. Few friendlies have been lined and some are in the pipeline. We are putting together home-based female players hopefully the women league will create an avenue to scout for fresh bloods. It is a serious task to make D’Tigress a dominant force within African basketball circuit. We can be able to contend with Angola on a large scale.”

Played on Wednesday
Power 77 Charging Rhino 75
Lady Bucks 62 Amazon Rhino 51
Today at YMCA
Men: Falcons v KIU
Women: MUK Sparks v Magic Stormers

IF money can buy trophies then the Falcons will routinely have a title at the end of this basketball season considering their recent engagement with Crown Beverages to a tune of sh160m, writes Usher Komugisha.
With new additions to the team this evening, Falcons will be looking to contend in this year’s playoffs depending on their performance in the regular season. But so far they are not convincing, just like the other ‘big’ four (Power, Warriors, UCU and Miracle).

Falcons struggled against Nkumba Marines five days ago forcing a 62-50 win but against the KIU Titans, they have to be wary of the athletic Sudanese, Abraham Juma who tormented UCU Canons last week.

ABUJA (2011 FIBA U19 World Championship for Women) - 12 Nigerian basketball players have been called to training camp in preparation for this summer's FIBA U19 World Championship for Women in Chile.

Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Secretary General Francis Gbiri said in Abuja that all the invited players - based in the United States where they play at collegiate and high-school levels - are expected to report to the team’s camp from 7 to 14 June in Washington DC.

From there, the team will fly to France where they will play warm-up games against Brazil, China and France, one of their Group B foes.
The 2011 FIBA U19 World Championship for Women will be held in Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas, Chile, between 21 and 31 July.
The first-ever U19 women's team from Nigeria will be coached by Adewumi Aderemi, who last year guided Nigeria's U18 side to a second place at the U18 FIBA Africa Championship for Women in Cairo, Egypt.
“The Nigeria Basketball Federation has announced its roster for this summer’s FIBA U-19 World Championship," Gbiri said.
“The tam will report for training camp in Washington DC, before flying to Fougeres and Reze, France to take part in warm-up games between 17 and 26 June.

In Chile, Nigeria will play in Group B of the Preliminary Round and face Australia, France and hosts Chile.

Nigeria U19 Women (for 2011 FIBA U19 World Championship for Women): Peace Amukumara, Promise Amukumara, Loliya Briggs, Adesuwa Izoehelegee Ebomwonya, Elo Eldema, Elem Ibiam, Sarah Imovbioh, Afure Jemerigbe, Ezine Kalu, Ijeoma Uchendu, Sandra Udobi, Uju Ugoka.

ZARIA (DStv PBL) - Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos on Wednesday recorded its first regular season win in their Savannah conference pairing game against Nigeria Immigration basketball club of Kano.

The Rockets, coached by Umar Bala, showed great zeal against the visitors, with the scoreboard showing a 67-62 scoreline at the final buzzer.

An elated Bala told our correspondent that his team just realised that they couldn’t go on losing week after week.
The former Kano Pillars basketball club points guard and captain gave assurance that the team would be better in the 2011/ 2012 season thanks to a Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) ruling, which relegated Plateau Peaks basketball club.
Peaks who lost its week-13 regular season game to Yelwa Hawks, will try its luck in the lower national division-one next season.
Peaks basketball club relegation came as a results of forfeiting two regular season games against Bauchi Nets and Kano Pillars, the team thus become the second casualty in the 2010/2011 season after Delta Force basketball club of Asaba suffered the same fate in the Atlantic conference of the league.

Meanwhile, in the other Savannah conference games, defending champions Kano Pillars defeated Niger Potters of Minna by 107-67 points while Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna edge past Bauchi Nets 78-66.

The Savannah conference regular season will be rounded off on Sunday.

By: Olusegun Ikuesan
FIBA

(by Olusegun Ikuesan)

Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos on Wednesday recorded its first regular season win in a Savannah conference pairing of the DStv Premier Basketball League against Nigeria Immigration basketball club of Kano by 67-62 points.

The Coach Umar Bala tutored side who had dropped twelve of their thirteen regular season games showed great zeal against the visitored when they came calling on Wednesday at the sports facility of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

An elated Umar told our correspondence on phone that his boys just realise that the team cant go on losing week after week.

The former Kano Pillars basketball club points guard and captain gave assurance that the team will be better in the 2011/ 2012 season thanks to a Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) ruling which relegated Plateau Peaks basketball club.

Peaks who lost its week-13 regular season game to Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi by 80-113 points will try its luck in the less fancy national division-one come next season.

Peaks basketball club relegation came as a results of forfeiting two regular season games against Bauchi Nets and Kano Pillars, the team thus become the second casualty in the 2010/2011 season after Delta Force basketball club of Asaba suffered the same fate in the Atlantic conference of the league.

In another week-13 game played Wednesday in the Savannah conference of the DStv Premier League, defending champion, Kano Pillars basketball club defeated Niger Potters basketball club of Minna by 107-67 points while Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna edge past Bauchi Nets basketball club by 78-66 points.

Savannah conference regular season will be rounded off on Sunday with two local derbies as Kano Pillars basketball club take on city rival Nigeria Immigration basketball club at the sports hall of the Sani Abacha stadium, Kano, Yelwa Hakws basketball club will go up against Bauchi Nets basketball club at the sport hall of the National Sport Commission centre in Bauchi. Tapgun Rockets basketball club will play host to Niger Potters basketball club of Minna in ABU, Zaria and relegated Plateau Peaks

DAY 1 RESULTS, 12 MAY 2011:

COURT A:
University of Witwatersrand 1st v. Wanderers Scorpions (M)…54-34
Monash University v. University of Johannesburg (W)…22-60
Diepkloof Ball Addicts v. Vaal University of Technology (M)…32-58
Braamfontein Blues v. Monash University (M)…51-36

COURT B:
Momentum v. Randburg Rhinos (M)…39-69
University of Witwatersrand 2nd v. Soweto Raptors (W)…21-68
Goodfellas v. Jozi Nuggets (M)…47-44
MBL All Stars v. University of Johannesburg (M)…19-75
DAY 2 RESULTS, 13 MAY 2011:
COURT A:
University of Witwatersrand 1st v. Monash University (W)…33-21
Vaal University of Technology v. Northern Tigers (M)…52-36
PBS Predators v. University of Witwatersrand 2nd (M)…34-29
Soweto Raptors v. Vaal University of Technology (W)…37-32
Braamfontein Blues v. MBS All Stars (M)…39-20something (sorry…its seems I didn’t copy this one correctly…will gt some1 to confirm…my bad)

COURT B:
Wanderers Scorpions v. University of Johannesburg (W)…47-29
Monash University v. University of Limpopo (M)…41-45
Pretoria Heat v. Goodfellas (M)…49-45
Northern Tigers v. University of Witwatersrand 2nd (W)…5-64
e-Life Architects v. Wanderers Scorpions (M)…62-42

DAY 3 RESULTS, 14 MAY 2011:

COURT A:

Northern Mighty Tigers v. Breyten Mighty Eagles (M)…FORFEIT
University of Limpopo v. University of Johannesburg (M)…44-57
University of Limpopo v. Wanderers Scorpions (W)…16-43
Jozi Nuggets v. University of the Witwatersrand 2nd (M)…65-…36
Diepkloof Ball Addicts v. Breyten Mighty Eagles (M)…FORFEIT
Northern Tigers v. Vaal University of Technology (W)…29-36
Momentum v. University of the Witwatersrand 1st (M)…46-47
Pretoria Heat v. University of the Witwatersrand 2nd (M)…71-21
Braamfontein Blues v. University of Limpopo (M)…50-30
University of Witwatersrand 1st v. University of Limpopo (W)…44-15
e-Life Architects v. Randburg Rhinos (M)…23-55
Monash v. University of Johannesburg (M)…30-47
Vaal University of Technology v. Breyten Might Eagles (M)…24-93

COURT B:

Diepkloof Ball Addicts v. UJ Alumni (M)…52-53
University of the Witwatersrand 1st v. Randburg Rhinos (M)…50-54
Momentum v. e-Life Architects (M)…41-62
Goodfellas v. PBS Predators (M)…54-51
University of Limpopo v. MBL All Stars (M)…39…-35
University of the Witwatersrand v. University of Johannesburg (W)…26-44
Randburg Rhinos v. Wanderers Scorpions (M)…54-51
Jozi Nuggest v. PBS Predators (M)…63-35
UJ Alumni v. Breyten Mighty Eagles (M)…69-30
Monash University v. Wanderers Scorpions (W)…65-28
University of Witwatersrand 2nd v. Vaal University of Technology (W)…14-86
UJ Alumni v. Northern Tigers (M)…49-34
Pretoria Heat v. PBS Predators (M)…76-28

DAY 4 RESULTS, 15 MAY 2011:

COURT A:
University of Johannesburg v. University of Limpopo (W)…49-14
University of the Witwatersrand 2nd v. Goodfellas (M)…12-54
University of the Witwatersrand 1st v. Wanderers Scorpions (W)…24-37
Vaal University of Technology v. UJ Alumni (M)…59-48
University of the Witwatersrand 1st v. e-Life Architects (M)…49-18
Braamfontein Blues v. University of Johannesburg (M)…47-53

COURT B:
MBL All Stars v. Monash University (M)…38-23
Momentum v. Wanderer Scorpions (M)…51-40
Monash University v. University of Limpopo (W)…FORFEIT
Soweto Raptors v. Northern Tigers (W)…46-31
Pretoria Heat v. Jozi Nuggets (M)…63-33
Diepkloof Ball Addicts v. Northern Tigers (M)…39-58

POINTS (MEN’S TEAMS): *Top Team in Pool A played Top in Team Pool D…& Top Team in Pool B played Top Team in Pool C*

SEMI FINALS:

MEN:
Randburg Rhinos v. Vaal University of Technology…40-44
Pretoria Heat v. University of Johannesburg…63-47

WOMEN:
Wanderers Scorpions v. Soweto Raptors…37-30
Vaal University of Technology v. University of Johannesburg…45-36

FINALS:

WOMEN: Vaal University of Technology v. Wanderers Scorpions…71-62 (MVP = Requelh Molema from VUT)
MEN: Vaal University of Technology v. Pretoria Heat…39-63 (MVP = Neo Mothiba from Pta Heat)

Today at YMCA
M: Power v Rhino (8pm)
W: Gladiators v Amazon (6pm)

It has almost become a habit in the recent past that most teams promoted to the MTN-Fuba League Division One get relegated at the first opportunity.

That clearly underlines a gap between the top and the other divisions. Upon their return after a four-year absence, Charging Rhinos vowed to correct that.
A nervy 68-66 tip-off victory over Nkumba Marines gave them belief but they will need a lot more than faith against DMark Power at YMCA court today.
While the former champions were away, Power won two of the last three titles and are among the frontrunners for this one. “Many people say there isn’t good basketball in division two but we can change that perception if we play well,” Rhinos skipper Mark Opio said.
The shooting guard, too, knows that responsibility lies squarely on his shoulders and might need more than the 21 points he scored against Marines.
Ten-point barrier
None of Opio’s teammates breached the 10-point barrier as his side-kick Walter Omony laboured through an injury for his seven points and seven boards.
Power’s championship defence started well with a 96-91 result over Miracle Eagles.
Today provides a chance for coach Bernice Ankunda to exploit the abilities of his roster.
Understudy point guard Emmanuel Enabu, also rookie of the year, is one of those who should pile up minutes along with forward Michael Kojo and centre Robert Wanitho.
On the other hand, Isaac Afidra needs to continue his return to offensive form having regained near-full fitness.

PLS Hawks and Anse Etoile Stars both reached century marks in their weekend matches as things heat up in the race for the championship.

Reigning league champions PLS Hawks were victorious over leaders Premium Cobras 102-77, putting an end to their unbeaten run, while Anse Etoile Stars easily climbed to the top spot after smashing fifth placed Cadettes 118-21.
Already lost once to Mont Fleuri Dawgz, Hawks started the encounter on a very high tempo and took a comfortable 35-23 lead at the end of the first quarter, with Daniel Victor chipping 11points.
The second period was no different, as Hawks kept pushing forward, adding another 25 points – with 10 points from Nigerian Alao Solomon – compared to 16 for Cobras to maintain their lead. The halftime score was 60-39.
Victor and Solomon combined for 19 of Hawks’ 23 points scored in the third quarter, while Amadou Sylla scored eight points for Cobras, bringing their total to 16 for the quarter.

With PLS Hawks already in the driving seat, Cobras dug into their reserve to at least cut on the lead during the fourth quarter. Eight points – including two treys – from Timmy Adam did the trick for Cobras as they managed to outscore Hawks 20-19.
Solomon was Hawks’ top scorer with 34 points while Darren Lesperance led the scoring for Cobras with 19 points.
Despite the defeat, Premium Cobras remain on top of the league table with 13 points from six wins and a loss out of seven matches, while PLS are second on 11 points after five wins and a loss out of six matches.

Anse Etoile Stars had full control over the young Cadettes team and completely outscored them 33-4, 16-8, 32-0, and 37-9 to conclude a devastating 118-21 victory. Magdeline Julienne had the hot hands for Stars with 33 points while captain Laura Francoise was Cadettes’ top scorer with seven points.
Unbeaten Stars now top the league table with maximum 10 points after five matches, while Cadettes lie fifth with only four points from as many matches.

In another women’s league match played during the weekend, Mont Fleuri were victorious over Juniors 75-32. Mont Fleuri are now occupying the third spot with eight points from three wins and two losses while Juniors tail the table with three points after three losses.

In the men’s league, Cascade Bullets collected their third win of the season with a narrow 82-81 victory over Angels. Bullets have now gathered seven points from three wins and four loses. They are occupying the fifth spot on the table while Angels are sixth with as many points from two wins and four losses.

In a bottom of the table clash, Anse Boileau-based drifters collected two precious points over Razors with their 78-66 victory.

Drifters are now seventh with eight points from seven matches, one spot ahead of last placed Razors which have collected only five points from as many matches.

Angela Okoth and Silalei Shani scored 17 points each as Eagle Wings edged out Co-Operative Bank 66-54 in the women’s Kenya Basketball Federation premier league match. Irene Makori replied with 20 points for the bankers.

In another match, Gladiators doused USIU-A Flames 49-32. Michelle Otinda scored 13 points for Gladiators. Hilda Indasi hit 17 points for USIU-A Flames with Brenda Odulla scoring 12 and Getrude Sagala 10.

In the men’s division one, Trail Blazers overcame Kenya Polytechnic 47-37. Shem Otieno scored 26 points and Godfrey Abuya had 11 for the winners. Present Orengo replied with 11 for Kenya Polytechnic while Eric Makokha had 10. Another match saw Ben Oluoch score 21 points as Nairobi Aviation lost 46-62 to University of Nairobi Terrorists. Bill Oketch scored 12 points for Terrorists and Hillary Kubai 11.

Mutwiri Kiongora scored 20 points for Blazers but this was not enough as they lost 46-57 to a well-drilled KCA University outfit. Abraham Moses (17), Robert Otieno (14) and Alphonce Muchiri (14) top-scored for KCA University.

Results
Women’s League: Eagle Wings 66 Co-Op Bank 54,
National Division One: Trail Blazers 47 Kenya Polytechnic 37, Nairobi Aviation 46 Terrorists 62, Blazers 46 KCA University 57,
Men’s Premier League: Tigers 75 Masinde Muliro University 89. USIU-A Flames 32 Gladiators 49.


Eric Odanga

By USHER KOMUGISHA

Played on Sunday
Men, Division 1
Nkumba 50 Falcons 62
Division 2
MBC Rocks 55 K. Riders 52
Division 3
Kings 60 Rez Life 61
Airforce 73 Sky Jammer 40
Bushcourt 76 B. Jackets 38
Women
UCU 76 Cubs 14

NEWLY appointed Falcons basketball club president, Denis Mbidde will be basking in joy all season long after landing a deal worth sh160m with Crown Beverages, the bottlers of 7-Up and sister products.

In an interview, Mbidde revealed that they had reached an understanding with 7-up as their new sponsor this year, coming with sh160m that will be used for players’ wages and Falcons events.
Brand manager Timothy Luzinda confirmed that the sponsorship deal is already in place. The team actually donned the new jerseys on Sunday night.
Trophy-less for the last three seasons, Uganda’s club with a record six league titles switched to mediocre mode both on the domestic and regional levels but Mbidde promises a renaissance.

Meanwhile, UCU Lady Canons’ new recruit Peace Nakirijja could face a ban for pouring water on referee John Omondi after he made a controversial call in the game between the Falcons and Nkumba Marines on Sunday.

Results - Fuba League
M: Marines 50-62 Falcons
W: UCU 76-16 Mak Cubs

A more than usual Sunday evening crowd came to YMCA court to watch an MTN-Fuba League game between Falcons and Nkumba Marines.
Many of the fans were there to judge what kind of team Falcons were after some of their players walked out prior to the postseason except Richard Osano Omondi, Karim Nkusi, Cedric Sinarinzi and Sudi Ulanga.
Omondi stayed to take charge of their 62-50 victory over Nkumba Marines. He contributed a team-high 16 points, eight rebounds and eight assists to get Falcons over the line after a slow start only for Omondi to injure his wrist inside the final seconds attempting a dunk.
Joel Pinya added 14 points but Falcons will need more support if they are to reign.

By Ostine Arinaitwe

THIS year’s national basketball league will involve ten clubs following last minute entries by St.Joseph Kabgayi and Nyarugenge.
Initially, the league was expected to throw off over the weekend but had to be delayed for another week, to incorporate the two clubs.
“They registered late so we decided to postpone the league because they were still finalizing some player transfers,” the national basketball federation (Ferwaba)’s technical director Shema Maboko said.

Kabgayi and Nyarugenge now join reigning champions Kigali Basketball Club (KBC), APR, CSK, Espoir, UGB, Rusizi, Kigali Institute of Education (KIE), National University of Rwanda (NUR) and.

Meanwhile APR coach Cliff Owuor has vowed to wrestle the title from KBC.
“We did not play to our potential last year. We were not consistent enough but we have done a lot during the off season and are in good shape for the new season,” the former Kenyan International told this paper recently.

The indomitable lions have already shown their intent by luring Zambian shooting guard Patrick Buzangu to the military side.

The second round of the ongoing Greater Accra basketball championship is shaping up as the men begin to separates from the boys in the country’s top flight league.

Last year’s bridesmaid in the ladies division, Custom Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS) tackle Holy Family on Friday May 6 at the Prison’s court. The game will be keenly contested as both teams have shown tremendous abilities this season.
CEPS, current Thome Cabalan champions are eager to win the series after they missed out last term to perennial foes Police. They’ve remained one of the strongest sides in the ladies division and veteran coach Braimah Lawah isn’t ready to stop adding trophies to the club’s rich cabinet.
Police currently lead the table and that brings massive pressure on CEPS to win Friday’s game.

In the men’s division, Fire and Warriors meet in a potential cracker at the same venue. Both sides’ need to get decent result to cushion their quest maintain a respectable position on the league table.

Venue, Prisons, Cantonment.
Opponent, Reformers.

Yes, two weeks in a row playing home teams on their home court. basketball is a sport home court advantage is part of the game plan. And all were in to see what Reformers could put up being this was the two teams second meeting in this year L. Besides, its been over three years they last won a match against Hoops.

Another youngster making his debut for Hoops was Francis L. coming in from the junior side. The opposing team bench saw him dress up and calls were made to verify his inclusion as been a part of the team. This should not be a surprise, this is a young dynamic player coming up. That was easily address and we went to jumpball.

Reformers seems to take an early control of the game. Both teams seems to be careful passing the ball around. Especially from the Reformers. They settle in for three point shooting hitting a couple. Hoops, which is more athletic and aggressive went to their usual first half drive and drop play. Fred Y. aka Osofo and Benjamin D. aka Sky Walker communicated well while other team mates assisted along the way. Hoops lead at the end of the first quarter 11-13.

From the beginning of the second quarter Reformers seems to stick to their game plan of looking for shots from above the arc and fast break points. On the other hand the bigs of Hoops played high post, dishing out passes to cutters and jump shooters. Both teams actually play good defense. Hoops defending the perimeter while they tried closing the lanes. But that didn’t go too well as some of their key players got into foul trouble. Noticeable was Francis sinking his first shot attempt from beyond the arc early in the second quarter copying from his team mate Michael who did same in his debut last week.

At the half it was close with Hoops leading by a point 23-24.

The third quarter Reformers change their game plan, instead of shooting from the arc they change to dribble drive. Which caught the defense of Hoops unaware as they had change from 2-3 to 1-3-1. Reformers got some easy layups from back door cuts. Before a time out was call. The game became physical from this end. With a lot of hard fouls coming from the Reformers end. Knocking Hoops players all over the floor. A lot of mangle bodies could be seen on the floor at certain times when after rebounds. Osofo got a swollen on his right eye but stayed in the game. Abdul was on the receiving end of an elbow in his stomach and had to sit out most of the third and fourth quarters. Efe was sent flying into the side fencing. Perhaps that was a part of their game plan. This slowed the Hoops offense greatly and by the end of the third quarter Reformers lead 39-37.


The fourth quarter had to be the decider. And the home team had the crowd in it. They were on their feet cheering on and applauding every made shots. They had their larget lead by five certain time in the quarter from back to back threes. With three minutes remaining Sky Walker clutch gene started to work. He single handedly took over the Hoops offense while his team mates played tough defense. He relentlessly attacked the glass scoring with contact sending him to the charity stripes. This was crunch time and the Hoopsters were showing how mentally tough they can be. With 35 seconds remaining Hoops took the lead had a stop and Sky Walker attacked the lane and was foul on his way up. Hoops lead by 2 with 20 seconds. Seems like last week, wherein ‘Sky’ had to make the final two free throws . He did, and Reformers needed two possession. They put the ball in play and was met with full court pressure. ‘Afri Cola’ of Reformers mange to put up a shot from beyond the arc highly contested just before the final buzzer. This sent the home crowd in a frenzy before they notice it wasn’t enough for a win or to send the game in overtime.

‘Sky Walker’ lead all scorers with 25pts, 6rbds, 3stls. Every member of the team but in great effort. ‘Osofo’ played the whole game controlling the young players of Hoops and was all over the place pulling down rebounds and giving assists, he had 4pts, 8assts, 8rbds. Efe also held his head with 10pts, 7rbds and a block. Young guns Michael and Francis slash and dice the defense of Reformers, Francis with 5pts and Mike manage 2assts and a steal and his usual tough defense on perimeter shooters. Elvis contributed with 6pts but shot 0-3 from behind the arc. Abdu had a couple putback on the offensive rebound and Zizi is taking seat as the Bruce Bowen of Hoops. Defending the post and pulling down defensive rebounds one after the other. His help defense was excellent through out the game. Another player making his debut was Walade, he shot 0-4 from the field but contributed in defending the perimeter shooters.


What can be said of the current Hoops squad. These are young hungry lads mentally tough and ready to take on anyone.

Up next, CEPS at the Prisons sport grounds. Tuesday, 4pm.

Results
Men:
Miracle 69-45 Heaters
Women:
Nabisunsa 41-39 Crane
Division Two
UCU JV 35-55 Diamonds
St. Michael 51-61 Vegetarian

Miracle Eagles hardly broke any sweat in defeating Heaters 69-45 for their first MTN-Fuba League victory of the season. Coming off an opening day 96-91 loss to champions DMark Power, it’s the kind of game the play-off hopefuls needed to get the season rolling. And it came in the easiest fashion with Miracle not only scoring half of their points from the outside but also not letting any Heater breach the 10-point barrier.
Stephen Omony didn’t even have to strip whereas Norman Blick came on in the third quarter to sink 10 points including two three-pointers.
The former continued to handle the coaching duties in the absence of one. Guard Donald Bajunga stood out with a game-high 13 points.
Centre Brian Ssentogo briefly resuscitated the dour game with two monster dunks in his seven points.
In the end, there was common feeling that this could be a long season for Heaters if they don’t improve having lost two games already.

Results
Men:
UCU 67-87 Warriors
Women:
KCC 63-47 KIU
Today at YMCA
Men:
Marinesv Falcons
(7.30pm)
Women:
UCU v Mak Cubs
(5.30pm)
Division Two
MBC v Riders
(3.30pm)
Kings v Rez Life
(1.30pm)
Division Three
Air Forcev Sky Jammers (11.30am)
Bush Court v Jackets
(9.30am)

Physically, UCU Canons beat Ivan Enabu on Friday night in what seemed like a punishment for leaving in the off-season to join Kyambogo Warriors.
They needed more than that. Enabu aided Warriors’ charge towards a crushing 87-67 victory over his former side on Friday night.

Former teammate Sande Okot dished three of his four fouls on Enabu but couldn’t stop him from collecting 18 points as Warriors won their opener.
Instead, the guard, often poor with his shooting in key moments, made UCU pay by sinking 11 of his 14 free throws.
“I thank God for the ability,” Enabu told Daily Monitor after the anti-climatic game at YMCA court. “I decided to focus on the game and put all emotions aside.”
Ex-Warriors forward Martin Okwako (13), guard Adams Njoroge (18) and centre Robert Ogweno should have heeded that advice not to get ejected like they all did in the fourth period.

UGB vs CSK (10am)
KIE vs Rusizi (10am)
KBC vs APR (12pm)

THE eagerly awaited National Basketball League throws off tomorrow with a hotly contested game between reigning champions Kigali Basketball Club (KBC) and big guns APR at Amahoro Indoor Stadium.

Heads are expected to roll as KBC try to prove that last year’s heroics were not a stroke of luck.

Led by inspirational center Fiston Muhire, KBC pipped Cliff Owour’s indomitable lions to the title by one point.

But the former Kenyan International, who has strengthened his team by signing shooting forward Patrick Buzangu from Zambia, is determined to wrestle the title away from KCB.

“We did not play to our potential last year. We were not consistent enough but we have done a lot during the off season and are in good shape for the new season,” Owuor said.

Muhire, who also won the league with Marines, has warned APR. “We are not going to sit back and fold our arms; we want to retain the league title and the best way of doing that is to win games.”

The game will be preceded by a clash between UGB and CSK. The other day’s game pits Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) against Rusizi. Espoir and National University of Rwanda (NUR) are the other teams in contention

Champions Co-operative Bank take on Strathmore University as the national basketball league resumes with 15 matches on card in Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru and Mombasa this weekend.
Co-op beat Masinde Muliro University 62-55 in their last assignment in Kakamega and the bankers will be out again to garner two points against the students in the high-profile match at Nyayo National Stadium.
Strathmore’s 61-45 pipping of KCB Lions motivated coach Tonny Ochieng to rock Ulinzi Warriors 63-62 and he will parade Tonny Abondo and Ronald Gundo to resist the anticipated pressure from Co-op’s Moses Kamau, Eugene Genga and Peter Kiganya.

Dangerous in outside shooting

After recovering to defeat Thunder 63-46, Ulinzi host MMUST at 4.30pm in a tie expected to go either way.
Experienced Victor Odendo, who has proved dangerous in outside shooting, will team up with Ancette Wafula and Ben Mufutu to frustrate the visiting varsity students.
Terrorists, who have remained impressive after their relegation, take on World Hope while Africa Nazarene University battle Kenya Polytechnic.
Coach Sylvia Njeri’s Strathmore women start as favourites against a weak Kenya Poly as Mennonites square it out with KCA-U.

Making their first outing

KPA, whose unbeaten record shattered by Eagle Wings (49-45) in Nairobi recently, host Predators at Makande Gymnasium. Winnie Kanani and Valentine Apondi will be making their first outing for the tourists.
Nakuru Club host Nairobi’s Umoja at Menengai

(NBBF/Zenith Bank WBL) - First Deepwater will stake its title at this year’s edition of the Zenith Bank Basketball Women League (WBL), which begins today at the sports hall of the Abuja National Stadium.

All teams are already in the Nigerian capital for today’s opening ceremony, which will also have the nine other clubs in attendance.
Former champions First Bank will lead the challenge to take the title away from their city rivals.
First Deepwater, now in their third season in the WBL, joined up in the 2008-09 season after acquiring the rights of defunct club side Amazon.
Other teams expected to challenge First Deepwater include Dolphin of Lagos, Customs also of Lagos, Sunshine Angels of Akure, Delta Force of Asaba, AHIP of Kano, Immigration also of Kano, FCT Angels of Abuja and Plateau Rocks of Jos.
The Abuja leg is the first phase of the league and will run between 12 and 22 May. The first game will tip off on Friday.
First Deepwater’s greatest challenge would come from First Bank, a team that has dominated the competition before it was dethroned last season.

Winner of the tourney will get N1 million (Nigerian naira), the second team will get N500,000 while the third will get N300,000. Also, individual awards will also go to outstanding players at the end of the third phase in Lagos.

Olusegun Ikuesan

FIBA

Kaduna (DStv PBL) - Defending champions Kano Pillars showed their mettle with a 75-49 road win over Bauchi Nets as play resumed in the Savannah Conference of the DSTV Premier Basketball League on Wednesday.
With the result, Kano remained the only unbeaten team in the league.

Elsewhere, Kada Stars hammered Niger Potters 103-67 in Kaduna and Yelwa Hawks registered a road win of their own by getting the better of Nigeria Immigration 63-55.
In Abuja, Plateau Peaks got the better of city rivals Tapgun Rockets 54-49.

The action resumes on Sunday as the race for the league Final-8 playoffs hots up as well as the battle against relegation.

Olusegun Ikuesan

Written by Felix Eupal

If UCU Canons fans felt aggrieved when Kyambogo Warriors pipped them to a slot in last season’s playoff final, then words cannot begin to describe how they felt when they lost one of the Enabus – Ivan – to, yes, Warriors a few weeks back.

Clearly, UCU Canons faithful couldn’t wait to get their revenge. The fixtures of this season’s topflight basketball league have given them an opportunity at the soonest; the UCU Canons take on the Warriors this Friday. Many have dubbed the match as a Canons v Enabu affair. But not UCU coach, Nick Natuhereza.
“There is nothing personal in any way because Ivan (Enabu) left on good terms. So, it will be UCU v Warriors,” Natuhereza said.
Natuhereza, who still hurts from UCU’s loss to Warriors in last season’s playoff semis, says he is going to approach Friday’s match with a “very good defence and execution.”

And he will have a lot of resources at his disposal. UCU welcomes star point guard Suudi Ulanga, Desmon Owili and Robert Ogweno. Jeff Omondi, Martin Okwako and Adam Njoroge are the other high profile players that Natuhereza could turn to.

Mande Juruni doesn’t have as much resources as Natuhereza. The former UCU Lady Canons coach, Juruni replaced Gad Eteu at Warriors and early indications are that he has found the Kyambogo side as hot as a furnace. Already, critics have cited Juruni’s complacent nature as something that could cost the Warriors.

Juruni, who believes that basketball games are won off the boards, has a tough job to ensure that Warriors get over their disheartening rebounding. And with Henry Malinga not yet fully recovered from a knee injury, rebounding is still going to be an uphill task for Warriors.

Youngster Isaac Kamya is another hurdle for Juruni. The 18-year-old fresh from high school has no doubt about his talent but he has failed to turn it into results on the big stage. Having lost forward Joshua Etalu to KIU Titans, Warriors finds itself with not that many frontline options.

UCU will as such be out to exploit this weakness.

Today at YMCA
M: UCU v Warriors (8.30 pm)
W: KCC v KIU (6.30 pm)
Wednesday result
Ndejje 69-42 Heaters

Mandy Juruni wants to tweak Kyambogo Warriors’ philosophy in order to at least match last year’s success in the MTN-Fuba League Division One.

Famed for being slow, the losing finalists start their season today against UCU Canons with coach Juruni hoping to go one step better than his predecessor Gad Eteu.
“In the time I have been here, we have been working on improving our speed because this team is always known for being slow,” Juruni said at practice.

Big signing
Signing guard Ivan Enabu from UCU in the off-season might serve that purpose quite well for a team that took so long to gel last season. Whereas they laboured through the regular season, UCU were cruising but laboured past KIU Titans 59-53 last Saturday.

Coach Nick Natuhereza doesn’t want to think tipping-off before Warriors do brings an advantage. “You might play first and it helps but in most cases, there’s no big difference since every game is different,” he said.

He expects guard Sudi Ulanga (malaria), forward Desmond Owili and centre Robert Ogweno to play after missing the opener. The latter two had family engagements. UCU could also be helped by Martin Okwako having inside knowledge having been with Warriors for the past two years.

In that time, they won the league and were on the wrong end of a thrilling 4-3 finals loss to DMark Power. Nothing less than another Holy Grail will please former MVP Ronnie Kasewu if the Malinga brothers, Henry and Eric, plus Michael Kariuki settle in quicker than last year. “Our target is get to the finals and try to win back the (league) title,” Kasewu vowed. Elsewhere, KCC Leopards face KIU Rangers in a women’s clash of two sides that got to the semifinals last season.

Today at YMCA
Men:
Ndejje v Heaters
(8.30pm)
Div. III:
Planets v Air Force
(6.30pm)

Three years ago, Walker Obedi vowed to take his Ndejje University Angels team into the MTN-Fuba League play-offs at the earliest possible opportunity.

He failed to do that in his first two seasons but expects better when they tip-off this evening against newly-promoted Heaters at YMCA court.

Two sixth place finishes show how much work coach Obedi has to make up to make it into the promised land of the top four.
Ndejje had their moments in beating two-time champions Nkumba Marines and losing to UCU Canons in overtime. “We will put every ounce of energy in fighting for the play-offs. It won’t be easy but we are more determined,” Obedi said ahead of their season bow.

Failure to snatch centre Brian Ssentogo from Miracle Eagles leaves Ndejje with the same problems of failing to dominate the paint.
The return to fitness of forward Moses Otem after an injury ravaged season must greatly heal those flaws inside.
They have improved their depth chart by adding Jeje Chaka, Henry Mugisha and Michael Opolot, all of whom were part of the defunct KCC Lions.
“Last year, I gave up too early. I plan to be stronger as a person and learn from what we have achieved so far,” Obedi said as he prepared for an unknown quantity.

Sunday results
Men:
KIU 53-59 UCU
Women:
Stormers51-46 Gladiators
Div II:
Riders39-57 UCU JV
Rez Life 83-68 Stormers
Div III:
City Oil 67-65 Sharing
Crane 62-69 Kampala


Much as UCU Canons got a close game they could have done away with, coach Nick Natuhereza only cared about getting their MTN-Fuba League season rolling.

To him, even an unconvincing 59-53 victory over KIU Titans on Sunday night served his targets quite nicely without a host of his cast.
“At the start of the season, you just want to win a game to settle then take care of how we play later on,” Natuhereza said.
Perhaps, he had a point since star guard Sudi Ulanga, who joined the university side from Falcons, missed the game with malaria.
His team was further depleted by the absence of Kenyan centre Robert Ogweno and forward Desmond Owili due to family commitments.
They were not pretty at all but survived Abraham Juma’s onslaught that yielded 22 points and seven assists for coach Nimrod Kaboha’s team.

Third place Bauchi Nets basketball club will have its hands full as it host defending champion and Savannah conference top of the log of the DStv Premier Basketball League, Kano Pillars basketball club Wednesday at the Arena of the Bauchi Township Stadium.

The Week-11 ctacker promises to be a top-notch game as the Nets searches for a second straight playoffs ticket will the Pillars will want to maintain its invicibility as it remain the only team in the league this season that is yet to taste defeat.

In Kaduna Kada Stars basketball club will be at home to Niger Potters basketball club of Minna as Kaduna fans yarn for the return of basketball action.

Nigeria Immigration basketball club of Kano will attempt to rattle visiting Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi when both clash at the sport hall of the Sani Abacha stadium in Kofar Mata, Kano Wednesday afternoon as two Jos-based teams play away from home when Plateau Peaks basketball club host Tapgun Rockets basketball club.

Baya led by as many as 20 – 26-6 – in the opening five minutes, but then hit a dry spell allowing Premium Cobras to battle back to earn what turned out to be an easy 95-81 win in the men’s first division league.

Baya players and coaching staff walked off the NSC multipurpose hall court on Saturday feeling crushed and they have themselves to blame for releasing their grip on the match and letting Cobras steal the victory from them.
Both Baya and Premium Cobras entered the match as the only teams not to have lost this season and one of them had to lose their winning run. Probably no one expected Baya to finish on the losing end of this confrontation, let alone by such a big margin, as they controlled the Cobras early on.
Shooting guard Darren Lesperance was instrumental for the Cobras, giving his team the lead for good at 27-26 on his second 3-pointer with 8 minutes 52 seconds (8:52) left in the second quarter and with the third of his game-high five treys concluded a seven-minute 30-0 run that opened a 10-point lead 36-26.
Lesperance finished the match with 28 points, Amadou Sylla added 18 off the bench before fouling out, Seychelles power forward Dominic Pillay got 13 and both playmaker Christopher Camille and Nigerian centre Ugbaje Ajodoh finished with 12 apiece to stretch the Cobras’ winning streak to six.
With centre Robert Léon playing the whole 40 minutes, Dave Roseline only getting a few minutes run and Steve Denis not on the team sheet for missing training despite being present for the match, Baya twice came close to equalising at 40-39 and 46-45, but each time coach Guy Hall’s team pulled away to stay in command.
Playmaker Giovanni Laval got 21 points including four shots from downtown, Léon added 17 and Jean-Paul Camille chipped a meager 12 including one trey for Baya whose bench need to play harder if they are to stay in the title hunt.
After a victory like this, the Cobras, who also beat Baya in a near blow-out 90-73 victory to reclaim the men’s Curtain-raiser title on Sunday February 20, proved they have the talent to push defending champions PLS Hawks this season as long as they keep their composure.

Cobras and Hawks are to clash this coming Saturday and the latter will surely be looking to put an end to the former’s unbeaten run as a loss will spell trouble for them having already lost once to Mont Fleuri Dawgz this campaign.

If anything can be learned from Saturday’s top-of-the table clash, it is expect the unexpected this term.

The Hawks warmed up for Saturday’s showdown with the Cobras by steamrollering bottom Razors 119-27 on the back of 39 points from Nigerian Alao Solomon and 22 from Daniel Victor.

Coach Clifford Joubert’s team made sure the Razors did not score in double digits in all four quarters which they won 22-6, 22-9, 31-8 and 44-4 to bring their points tally to nine after four wins and a loss in five games.
Mont Fleuri Dawgz were always in control against last year’s second division champions Drifters, outscoring the Anse Boileau-based team 15-9, 20-10, 22-11 and 17-13 on the way to a 74-43 victory.
Finishing with a game-high 15 points, Nigel Cafrine led two other Dawgz – Marvin Asba and Kevin Romain – in double digits with 11 points apiece.

After getting their fourth win in six games, Mont Fleuri Dawgz are third in the standings with 10 points – one less than runners-up Baya who trail leaders Cobras one.
Playmaker Kenneth Sophie (24 points) and Biko Biong (26) teamed up for 50 of Cascade Bullets’ points in a 10-point margin 79-69 victory over RC Dynamics who were paced by Albert Duncan with 13 points including a three.
Biong and Ralf Racombo fouled out for the Bullets, but the rest of the team shored up the defence after they had built their victory with a big third quarter performance during which they outscored Dynamics 27-14.

The victory was the Bullets’ second in six games and they are seventh on eight points – the same total as MBU Rockers who were not in action and have a match in hand.

Meanwhile, in the men’s division two, Juniors extended their winning streak to four with a 61-54 top-of-the-table win over the previously unbeaten Anse Etoile who got 20 points from Faizal Naiken.
Marcus Victor had the hot hands for Juniors with 18 points off the bench.

Despite still learning the ropes, the young lads of the Cadets team proved that if coach Pascal Fostel continues to provide them with the right ammunition, they can become good players although they lost 32-110 against AAP Brothers whose win was their first in two games. Cadets have lost all their three games.

LAGOS (DStv Premier Basketball League) - Dodan Warriors booked the fourth and final Atlantic Conference playoff berth by defeating Chariots basketball club in Lagos on Saturday.

Dodan Warriors basketball club and Comets basketball club picked valuable wins over Chariots basketball club and Islanders basketball club on Saturday in Lagos.
Warriors rounded off a 69-47 with style thanks to a stellar three-point buzzer-beater shot from combo guard Mohammed Bukar.
Warriors dominated the Chariots in all departments of the game winning in all four quarters by 19-14, 16-11, 21-11 and 13-11 to end the regular season with a 8-6 records and fourth place in the conference.
Fellow playoff qualifiers Comets and Unions Bank also rounded off their regular seasons with wins against Islanders and Police baton respectively.

Action returns to the Savannah Conference this week after a forced three-week break due to the outbreak of election-related violence in the north of the country.

The conference regular season will completed in two weeks, giving the four playoff teams from the conference enough time to prepare for the final-8.

By: Olusegun Ikuesan
FIBA

LAGOS (NBBF/Zenith Bank WL) - Zenith Bank has released 15 million NSN (1 million USD) for this edition of the National Division Women Basketball League, which begins next Thursday at the Abuja Stadium Gymnasium.

The head of Zenith's Philanthropy section, Eunice Sampson, said it was a pleasure for the bank to sponsor the tournament, which is in its seventh season, and promised that the bank will constantly work with the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) to move women's basketball forward in Nigeria.
“We are passionate about the women's league because it a means to empower the youth and also a way of empowering the female folks to excel,” Sampson said.

The league will held in three phases with the first taking place between 12 and 22 May at the Sports Hall of the Abuja national stadium, the second 9-22 July in Akure, while the third and final phase is billed for 3-13 August in Lagos.

By: Olusegun Ikuesan
FIBA

(by Olusegun Ikuesan) africabasket.com

As the regular season of the Atlantic conference of the DStv Premier Basketball League draw to a close Dodan Warriors basketball club and Comets basketball club picked valuable wins over Chariots basketball club and Islanders basketball club on Saturday in Lagos.

Dodan Warriors BC defeated Chariots BC by 69-47 points with a stellar three-point shot from combo guard Mohammed Bukar at the buzzer to give the 2006 FIBA Africa Champions Club third place finisher a final-8 playoffs ticket.

Warriors dominated the Chariots in all departments of the game winning in all four quarters by 19-14, 16-11, 21-11 and 13-11 to end the regular season with a 8-6 records and fourth place in the conference.

Comets BC on the other hand made a bold come-back after missing out of the playoffs party for several years with a 69-61 points victory over Islanders BC for a 9-5 record and third place finish.

The Dakar, Senegal 2001 second place team of the now rested FIBA Africa Winners Club Cup Championship (ASHRY CUP) picked the first three quarters by 17-10, 20-17, 14-12 but lost the last one by 18-22 points respectively with former Nigeria international Dennis Ebikoro showing great presence for the 2003 winner of the Nigerian league.

Union Bank basketball club on Sunday extended its regular season record to 13-1 with a 96-81 points victory over Police Baton basketball club in a local derby at the sports hall of the national stadium, Lagos.

The victory thus earn the Coach Ayinla Johnson tutored bankers the top spot of the Atlantic conference of the DStv Premier Basketball League leading three other clubs from the conference (Royal Hoopers, Comets and Dodan Warriors) to the final-8 playoffs.

...... Action resume in the Savannah

Action return to the Savannah conference after weeks of inactivities due to the outbreak of violence that rock some Northern part of the country after the outcome of the Presidential election with four games lined up Wednesday across four cities.

In Bauchi, Nets will be at home to defending champion of the league Kano Pillars basketball club in a week-11 game, Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna will host Niger Potters basketball club of Minna at the sports hall of the Muritala Muhammed Square, Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi will be the guest of Immigration basketball club of Kano at the sports hall of Sani Abacha stadium, while Plateau Peaks basketball club and Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos in a local derby in Abuja.

The conference regular season is expected to the rounded up in two weeks of resumption of hostilities in order to give teams from the conference enough time to prepare for the final-8 playoffs.

Playing against Magic at their Tudu is one of those stressful match every team in the Greater Accra league looks forward to. Main reason is that most of those who trip in will for sure be supporting the home boys of Tudu. This Saturday Hoops was to prove a point. Taking notes from Magic comeback win against Reformers last week wherein they came from a eleven points deficit in the final minutes to win with an array of three point shooting. Although most of the Hoops regulars were not present for the match, the eight who were showed that the team really has depth. Making his debut for the senior side was junior point guard Michael M. He has been awaiting this moment wherein he will be call to action. He only got to know he was starting about 30mins before jumpball and made it to the venue right on time. Also traveling from Kumasi was Cyprian A., another smooth player, dropping down for his second cap for Hoops. Remember he made his debut last season in the season opener victory over Police. Others in the line up included Debra B., Fred Y., Abdulrazak A. Ishmael S. and Zizi R. A seven man roster who knew it was time to bring out their Spartan game. Magic seeing a short roster tried to draw early fouls. Their aggressive drives to the rim showed that was their game plan. Hoops on the other hand played motion offence with free flow of the ball and looking to give the extra pass. A couple of fast breaks also and Debra aka Sky Walker scored 12pts of the team 19pts for the quarter. Fred was the contributing factor in most points as he handed most of the assists and collected rebounds which lead to fast breaks. Mike also made his first shot for the senior side. Sinking a three in his first attempt which silence the vocal crowd at the venue and drew some applauds from a section of the fans in attendance. Nii Awuley, a former Hoops player, now playing for magic tried to show his former team mates he gat better game by scoring five of their thirteen points for the quarter. First quarter ended 13-19. The second quarter saw a better compose Hoops running its new offence call X adding the drive and drop for big man Abdul who easily score 8pts in the quarter. Foul trouble had him go to the bench with Cyprian steeping in his shoes. Tight defense especially from Mike who seem to appear from nowhere on each fast break attempt wither deflecting the ball, intercepting or putting pressure on his opponent causing them to miss easier layups. There was an instant he had two of his opponents missing series of tries while his team mates stroll down and collected the defensive rebound. This drew applauds once again from a section of the fans. Magic was held to 6pts in that quarter. Score at the half was 19-37. You could tell that the Hoops players were smelling blood in the water and was ready to go for an all out kill in the second half. Unknowingly, some administrative issues delayed the start of the third quarter and by the time it could be settle it seems the Hoops players became out of sync. The third quarter started on a rather sloppy note with turnovers. Which had Magic to go on a 18-2 run despite a time out from Coach C. of Hoops to gather his boys focus. That help by slowing down Magic run but Hoops shot a low percentage for the quarter and score its fewest point in a quarter in team history. With sky Walker and Ishmael managing only a field goal each. Score entering the final quarter 37-40. In the early 4th Hoops had an amazing run with brilliant plays from Mike, and three point shooting from Fred, aka Osofo. But each time Magic same to claw back within three. It seems like déjà vu for Magic when they shot two three pointers back to back tying the score at 52 apiece with 35seconds remaining. This sent the Tudu crowd in a frenzy. A quick time out form the Hoops bench was called. Game plan was to work the ball and find a sure shot hopefully just before the final whistle. With twentyfive seconds remaining, Sky Walker attacked the open lane and was foul on his way up. A time out by Magic Coach Soweto was called. It was the final time out as both sides had used up all their timeouts. The game rested on Sky shoulder. He made both free throws taking Hoops up 52-54. With 20secs remaining, Magic tried to settle for a game winning three point shot but the man on man defense from Hoops cause a turnover with 10 seconds remaining. Quick passes between Osofo and Mike ran down the game clock and it was a relieve to hear the final whistle. Once again, the crowd was entertain to excellent basketball from both sides. Although a short roster with many key players not in attendance, Hoops pull out victory, remaining one of two unbeaten teams in the 2011 L Sky walker had 19pts while player of the week goes to Michael M for his steadfast performance scoring 11pts, 5assts, 2stls in playing 40mins. Abdul added 8pts 4rbds, Fred 8pts 8assts 8rbds, Ishmael 4pts 6rbds and 2blks

http://capecoasthoops.net

Written by Felix Eupal

While all pundits expected Miracle Eagles to light up the 2011 Fuba basketball season, no one predicted their woes.

In fact, it might be fair to say that a first playoff appearance and maybe a maiden Fuba title have already flown out of the window. First, they wasted money on Richard Omondi, a player still in contract and they have since lost that battle to Falcons. Then they emptied their bank account luring four time champion and multiple MVP Norman Blick from Power.
See Blick is a victim of circumstance who put pen to paper just because he wanted a quick buck and then realized that it was the wrong decision when the ink had dried on the dotted line.
Efforts to have the one year contract canceled so he returns to his former club all came to naught. Now he has to endure a full season playing against the people he once described as ‘family’ and adapt to a life without younger brother Donald Blick on his side.

Even before Friday’s game, Blick looked out of place, quiet and tense during the warm up drills; certainly, he was not the usual Blick who jokes about his anticipation of bar hopping after the game. Blick is also used to a cult following but even that is no more.

The crowd which always chants his name now booed him referring him to Judas. His occasional camera moments were nowhere as his team mates struggled to anticipate his next moves. And because he had built such a strong bond with Power, he found it hard to dismantle them.
But Blick’s dismal performance to go past Dmark Power in the season opener (they fell 91-96) is simply a scratch of the rot beneath the surface. Miracle used all they had to get Blick and now don’t have a coach to lead the team.
Having skipper Stephen Omony coach and play at the same time is recipe for disaster. It didn’t work while he was at Falcons and it isn’t going to work either with Miracle. For most of the time, he was restricted to the bench and came in when the damage had already been done.

The players couldn’t play and think at the same time. This, coupled with the fact that they have to compete with two want-the-ball stars, then you understand that Miracle’s journey is anything but straight this season.

In Summary

Results
Men:
Power96-91Miracle
Women:
UCU 60-37 A1
Today at YMCA
Men:
KIU v UCU (7.30pm)
Women:
Stormers v Gladiators (5.30pm)
Div II:
Riders v UCU JV (3.30pm)
Rez Life v Stormers (1.30pm)
Div III:
City Oil v Sharing (11.30am)
Crane v Kampala (9.30am)

Stephen Omony didn’t check in until Miracle Eagles had a 13-point lead to make up at the start of the second quarter. Three consecutive lay-ups off fast breaks from reserve Allan Musoke (7) told him that he was more relevant on the YMCA court than off it.

When he did come on, DMark Power stretched it to huge 23-point in the third quarter but only held on to defeat Miracle 96-91 in a thrilling MTN-Fuba League opener on Friday. Omony scored a game-high 26 points and five assists for a team seeking a maiden play-off appearance even though the champions were having nothing of that.

For them, beating Norman Blick (13), who left Power for Miracle in the off-season meant as much as setting the tone for the season ahead. Power, clearly the frontrunner of the five play-off contenders, led the way 27-20, 29-19 and 25-24 through the first three.

“That’s a very good team. They pushed us very hard but we managed to get through it,” guard Ben Komakech, 14 and nine assists, said. Komakech, aggressive compatriot Richard Balemwa (17) and forward Isaac Afidra with 21 points and 10 rebounds were simply unplayable early on.

The organisers felt wrong about the tip-off choice – this was becoming an anti-climax for the quiet huge crowd. They got vindication when Miracle took the final period 28-15 and at 2.08 seconds had cut the margin to four (87-91).

Jimmy Enabu (18), on his Power debut since signing from UCU Canons, was just not going to take a loss after Omony and Komakech had fouled out. In the early women’s game, Lorraine Akinyi shot 23 points and seven rebounds as champions UCU Lady Canons beat A1 Challenge 60-37.

Here is a list of Sudanese basketball players currently in high school and in colleges in the United States.

Name/Height/School

Cheir Ajou (216-C) 7-1 Culver Academies (IN) committed to New Mexico for 2011-2012 season
Obij Aget (216-C) 7-0 La Lumiere School (IN)
Peter Jurkin (213-C) 7-0 United Faith Christian HS (NC) committed to Indiana for 2012-2013 season
Leek Leek (203-C) 6-6 Tallahasssee CC
David Nyarsuk (216-C), 7-1 Mountain State Univ.
Mading Thok (211-C) 6-11Mount Michael HS (NE)
Deng Gol (208-C) 6-10 Mount Michael HS (NE)
Deng Leek (211-C) committed to Western Kentucky for 2011-2012 season
Akoy Agau 6-8 Omaha Central (NE)
Angelo Chol (211-F-93) committed to Arizona for 2011-2012 season
Peter Jok 6-3 Roosevelt HS (IA)
Dau Jok (193-G) 6-4 Pennsylvania
Ring Ayuel (225-C-88) 7-3 Ohlone CC
Steven Gatkuoth (213-C-88) 7-0 Mars Hill
Thon Luony (198-F) Lewis & Clark CC
Victor Abass 6-4 Johnson State College
Koang Doluony (200-F) 6-7 Indiana State
Justin Anyijong (205-F/C-88) 6-9 Toledo
Teeng Akol (210-F/C) 6-11 Western Kentucky
John Riek (215-F-89) Mississippi
Majok Majok (206-F) 6-9 Midland JC
Goldeng Deng (187-G) Park