30 August 2011
KENYA : Thunder strike Mennonites at Nyayo showdown .
THUNDER struck Mennonites 72-43 in a premier league show at Nyayo Stadium gymnasium. Kakamega based Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) had 22 points from Alex Lugasi as they clobbered Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA) University 56-32 for their second win in the city. Co-operative Bank of Kenya hit Sprite Storms 58-51 as Irene Makori scored 19 for the bankers while Susan Akinyi made Storms 17. Mennonites ladies atoned for the men’s loss hitting Predators 42-25 behind Georgina Obwana’s 11. In the lower division, Nairobi Aviation College rocked World Hope 70-59 while Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) recovered to beat Trailblazers 63-54. Barclays Bank won 48-39 against Baraka Xtreme in the Nairobi Basketball Association league at Railways Club. Timo Otieno made 14 for winners. Marvin Otieno had the losers 11. Alvin Ali nailed 11 that included two buzzer beating treys in the third and fourth quarters to pep Old Pirates to a 57-42 triumph over Multi Media University. Strathmore University hit Legacy 59-45 and KU Pirates whipped Friends of Basketball 63-43.
TANZANIA : Kenyans, Malawians coming for next month’s Zone Five basketball club tournament
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania will host this year’s East and Central Africa basketball championship, it has been revealed. The event also known as Zone Five tournament will take place at a venue yet to be named. Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) assistant secretary Michael Waluye confirmed yesterday that preparations for the regional championship were on course. Waluye said Tanzania will field four teams in the event.
He named them as ABC, Savio (men), JKT and Jeshi Stars (women).Countries that have so far confirmed their participation in the event are Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Eritrea and hosts Tanzania, according to the TBF official. (Jessca Nangawe)
He named them as ABC, Savio (men), JKT and Jeshi Stars (women).Countries that have so far confirmed their participation in the event are Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Eritrea and hosts Tanzania, according to the TBF official. (Jessca Nangawe)
UGANDA : Komakech inspires Power to win
By Charles Mutebi
FUBA League
Division 1: Men
Power 68 Heaters 60
Women
Stormers 58 Cubs 21
Sparks 66 Gladiators 64
BEN Komakech scored a team-high 19 points as Power defeated the Heaters 68-60 in the FUBA men’s division one at the YMCA on Saturday.
It was the first time this season that the mercurial Komakech led the defending champions in scoring.
Perhaps he was just in the mood or maybe he’s begun his typical end of season flourish. The point guard believes the playoffs bring out more from him than the regular season, which he says is an easier stage.
In the women’s event, Stormers beat Cubs while Sparks edged the Gladiators.
FUBA League
Division 1: Men
Power 68 Heaters 60
Women
Stormers 58 Cubs 21
Sparks 66 Gladiators 64
BEN Komakech scored a team-high 19 points as Power defeated the Heaters 68-60 in the FUBA men’s division one at the YMCA on Saturday.
It was the first time this season that the mercurial Komakech led the defending champions in scoring.
Perhaps he was just in the mood or maybe he’s begun his typical end of season flourish. The point guard believes the playoffs bring out more from him than the regular season, which he says is an easier stage.
In the women’s event, Stormers beat Cubs while Sparks edged the Gladiators.
UGANDA : Eagles, Falcons flying in tandem
WANDEGEYA
Miracle Eagles and 7UP Falcons are flying at different heights with totally different goals in the MTN-Fuba League.
The Eagles edged ever close to a maiden postseason appearance with an 85-58 rout of faltering Nkumba Marines whereas Falcons eased their relegation fears by beating Ndejje University Angels 69-57 on Sunday.
Eagles’s big two – Stephen Omony and Norman Blick – finally played like clones on a slippery YMCA court surface following a heavy afternoon downpour. Blick scored a game-high 18 points and 10 rebounds to go with Omony’s 13 and 16 as coach Joe Burua’s side surged to second.
The duo was eclipsed by Edwin Kateregga, who scored 19 to leave Marines in a relegation fight. Here, coach Timothy Odeke will find a fighting Falcons side that banked on Peter Elungat’s 18 points to win.
Miracle Eagles and 7UP Falcons are flying at different heights with totally different goals in the MTN-Fuba League.
The Eagles edged ever close to a maiden postseason appearance with an 85-58 rout of faltering Nkumba Marines whereas Falcons eased their relegation fears by beating Ndejje University Angels 69-57 on Sunday.
Eagles’s big two – Stephen Omony and Norman Blick – finally played like clones on a slippery YMCA court surface following a heavy afternoon downpour. Blick scored a game-high 18 points and 10 rebounds to go with Omony’s 13 and 16 as coach Joe Burua’s side surged to second.
The duo was eclipsed by Edwin Kateregga, who scored 19 to leave Marines in a relegation fight. Here, coach Timothy Odeke will find a fighting Falcons side that banked on Peter Elungat’s 18 points to win.
29 August 2011
KENYA : Eagle Wings dictate the pace as Lions Roar past champions
Eagle Wings Basketball team extended their win to 16 matches to maintain their top spot on the league table with 33 points. The 2009 champions rolled over students Kenya Polytechnique with relative ease in their weekend match at the Nyayo stadium winning 80-46 with Eunice Ouma contributing 18 points.
In Mombasa, Strathmore Swords’ impressive form was once against bruised when they fell to the defending champions KPA 56-38 in an entertaining encounter played at the KPA hall in Makande.The win over Strathmore(31pts) narrowed the gap between the two sides to one point but KPA(30pts) have two matches in hand having played 16 compared to Strathmore’s 18 matches.
Strathmore Blades also went blunt in Mombasa as the student’s men ‘s team fell to their hosts KPA 64-39 in a tense match that could have gone either way.
In Nairobi at the Nyayo stadium, the ever explosive encounter between the top banking teams lived to its billing but this time KCB came out stronger to roar past the defending champions’ Cooperative bank.
Not even the top form of veterans Peter Kiganya and Abel Nson could save the champions from the wrath of their Arch Rivals KCB who won the match with a ten points gap on 71-61.
The winners of the day KCB took their opponents head on with an ambush grabbing the first quarter at 23-16 before fizzling away to lose the second quarter by two points (15-17).The second period was an entertaining affair with players from both teams exhibiting why they are ranked among the best in Kenya.
In Mombasa, Strathmore Swords’ impressive form was once against bruised when they fell to the defending champions KPA 56-38 in an entertaining encounter played at the KPA hall in Makande.The win over Strathmore(31pts) narrowed the gap between the two sides to one point but KPA(30pts) have two matches in hand having played 16 compared to Strathmore’s 18 matches.
Strathmore Blades also went blunt in Mombasa as the student’s men ‘s team fell to their hosts KPA 64-39 in a tense match that could have gone either way.
In Nairobi at the Nyayo stadium, the ever explosive encounter between the top banking teams lived to its billing but this time KCB came out stronger to roar past the defending champions’ Cooperative bank.
Not even the top form of veterans Peter Kiganya and Abel Nson could save the champions from the wrath of their Arch Rivals KCB who won the match with a ten points gap on 71-61.
The winners of the day KCB took their opponents head on with an ambush grabbing the first quarter at 23-16 before fizzling away to lose the second quarter by two points (15-17).The second period was an entertaining affair with players from both teams exhibiting why they are ranked among the best in Kenya.
28 August 2011
UGANDA : Warriors, KCC resume normal service
M: Rhino 46-78Warriors
W: KCC 43-38A1 Challenge
Today at YMCA
M: Miraclevs Marines (7.30pm)
M: Ndejjevs Falcons (5.30pm)
W: Amazon vs KIU (3.30pm)
Division Two
Kings vs Diamonds(1.30pm)
Stormers vs Gulu (11am)
At Makerere court
Div. III: City Oil vs Shooters (3.30pm)
Div. III: Stone vs Crane (1.30pm)
Kyambogo Warriors and KCC Leopards returned from the two-week break in the MTN-Fuba League and continued from where they left off, albeit doing so in contrasting fashion to maintain their stranglehold of their respective divisions.
Warriors thrashed Charging Rhino 78-46 whereas women’s giants KCC remain the only unbeaten team in topflight basketball after they laboured past fading A1 Challenge 43-38 at YMCA court on Friday night. Unlike in the first round when Rhino was the only team to defeat Warriors, the former never got a sniff this time as the 2009 champions bossed all four quarters 14-9, 24-8, 16-3 and 24-16 respectively.
Ronnie Kasewu, MVP when they won their only championship, scored 16 points and seven rebounds and Ivan Enabu added 16 points without showing the rust of not playing in a month. “It means a lot to win a game because it brings confidence,” Warriors coach Mandy Juruni said after his team surged to 9-1.
Eric Malinga shed a slow start to finish with 12 points and 11 rebounds to punish Rhino, who started life without Mark Opio on a low. The latter is in India for further studies and Rhino coach Ronnie Mutebi felt the pinch hard. “I am so disappointed in the way we executed our game. There were so many turnovers and missed shots,”he said.
W: KCC 43-38A1 Challenge
Today at YMCA
M: Miraclevs Marines (7.30pm)
M: Ndejjevs Falcons (5.30pm)
W: Amazon vs KIU (3.30pm)
Division Two
Kings vs Diamonds(1.30pm)
Stormers vs Gulu (11am)
At Makerere court
Div. III: City Oil vs Shooters (3.30pm)
Div. III: Stone vs Crane (1.30pm)
Kyambogo Warriors and KCC Leopards returned from the two-week break in the MTN-Fuba League and continued from where they left off, albeit doing so in contrasting fashion to maintain their stranglehold of their respective divisions.
Warriors thrashed Charging Rhino 78-46 whereas women’s giants KCC remain the only unbeaten team in topflight basketball after they laboured past fading A1 Challenge 43-38 at YMCA court on Friday night. Unlike in the first round when Rhino was the only team to defeat Warriors, the former never got a sniff this time as the 2009 champions bossed all four quarters 14-9, 24-8, 16-3 and 24-16 respectively.
Ronnie Kasewu, MVP when they won their only championship, scored 16 points and seven rebounds and Ivan Enabu added 16 points without showing the rust of not playing in a month. “It means a lot to win a game because it brings confidence,” Warriors coach Mandy Juruni said after his team surged to 9-1.
Eric Malinga shed a slow start to finish with 12 points and 11 rebounds to punish Rhino, who started life without Mark Opio on a low. The latter is in India for further studies and Rhino coach Ronnie Mutebi felt the pinch hard. “I am so disappointed in the way we executed our game. There were so many turnovers and missed shots,”he said.
27 August 2011
UGANDA : Proline expand sports empire to basketball
By Charles Mutebi and Julius Senyimba
Today, FUBA League
Men’s div 1: Rhino v Warriors
Women: KCC v A1
FUBA league basketball returns to centre court today at YMCA with men’s division leaders Kyambogo taking on Charging Rhino and the KCC Leopards battling A1 Challenge in the ladies league.
However, fans will be glad to know that something potentially more monumental has just happened off-court.
Proline have jumped into local basketball. Previously known as an exclusively football company through their Uganda Super League club Proline and Proline football Academy, the organisation have now spread their tentacles into the burgeoning world of local hoops. And they have taken the shortest way in, buying out men’s top-division side Heaters in a deal worth sh35m.
“Our aim as Proline is always to develop the sporting talent and help young people improve their lives,” said Proline boss Mujib Kasule during the official announcement of the deal at Lugogo.
“You have always known Proline as a football company but we are expanding into other sports like basketball. Other big (European) football clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona have teams in basketball, handball and volleyball.”
Heaters will officially become the Proline Heaters next season but that is just a slight formality.
Kasule revealed plans to develop a basketball academy, the first of its kind in Uganda, will start in December.
Today, FUBA League
Men’s div 1: Rhino v Warriors
Women: KCC v A1
FUBA league basketball returns to centre court today at YMCA with men’s division leaders Kyambogo taking on Charging Rhino and the KCC Leopards battling A1 Challenge in the ladies league.
However, fans will be glad to know that something potentially more monumental has just happened off-court.
Proline have jumped into local basketball. Previously known as an exclusively football company through their Uganda Super League club Proline and Proline football Academy, the organisation have now spread their tentacles into the burgeoning world of local hoops. And they have taken the shortest way in, buying out men’s top-division side Heaters in a deal worth sh35m.
“Our aim as Proline is always to develop the sporting talent and help young people improve their lives,” said Proline boss Mujib Kasule during the official announcement of the deal at Lugogo.
“You have always known Proline as a football company but we are expanding into other sports like basketball. Other big (European) football clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona have teams in basketball, handball and volleyball.”
Heaters will officially become the Proline Heaters next season but that is just a slight formality.
Kasule revealed plans to develop a basketball academy, the first of its kind in Uganda, will start in December.
UGANDA : Heaters aspire to show off capability
KAMPALA
Today at YMCA
M: Heatersvs.Power (8pm)
W: Gladiators vs. Sparks (6pm)
W: Muk Cubs vs.Stormers (2pm)
Division Two
Rez Life vs. Gulu Hawks (4pm)
Division Three
Bush Courtsvs. Bisto (1.30pm)
Jackets vs.Sharing (12pm)
At Makerere court
Div. I: Riders vs. MBC Rocks (3pm)
Div. II: UPDF vs.K’la Univ. (11am)
Despite the immediate takeover by Proline Sports Empire, Youth Heaters will not be under any pressure to win when they begin their MTN-Fuba second round campaign underway against DMark Power tonight.
Heaters will concentrate on unleashing a flawless game as they seek Power’s scalp and ease on their relegation fears. Coach Brian Wathum, who will give debut caps to three Kenyan players, is confident his team will pull through.
Today at YMCA
M: Heatersvs.Power (8pm)
W: Gladiators vs. Sparks (6pm)
W: Muk Cubs vs.Stormers (2pm)
Division Two
Rez Life vs. Gulu Hawks (4pm)
Division Three
Bush Courtsvs. Bisto (1.30pm)
Jackets vs.Sharing (12pm)
At Makerere court
Div. I: Riders vs. MBC Rocks (3pm)
Div. II: UPDF vs.K’la Univ. (11am)
Despite the immediate takeover by Proline Sports Empire, Youth Heaters will not be under any pressure to win when they begin their MTN-Fuba second round campaign underway against DMark Power tonight.
Heaters will concentrate on unleashing a flawless game as they seek Power’s scalp and ease on their relegation fears. Coach Brian Wathum, who will give debut caps to three Kenyan players, is confident his team will pull through.
UGANDA : Uspa journalists prove they can play basketball after all
Prior to the game, Isaac Afidra wryly told journalists he couldn’t wait to see them take on the Celebrities team at last Friday’s All-Star game. But by the end of their 12-10 win, Uspa had proved they could play the game. Felix Eupal was the pick of the bunch with a series a lay ups that drove YMCA wild but the clown prince of the evening was Michael Kigozi who shot from downtown with what appeared like a wicked throw. Hiphop star Navio was good at crossovers, and nothing nothing else, while KS Alpha huffed and puffed but to no great effect. Patrick Kanyomozi was like a fish out of sea when he stepped on court and could only admire Eupal’s ability inside and outside the paint. In sport, the old adage is that ‘victory hides a multitude of sins while defeat always requires an explanation.’ Uspa are thus not required to make an explanation. The All-Star game was further proof that basketball is going places with a remarkable turn up.
MALAWI : Sozobal posts up for grabs
Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) has asked the basketball fraternity to vie for Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal) executive positions which are up for grabs.
Sozobal will hold its annual general meeting at Blantyre Youth Centre on September 10 where new office bearers would be ushered in.
Basmal vice president Ben Mlasaanthu said time was high for others to try their luck at Sozobal.
“In recent times some members have been accusing Sozobal members of failing to solicit sponsorship. Its time they become executive members so that they should see what happens inside. Maybe they have keys to help the committee secure sponsorship,” he said.
Mlasaanthu said his sentiments should not be misconstrued by outgoing members.
“I am neither attacking outgoing members nor backing them. I know that the outgoing om mittee tried its part to run the league without sponsorship,” he said.
Sozobal outgoing general secretary Hope Chisamanga said those interested to vie for positions should present their application letters to Basmal secretariat.
Chisamanga admitted that it was tough running a league which had no sponsors.
Meanwhile, league action will continue this weekend with leaders Bricks set to meet defending champions Magang’a at Chancellor College on Sunday.
In another match on the same day, Chanco Hawks will face Crazy Warriors.
Sozobal will hold its annual general meeting at Blantyre Youth Centre on September 10 where new office bearers would be ushered in.
Basmal vice president Ben Mlasaanthu said time was high for others to try their luck at Sozobal.
“In recent times some members have been accusing Sozobal members of failing to solicit sponsorship. Its time they become executive members so that they should see what happens inside. Maybe they have keys to help the committee secure sponsorship,” he said.
Mlasaanthu said his sentiments should not be misconstrued by outgoing members.
“I am neither attacking outgoing members nor backing them. I know that the outgoing om mittee tried its part to run the league without sponsorship,” he said.
Sozobal outgoing general secretary Hope Chisamanga said those interested to vie for positions should present their application letters to Basmal secretariat.
Chisamanga admitted that it was tough running a league which had no sponsors.
Meanwhile, league action will continue this weekend with leaders Bricks set to meet defending champions Magang’a at Chancellor College on Sunday.
In another match on the same day, Chanco Hawks will face Crazy Warriors.
UGANDA : Is the game better at YMCA or refurbished Lugogo?
For basketball enthusiasts, it is a question they love to pose among themselves without ever reaching a conclusion. YMCA is the traditional home of the sport but Lugogo has been used because of its roof facility time and again. Now that Lugogo is close to opening, it won’t be long before Fuba reach out NCS to use the facility, particularly for the playoffs. Oddly, the smaller YMCA arena accommodates more people and gives basketball a somewhat natural feel. The bigger Lugogo arena takes in less numbers and, for traditionalists, is not as good as YMCA. Eitherway, Lugogo’s completion is good for the game. However it is time for Fuba to consider the long term option of building their own venue.
26 August 2011
RWANDA : Hoops lose classification contest against Egypt
By Bonnie Mugabe
The men’s national basketball team lost 76-66 to Zone IV rivals Egypt in the classification match of the FIBA Africa Championship played yesterday in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Rwanda lost the first three quarters 14-19, 15-16, and 11-20 before claiming the fourth quarter 26-21.
Point guard Kenneth Gasana scored 19 points and made six assists with Olivier Muhizi added nine rebounds.
The hoops failed to march into the last eight after a 72-80 loss to Cote d’Ivoire on Wednesday. In another classification game, Chad saw off Togo in tight match which ended 63-62.
The men’s national basketball team lost 76-66 to Zone IV rivals Egypt in the classification match of the FIBA Africa Championship played yesterday in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Rwanda lost the first three quarters 14-19, 15-16, and 11-20 before claiming the fourth quarter 26-21.
Point guard Kenneth Gasana scored 19 points and made six assists with Olivier Muhizi added nine rebounds.
The hoops failed to march into the last eight after a 72-80 loss to Cote d’Ivoire on Wednesday. In another classification game, Chad saw off Togo in tight match which ended 63-62.
RWANDA : Rwanda makes bid for 2013 Fiba Afrobasket
RWANDA presented her bid to host the 27th edition of FIBA Africa Championship for Men-Afrobasket 2013 on Wednesday in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
But Rwanda’s bid faces stiff competition from Tunisia and Cote d’Ivoire, who also presented their bids to the Executive Council of FIBA Africa.
The meeting was chaired by president of FIBA Africa Mabusa Eseka of Democratic Republic of Congo. Eseka welcomed the delegates from the three countries and promised the continental body fairness in arriving at a final decision.
The Executive Committee will meet again in September this year in Bamako, Mali during the Afrobasket for Women to decide on the host country.
If the rotational basis is to be considered, Rwanda has an advantage over Tunisia and Cote d’Ivoire to host the tournament.
Despite having high class hotels and transport facilities, the country is still incapable of possessing modern gymnasiums to be used for competition and training necessities.
In 2009, Rwanda hosted their first ever Afrobasket competition and will hope to build on that if they win the 2013 bid
But Rwanda’s bid faces stiff competition from Tunisia and Cote d’Ivoire, who also presented their bids to the Executive Council of FIBA Africa.
The meeting was chaired by president of FIBA Africa Mabusa Eseka of Democratic Republic of Congo. Eseka welcomed the delegates from the three countries and promised the continental body fairness in arriving at a final decision.
The Executive Committee will meet again in September this year in Bamako, Mali during the Afrobasket for Women to decide on the host country.
If the rotational basis is to be considered, Rwanda has an advantage over Tunisia and Cote d’Ivoire to host the tournament.
Despite having high class hotels and transport facilities, the country is still incapable of possessing modern gymnasiums to be used for competition and training necessities.
In 2009, Rwanda hosted their first ever Afrobasket competition and will hope to build on that if they win the 2013 bid
NIGERIA : First Bank's Defeat Excites Erinfolami
The chief coach of First Deepwater Club, Lateef Erinfolami, has declared that his best moment at the just concluded Zenith Premier League in Akure was the defeat his side inflicted on their arch rivals, First Bank Club also of Lagos.
"It was a moment I felt really happy because we had prepared hard for the game. We could not afford to lose once again to First Bank after they beat us in Abuja during the first phase of the league," the former national team skipper told Trust Sports on arriving Lagos.
"The players knew what was at stake and they put a lot seriousness and commitment into the match. And after the game, we were all happy to let our opponent (First Bank) have their own bitter taste of defeat."
First Deepwater went past First Bank 60-58 points in the thrilling encounter that was played at the Akure Township Stadium.
He said they lost the first quarter by 12-13 points but rose to the occasion in the second quarter winning by 17-11 points to take a 45-41 point's lead into the break.
"It was a moment I felt really happy because we had prepared hard for the game. We could not afford to lose once again to First Bank after they beat us in Abuja during the first phase of the league," the former national team skipper told Trust Sports on arriving Lagos.
"The players knew what was at stake and they put a lot seriousness and commitment into the match. And after the game, we were all happy to let our opponent (First Bank) have their own bitter taste of defeat."
First Deepwater went past First Bank 60-58 points in the thrilling encounter that was played at the Akure Township Stadium.
He said they lost the first quarter by 12-13 points but rose to the occasion in the second quarter winning by 17-11 points to take a 45-41 point's lead into the break.
KENYA : Dockers Shine
KPA men's and women's teams rake in the points in Mombasa as KCB maul Mennonites at Nyayo
Kenya Ports Authority men's and women's teams collected maximum points during Kenya Basketball Federation national premier league matches in Mombasa over the weekend. KPA beat Blazers 86- 46 at KPA's Makande Gymnasium. The Dockers opened with Tom Okello scoring seven points before Jay Michoma of Blazers responded with three points. The home team led in the four quarters taking the first 29-10 points.
Okello emerged the top scorer with 18 points while the Blazers' Sydney Ochieng, with 11 points, was their highest point maker. Efforts by Ochieng , Samuel Mogesi and George Makori to narrow the gap were frustrated by the Dockers forward line of Okello , Micky Wana and Fred Otieno. In the last quarter the host led by Joseph Ouma widened the lead gap.
In the women's category, KPA beat Sprite Storms 53-37 point at the same venue. The home team lost the first quarter 10-11 before turning tables in the second, third and final quarters. The dockers team without international player Brenda Angeshi and Salma Akinyi who are in the national team bound for the Maputo African Games, still outplayed the visitors.
Such was the pace of the game that veteran Angela Bosire of Storms was carried out after pulling a muscle. In Division One- Kenya Navy were grounded by Nairobi Aviation 72-56. The visitors from the capital dominated all quarters 06-12, 20-20, 13-25 and 17-15 points. In Nairobi KCB Lions beat Mennonites 72-44 in a premier league clash at Nyayo National Stadium's gymnasium.
The bankers took an early 14-9 lead in the first quarter and shot ahead 18-13 in the second as the Knights struggled for grip. After the break, Lions continued to roar, building a 21-12 cushion in the third and 19-10 in the last quarter. Tobias Onyango led the tally with 20 points Cizar Ntirara made 13, Yoni Wanambiro had 11 and Victor Ochieng scored 10. The losers had 16 from Steve McOdongo. In the women's premier league show, national team players Silalei Agalo scored 22 points and Angela Okoth managed 17 to guide former champions Eagle Wings to an easy 75-25 win over Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA) University.
Strathnore University hit Kenya Polytechnic University 54-23 behind 14 points from Carol Onsiongo and 13 from Denise Apondi. The lower division matches saw Parklands Baptists go down 62-78 to World Hope while Nakuru Club beat Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) 72-60. In the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league matches at Railways Club, Old Pirates pipped Strathmore University 73-71. Martin Obure and Reagan Basweti shot 18 each but Collins Omondi led with 26. Barclays Bank beat Little Prince 71-57.Don Bosco crushed Friends of Basketball 62-41 with Joel Atebe scoring 24. KU Pirates ran rings round Neosasa Morans winning 42-15. Multi Media Univesity hit Heroes 61-46. Legacy nipped Dolphins 41-38.
Kenya Ports Authority men's and women's teams collected maximum points during Kenya Basketball Federation national premier league matches in Mombasa over the weekend. KPA beat Blazers 86- 46 at KPA's Makande Gymnasium. The Dockers opened with Tom Okello scoring seven points before Jay Michoma of Blazers responded with three points. The home team led in the four quarters taking the first 29-10 points.
Okello emerged the top scorer with 18 points while the Blazers' Sydney Ochieng, with 11 points, was their highest point maker. Efforts by Ochieng , Samuel Mogesi and George Makori to narrow the gap were frustrated by the Dockers forward line of Okello , Micky Wana and Fred Otieno. In the last quarter the host led by Joseph Ouma widened the lead gap.
In the women's category, KPA beat Sprite Storms 53-37 point at the same venue. The home team lost the first quarter 10-11 before turning tables in the second, third and final quarters. The dockers team without international player Brenda Angeshi and Salma Akinyi who are in the national team bound for the Maputo African Games, still outplayed the visitors.
Such was the pace of the game that veteran Angela Bosire of Storms was carried out after pulling a muscle. In Division One- Kenya Navy were grounded by Nairobi Aviation 72-56. The visitors from the capital dominated all quarters 06-12, 20-20, 13-25 and 17-15 points. In Nairobi KCB Lions beat Mennonites 72-44 in a premier league clash at Nyayo National Stadium's gymnasium.
The bankers took an early 14-9 lead in the first quarter and shot ahead 18-13 in the second as the Knights struggled for grip. After the break, Lions continued to roar, building a 21-12 cushion in the third and 19-10 in the last quarter. Tobias Onyango led the tally with 20 points Cizar Ntirara made 13, Yoni Wanambiro had 11 and Victor Ochieng scored 10. The losers had 16 from Steve McOdongo. In the women's premier league show, national team players Silalei Agalo scored 22 points and Angela Okoth managed 17 to guide former champions Eagle Wings to an easy 75-25 win over Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA) University.
Strathnore University hit Kenya Polytechnic University 54-23 behind 14 points from Carol Onsiongo and 13 from Denise Apondi. The lower division matches saw Parklands Baptists go down 62-78 to World Hope while Nakuru Club beat Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) 72-60. In the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league matches at Railways Club, Old Pirates pipped Strathmore University 73-71. Martin Obure and Reagan Basweti shot 18 each but Collins Omondi led with 26. Barclays Bank beat Little Prince 71-57.Don Bosco crushed Friends of Basketball 62-41 with Joel Atebe scoring 24. KU Pirates ran rings round Neosasa Morans winning 42-15. Multi Media Univesity hit Heroes 61-46. Legacy nipped Dolphins 41-38.
NAMIBIA : New NBF Board Holds 1st Meeting
The Namibia Basketball Federation (NBF) held its first board meeting in Walvis Bay recently to discuss a number of issues related to the revival and growth of the sport in Namibia as well as the endorsement of board members.
The gathering endorsed the appointment of NBF Development Officer Manuel 'Lito' Carbalho and NBF Secretary-General Carlos Manuel while it also discussed the way forward for the two officials A follow-up board meeting is to be held within the next two months.
The NBF thanked the government, through the sports directorate, for its support throughout the past 18 months, notably for assisting the federation getting the basketball governing body and the sport in particular back on its feet.
The government's support came through again during the board meeting when it availed transport to the delegates from the northern and central regions to travel to the coast.
"Basketball is a team sport and as such we believe that, through a strong spirit of partnership between team-mates - namely the regional entities, officials, clubs, leagues, volunteers, sponsors, partners, the media and friends in general - NBF can pave the way towards a strong and sustainable journey in the future," said NBF Secretary General Carlos Manuel.
The gathering endorsed the appointment of NBF Development Officer Manuel 'Lito' Carbalho and NBF Secretary-General Carlos Manuel while it also discussed the way forward for the two officials A follow-up board meeting is to be held within the next two months.
The NBF thanked the government, through the sports directorate, for its support throughout the past 18 months, notably for assisting the federation getting the basketball governing body and the sport in particular back on its feet.
The government's support came through again during the board meeting when it availed transport to the delegates from the northern and central regions to travel to the coast.
"Basketball is a team sport and as such we believe that, through a strong spirit of partnership between team-mates - namely the regional entities, officials, clubs, leagues, volunteers, sponsors, partners, the media and friends in general - NBF can pave the way towards a strong and sustainable journey in the future," said NBF Secretary General Carlos Manuel.
25 August 2011
UGANDA : Power-Warriors III?
Written by Felix Eupal
The basketball league second round rolls off this Friday but despite the meteoric rise of Miracle Eagles, it’s most likely going to be a familiar storyline when the dust settles, writes Felix Eupal
Despite everything we’ve heard about the meteoric rise of Miracle Eagles, it will be a familiar storyline when the dust settles. We are definitely going to hear about them over the next three months - about their Big Two (Stephen Omony and Norman Blick) but there is little chance of them preventing the much anticipated trilogy between champs Dmark Power and Kyambogo Warriors, which have contested the past two playoff finals.
Warriors were the form team in round one, winning all but one of their nine matches while Power and Miracle are both at 7-2. The fact that Miracle lost both first round matches to their rivals only tells half the story. Why I’m I so sure? Because basketball is not a two-on-two sport. Boasting the country’s best two players is not enough when the other three don’t match the opposition.
It’s also because the Eagles don’t have the depth to match up with the frontrunners. Then again, it could be because this is the fifth season many of Power and Warriors’ key players have been together, while this is the first time Omony and Blick are joining forces at club level. Normally, teams need to go through the several playoff disappointments to carry off the trophy (yes, Warriors did it in 2009).
That said, no doubt Miracle will be a major talking point; a team that has transformed from relegation candidates of two years ago to serious title contenders. But when push comes to shove, Miracle might not even be assured of a playoff place.
That’s because the 7Up Falcons still holds a slim chance of overturning Fuba’s point deductions. Should they succeed, the balance would be tipped; they stand to win back four precious points. Meanwhile, the clash against UCU Canons, currently lying fourth, could also go a long way in deciding who makes it to the final four.
The basketball league second round rolls off this Friday but despite the meteoric rise of Miracle Eagles, it’s most likely going to be a familiar storyline when the dust settles, writes Felix Eupal
Despite everything we’ve heard about the meteoric rise of Miracle Eagles, it will be a familiar storyline when the dust settles. We are definitely going to hear about them over the next three months - about their Big Two (Stephen Omony and Norman Blick) but there is little chance of them preventing the much anticipated trilogy between champs Dmark Power and Kyambogo Warriors, which have contested the past two playoff finals.
Warriors were the form team in round one, winning all but one of their nine matches while Power and Miracle are both at 7-2. The fact that Miracle lost both first round matches to their rivals only tells half the story. Why I’m I so sure? Because basketball is not a two-on-two sport. Boasting the country’s best two players is not enough when the other three don’t match the opposition.
It’s also because the Eagles don’t have the depth to match up with the frontrunners. Then again, it could be because this is the fifth season many of Power and Warriors’ key players have been together, while this is the first time Omony and Blick are joining forces at club level. Normally, teams need to go through the several playoff disappointments to carry off the trophy (yes, Warriors did it in 2009).
That said, no doubt Miracle will be a major talking point; a team that has transformed from relegation candidates of two years ago to serious title contenders. But when push comes to shove, Miracle might not even be assured of a playoff place.
That’s because the 7Up Falcons still holds a slim chance of overturning Fuba’s point deductions. Should they succeed, the balance would be tipped; they stand to win back four precious points. Meanwhile, the clash against UCU Canons, currently lying fourth, could also go a long way in deciding who makes it to the final four.
RWANDA : Hoops Olympic hopes end with defeat
By Bonnie Mugabe
Fiba Afro basket Championship
Last 16, yesterday
Rwanda 72-80 Cote d’Ivoire
RWANDA’s hopes of competing at next year’s Olympic Games were shattered as the men’s basketball team lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the knock out round of the FIBA
Africa Championship in a tightly contested game played yesterday at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Cote d’Ivoire joined the likes of Central African Republic, Nigeria and Cameroon in the quarterfinals.
Point guard Kenneth Gasana high scored with 30 points; Cameron Bradley added nine rebounds while Robert Thomson made three assists as Rwanda won the first
and two quarters by 19-17 and 25-16 respectively.
By somehow, Vaceslav Kavedzija’s side managed to throw away the third and fourth quarters by 18-25 and 10-22 hence handing victory and a place in the last
eight to the Western Africans.
The tournament serves as a qualifying championship for teams to participate in the quadrennial Fiba World championship and the Olympic basketball tournament
in London next year.
Fiba Afro basket Championship
Last 16, yesterday
Rwanda 72-80 Cote d’Ivoire
RWANDA’s hopes of competing at next year’s Olympic Games were shattered as the men’s basketball team lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the knock out round of the FIBA
Africa Championship in a tightly contested game played yesterday at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Cote d’Ivoire joined the likes of Central African Republic, Nigeria and Cameroon in the quarterfinals.
Point guard Kenneth Gasana high scored with 30 points; Cameron Bradley added nine rebounds while Robert Thomson made three assists as Rwanda won the first
and two quarters by 19-17 and 25-16 respectively.
By somehow, Vaceslav Kavedzija’s side managed to throw away the third and fourth quarters by 18-25 and 10-22 hence handing victory and a place in the last
eight to the Western Africans.
The tournament serves as a qualifying championship for teams to participate in the quadrennial Fiba World championship and the Olympic basketball tournament
in London next year.
KENYA : Ouma expected in camp as team gets ready for Maputo
By SAMMY KITULA
Former US-based star Rose Ouma arrives in Nairobi on Wednesday to beef up the national women’s basketball team ahead of the All Africa Games to be held in Mozambique from September 2.
Assistant team coach, Philip Onyango, who has been taking the players through their paces at the Nyayo National Stadium in the absence of coach Cliff Owuor, said the arrival of Ouma will be a big boost to the squad since she was part of the Kenya team for the last edition of the All Africa Games in Algeria in 2007.
The head coach was expected back in the country from Rwanda Friday evening.
Also expected in camp on Saturday is star forward Purity Odhiambo, who is a student at Uganda Christian University as the team looks to add punch to their front court.
According to Onyango, who also coaches Mombasa Sports Club and former regional and national schools basketball side Shimba Hills, the players are responding well to training and are determined to cause an upset in Maputo.
Players committed
“This is the best ever team I have handled in my coaching career. The ladies are disciplined and receptive, making our work easier.
“If they continue like this, we stand to be in the medal bracket”, the coach said. “It will be difficult to name the final 12 because every player is working hard on the court and ready to make the trip.”
The training camp was boosted by the arrival of KPA players Salma Akinyi, Brenda Angeshi and Hellen Oketch on Tuesday, while Vilma Achieng’ and Debra Obunga were expected in camp yesterday after completing their examinations.
Players who have been in training include Venessa Wacuka Mwangi (based in Namibia), Silalei Shani, Caroline Achieng, Hilda Indasi, Emma Nyakweba, Maureen Andalia, Linda Alando and Mitchel Otinda.
Others are Grace Wanjiku, Denis Apondi, Faith Owich, Samba Mjomba, Mercy Wanyama and Angela Akoth .
Margaret Wambui and Pamela Sinda could not make it to training due to commitment at their places of work according to the coach.
Former US-based star Rose Ouma arrives in Nairobi on Wednesday to beef up the national women’s basketball team ahead of the All Africa Games to be held in Mozambique from September 2.
Assistant team coach, Philip Onyango, who has been taking the players through their paces at the Nyayo National Stadium in the absence of coach Cliff Owuor, said the arrival of Ouma will be a big boost to the squad since she was part of the Kenya team for the last edition of the All Africa Games in Algeria in 2007.
The head coach was expected back in the country from Rwanda Friday evening.
Also expected in camp on Saturday is star forward Purity Odhiambo, who is a student at Uganda Christian University as the team looks to add punch to their front court.
According to Onyango, who also coaches Mombasa Sports Club and former regional and national schools basketball side Shimba Hills, the players are responding well to training and are determined to cause an upset in Maputo.
Players committed
“This is the best ever team I have handled in my coaching career. The ladies are disciplined and receptive, making our work easier.
“If they continue like this, we stand to be in the medal bracket”, the coach said. “It will be difficult to name the final 12 because every player is working hard on the court and ready to make the trip.”
The training camp was boosted by the arrival of KPA players Salma Akinyi, Brenda Angeshi and Hellen Oketch on Tuesday, while Vilma Achieng’ and Debra Obunga were expected in camp yesterday after completing their examinations.
Players who have been in training include Venessa Wacuka Mwangi (based in Namibia), Silalei Shani, Caroline Achieng, Hilda Indasi, Emma Nyakweba, Maureen Andalia, Linda Alando and Mitchel Otinda.
Others are Grace Wanjiku, Denis Apondi, Faith Owich, Samba Mjomba, Mercy Wanyama and Angela Akoth .
Margaret Wambui and Pamela Sinda could not make it to training due to commitment at their places of work according to the coach.
24 August 2011
UGANDA : Falcons vow to make play-offs
Falcons will not give up the fight for a play-offs slot in the topflight MTN-Fuba League. The record champions are joint sixth with 11 points on the 10-team table and can be relegated after the Fuba technical committee docked them three points for fielding an illegal player.
Falcons used Kenyan Phillip Alweny against Charging Rhino and Warriors. They will now lose the return fixtures against the two sides by forfeiture as Fuba insist the Kenyan had not been cleared to play by his former side Posta.
“We can win all our second round games,” Falcons star guard Abdullahi Ramadhan said after they rallied to defeat champions Power 79-68 on Sunday night.
That’s exactly what Falcons need to do to avoid missing the postseason for the very first time. “We cannot fail to make the play-offs,” Ramadhan vowed. But before they start the tough journey to the play-offs, Falcons have a boardroom battle on their hands.
The Fuba technical committee has summoned club chairman Denis Mbidde over media utterances they claim he made following the points deduction.
“We had consultations and agreed that Mbidde should come and defend himself since he has presented his case to you (media) mostly and not us,” Musaazi said yesterday. Mbidde, though, maintained his stand saying Fuba are against his club. “They (Fuba technocrats) cannot defeat us on the floor. We shall go the distance with this case. This is unfair,” Mbidde said. If the penalty is upheld upon an appeal hearing next week, Falcons should be pre-occupied with fighting relegation rather than pursuing a play-off appearance.
Falcons (4-5) must fight to dislodge Ndejje Angels (4-5), who occupy fifth place and fourth-placed UCU Canons (5-3), to squeeze into the post-season. Table leaders Warriors (8-1), Miracle Eagles and Power ( both tied on 7-2) look poised to take the top three slots.
Falcons used Kenyan Phillip Alweny against Charging Rhino and Warriors. They will now lose the return fixtures against the two sides by forfeiture as Fuba insist the Kenyan had not been cleared to play by his former side Posta.
“We can win all our second round games,” Falcons star guard Abdullahi Ramadhan said after they rallied to defeat champions Power 79-68 on Sunday night.
That’s exactly what Falcons need to do to avoid missing the postseason for the very first time. “We cannot fail to make the play-offs,” Ramadhan vowed. But before they start the tough journey to the play-offs, Falcons have a boardroom battle on their hands.
The Fuba technical committee has summoned club chairman Denis Mbidde over media utterances they claim he made following the points deduction.
“We had consultations and agreed that Mbidde should come and defend himself since he has presented his case to you (media) mostly and not us,” Musaazi said yesterday. Mbidde, though, maintained his stand saying Fuba are against his club. “They (Fuba technocrats) cannot defeat us on the floor. We shall go the distance with this case. This is unfair,” Mbidde said. If the penalty is upheld upon an appeal hearing next week, Falcons should be pre-occupied with fighting relegation rather than pursuing a play-off appearance.
Falcons (4-5) must fight to dislodge Ndejje Angels (4-5), who occupy fifth place and fourth-placed UCU Canons (5-3), to squeeze into the post-season. Table leaders Warriors (8-1), Miracle Eagles and Power ( both tied on 7-2) look poised to take the top three slots.
UGANDA : Two qualify for NBA entourage
Finally after a three-month search and two-day scouting at YMCA, the Sprite scouting team has selected two players for the NBA entourage. Japeth Muhanguzi from Green Hill Academy and Jonah Otim of Lubiri Secondary School will be part of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and FIBA elite development camp, Basketball without Borders (BWB) Africa, to be held in Johannesburg from September 1-4.
The two stars will leave for South Africa later this month for a seven-day contest where they will face other 58 players from different countries in Africa. Their training in South Africa will be conducted by Glen Rice and Martin McBridge, both retired American professional basketball players, and a sprite scouting team.
“The sky is the limit,” an excited Muhanguzi, who also attempted last year but failed, said. “It is so exciting and I am thankful to the NBA scouting team. We are going out and we have to work very hard.”
The two stars will leave for South Africa later this month for a seven-day contest where they will face other 58 players from different countries in Africa. Their training in South Africa will be conducted by Glen Rice and Martin McBridge, both retired American professional basketball players, and a sprite scouting team.
“The sky is the limit,” an excited Muhanguzi, who also attempted last year but failed, said. “It is so exciting and I am thankful to the NBA scouting team. We are going out and we have to work very hard.”
RWANDA : Hoops battle Cote d’Iviore for quarterfinal berth
Fiba Afro basket Championship
Last 16, today
Rwanda vs Cote d’Ivoire 11.30a.m
Tunisia vs South Africa
Senegal vs Madagascar
Mali vs Morocco
The national men’s basketball team takes Cote d’Ivoire on the second day of the round of 16 for a place in the quarter-finals of the ongoing 26th FIBA Africa Championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Rwanda, who lost their first two games before winning the last group game, will have their hands full against the two-time African champions.
Vaceslav Kavedzija’s side reached the knock out stage after edging out Togo 87-67. The Hoops won the first three quarters by 27-8, 24-10, 21-23 and lost the last quarter 15-26.
Herbert Gasana led the floor with 19 points, 9 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steal, forward Robert Thomson contributed 18 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assist and 2 steal with Bradley Cameron grabbing a double of 13 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals to earn Rwanda its first win of the championship.
The victory earned Rwanda third spot in Group D with 4 points despite earlier losses to Central African Republic and Tunisia.
Cote d’Ivoire finished second in Group C with four points after recording a win over South Africa and two losses over Cameroon and Egypt respectively.
In other matches scheduled to be played today; Tunisia play South Africa; Senegal take on hosts Madagascar and Mali will complete the day’s action with a date against Morocco.
The tournament serves as a qualifying championship for teams to participate in the quadrennial Fiba World championship and the Olympic basketball tournament in London next year.
21 August 2011
UGANDA : Falcons live to die another day
The most successful club in Ugandan basketball remains on the brink of relegation following a points deduction by local basketball body Fuba.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
But, a win over champions Power, coupled with their vow to overturn Fuba’s decision, has reinvigorated the side, writes Felix Eupal
It’s been a trying past few weeks for the side; having lost John Ssimbwa – the club founder – earlier in the season, the club struggled for form and lost to Kyambogo Warriors and Miracle Eagles not to mention UCU Canons. To add insult to injury, Fuba docked them seven points for allegedly fielding an illegal player in Kenyan Phillip Amenyi.
And while 7UpFalcons president Dennis Mbidde insists he will challenge the decision, claiming Ameni played under protest before his former employers Kenyan side KCB confirmed he had been released, Fuba’s technical committee chairman William Musaazi maintains it was within the constitution to penalise Falcons.
Distractions aside, Falcons hired former A1 Challenge coach Hamza Nyambogo and the move paid instant dividends as they saw off Power in a pulsating and morale-boosting 79-68 victory. Mbidde’s chest-thumping at the final whistle says it all.
But despite Nyambogo doing the simple things right that predecessor Sam Obol failed, the fact that relegation is still staring them right in the face cannot even be erased off by the win against Power. With four wins and six losses, Falcons currently lie second from bottom in the 10-team topflight with eleven points. This, if Fuba’s decision stands, is Falcons worst start to a season.
Ameni featured in the loss to Warriors and the win over Charging Rhino but according to the rules, they forfeited the three points gained from the two games plus another possible four points they would have collected in the two second round matches because they will not be allowed to play the same fixtures come the second round.
Battle lines drawn
“Ameni never played as an illegal player,” says Mbidde. “I will do whatever it takes to expose the disorganisation in Fuba even if it means going to courts to have them undo their decision.” Mbidde also cites the game against UCU Canons, in which his player was stopped from playing yet he had already secured his transfer release.
Musaazi, on the other hand, remains unfazed; “this is not a matter of courts of law and there are so many avenues that have to first hear the case like National Council of Sports,” he says.
At the moment, only a miracle can put Falcons in the playoffs because they have to first fight off relegation. Should the two parties fail to reach an agreement, we could be headed for a repeat of 2009 standof when no team was relegated due to the technical committee’s failure to reach a common ground.
UGANDA : Denver boss scouting in Uganda
Kampala
Masai Ujiri, the Denver Nuggets general manager, is in Uganda on a scouting mission. Ujiri is the first African-born general manager for a National Basketball Association (NBA) side.
The Nigerian came alongside Glen Anthony Rice, a retired American professional basketball player and John Manyo Plange, the senior NBA Africa director. Another former NBA player Martin McBride is also part of the contingent.
By press time, the group was selecting two outstanding Ugandan youngsters to be taken to South Africa for a training camp. Chosen from over 50 other players, the two youngsters, will join other Africans in Johannesburg for the September 1-4 development camp organised by Basketball Without Boarders (BWB).
Organised and sponsored by Coca-cola under their sprite brand, the selection trials dubbed Sprite Slam finals, were held last evening at YMCA courts.
Sixteen other promising players will be taken to Nairobi for another training opportunity. “We are happy that we have been given two slots for the Johannesburg camp,” said Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) president Ambrose Tashobya. “It is a great opportunity for players to showcase their skills.”
Uganda has in the past benefited from the BWB arrangement with current star league players like Brian Ssentongo and Enabu brothers Emmanuel and Jimmy taking part in the camp
Masai Ujiri, the Denver Nuggets general manager, is in Uganda on a scouting mission. Ujiri is the first African-born general manager for a National Basketball Association (NBA) side.
The Nigerian came alongside Glen Anthony Rice, a retired American professional basketball player and John Manyo Plange, the senior NBA Africa director. Another former NBA player Martin McBride is also part of the contingent.
By press time, the group was selecting two outstanding Ugandan youngsters to be taken to South Africa for a training camp. Chosen from over 50 other players, the two youngsters, will join other Africans in Johannesburg for the September 1-4 development camp organised by Basketball Without Boarders (BWB).
Organised and sponsored by Coca-cola under their sprite brand, the selection trials dubbed Sprite Slam finals, were held last evening at YMCA courts.
Sixteen other promising players will be taken to Nairobi for another training opportunity. “We are happy that we have been given two slots for the Johannesburg camp,” said Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) president Ambrose Tashobya. “It is a great opportunity for players to showcase their skills.”
Uganda has in the past benefited from the BWB arrangement with current star league players like Brian Ssentongo and Enabu brothers Emmanuel and Jimmy taking part in the camp
UGANDA : Owili shines in All-Star
WANDEGEYA.
He had shown in recent weeks that he could become the next darling of the crowds that throng YMCA court every week.
On Friday night, UCU Canons’ Desmond Owili lit up the annual Sprite All-Star Gala scoring a game-high 20 points. All his points were slam dunks, mostly double-handed, as the league newcomer led Coca Cola to a 104-86 rout of Sprite in the late game.
Fans had to wait till after mid-night to complete the full dose of what Owili and his teammate Richard Omondi (17) were capable of when found in space under the hoop. Unluckily, it wasn’t the most thrilling game as Sudi Ulanga underlined the dominance of coach Nick Natuhereza’s side with 19 points.
Sprite never recovered from a slow start even if Stephen Omony fetched 15 points. Winning, though, was never the big deal in the fun event used to mark the mid-season break.
He had shown in recent weeks that he could become the next darling of the crowds that throng YMCA court every week.
On Friday night, UCU Canons’ Desmond Owili lit up the annual Sprite All-Star Gala scoring a game-high 20 points. All his points were slam dunks, mostly double-handed, as the league newcomer led Coca Cola to a 104-86 rout of Sprite in the late game.
Fans had to wait till after mid-night to complete the full dose of what Owili and his teammate Richard Omondi (17) were capable of when found in space under the hoop. Unluckily, it wasn’t the most thrilling game as Sudi Ulanga underlined the dominance of coach Nick Natuhereza’s side with 19 points.
Sprite never recovered from a slow start even if Stephen Omony fetched 15 points. Winning, though, was never the big deal in the fun event used to mark the mid-season break.
RWANDA : Tunisia too good for Rwanda
Tunisia 69-37 Rwanda
CAR 82-57 Togo
CHAD 57-89 Morocco
RWANDA’s rustiness was on full display last evening as they succumbed to a disappointing 37-69 defeat at the hands of Tunisia in their second Group D game.
The North Africans proved that their third place finish two years ago in Libya was no fluke, sweeping all four quarters (10-09, 17-07, 19-09 and 23-13).
Tunisia’s shooting guard Macram Romdhave led the floor with 20 points and six rebounds while Mohamed Hadidane and Amine Rzig weighed in with 10 points each. Kami Kabange top scored for Rwanda with 12 points.
The win left Tunisia joint-top with Central African Republic (CAR) on four points. CAR had earlier thrashed Togo 82-57 thanks to Max Kouguere’s 24 points. William Kossangue had 14 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals while Guy Kodio-Sitchi contributed 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and one assist.
This means Monday’s clash between Tunisia and CAR will determine who finishes top in the group.
CAR 82-57 Togo
CHAD 57-89 Morocco
RWANDA’s rustiness was on full display last evening as they succumbed to a disappointing 37-69 defeat at the hands of Tunisia in their second Group D game.
The North Africans proved that their third place finish two years ago in Libya was no fluke, sweeping all four quarters (10-09, 17-07, 19-09 and 23-13).
Tunisia’s shooting guard Macram Romdhave led the floor with 20 points and six rebounds while Mohamed Hadidane and Amine Rzig weighed in with 10 points each. Kami Kabange top scored for Rwanda with 12 points.
The win left Tunisia joint-top with Central African Republic (CAR) on four points. CAR had earlier thrashed Togo 82-57 thanks to Max Kouguere’s 24 points. William Kossangue had 14 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals while Guy Kodio-Sitchi contributed 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and one assist.
This means Monday’s clash between Tunisia and CAR will determine who finishes top in the group.
19 August 2011
UGANDA : Ikong v Kasewu in All-Star gala
The Fuba technical committee have paired three potential slam dunk champions on the same team for today’s Sprite All-Star gala at YMCA Court. Joseph Ikong, champion of the dunking contest two years ago before being dethroned by Alex Mugoya, Richard Omondi and Desmond Owili are all on the team branded as Coca-cola.
Omondi, a 7UP Falcons star, thrilled many when And1, an American StreetBall team of entertainers, visited earlier this year, whereas UCU Canons’ Owili completes the puzzle. However, the other team, Sprite, looks stronger on paper with the Kyambogo Warriors’ triad of Ronnie Kasewu, Ivan Enabu and MVP contender Eric Malinga.
This team, coached by Nkumba Marines’ Timothy Odeke and Warriors Mandy Juruni, also has the Falcons’ duo of Abdullahi Ramadhan Philip Alweny plus Stephen Omony of Miracle Eagles. Today’s annual All-Star event starting at 5pm pits the cream of the league against each other to mark the mid-season break before the second round starts on August 26.
Before that clash, there is a women’s game in which KCC Leopards’ Flavia Oketcho will team up with former Lady Canons teammates Lorraine Akinyi and Maureen Amoding. There will be a dunking, three-point and free-throw shooting contests.
15 August 2011
UGANDA : Falcons upstage Power
Sunday results - Fuba League
M: Falcons 79-68 Power
W: KCC 67-62 UCU
Amazon 45-56 Nabisunsa
Division Two
Stormers 71-70 Rocks
Division Three
City Oil 70-69 Ssaku
Hamza Nyambogo was not even supposed to take charge of the 7UP Falcons until the start of the MTN-Fuba League second round on August 26.
He came one game early on Sunday night and the irresistible Falcons scored 24 unanswered points to turn a 12-point deficit into a 79-68 victory over champions DMark Power.
They looked galvanised by the new coach’s ability to rotate stars Abdullahi Ramadhan, Richard Omondi and the now-cleared forward Philip Alweny.
Falcons took the final two periods 20-18 and 32-12 as their relegation fight gathered steam to improve to 4-5 whereas the champions fell to 7-2.
When Isaac Afidra (18) sunk a long three at the start of the fourth quarter 59-47, Falcons looked buried at a quiet YMCA court which had a reasonable crowd. They weren’t!
Alweny’s energy brought a game-high 26 points with Dulah scoring 13 points and 14 assists. Richard Omondi added 19 points despite a slow start.
M: Falcons 79-68 Power
W: KCC 67-62 UCU
Amazon 45-56 Nabisunsa
Division Two
Stormers 71-70 Rocks
Division Three
City Oil 70-69 Ssaku
Hamza Nyambogo was not even supposed to take charge of the 7UP Falcons until the start of the MTN-Fuba League second round on August 26.
He came one game early on Sunday night and the irresistible Falcons scored 24 unanswered points to turn a 12-point deficit into a 79-68 victory over champions DMark Power.
They looked galvanised by the new coach’s ability to rotate stars Abdullahi Ramadhan, Richard Omondi and the now-cleared forward Philip Alweny.
Falcons took the final two periods 20-18 and 32-12 as their relegation fight gathered steam to improve to 4-5 whereas the champions fell to 7-2.
When Isaac Afidra (18) sunk a long three at the start of the fourth quarter 59-47, Falcons looked buried at a quiet YMCA court which had a reasonable crowd. They weren’t!
Alweny’s energy brought a game-high 26 points with Dulah scoring 13 points and 14 assists. Richard Omondi added 19 points despite a slow start.
UGANDA : Omony hot hand punishes Angles
R esults
M: Ndejje 56-81 Miracle
W: A1 41-54 Stormers
Division 2
Shooters 68-52 Bush Court
Rez Life 73-76 Vegetarian
Division 3
Jackets 57-65 Jammers
TLC 35-43 Livingstone
Share This Story
Share On Saturday night, Ndejje University Angels put up arguably their worst performance in the MTN-Fuba League this season.
On the other hand, it could also be the best game Stephen Omony has had this term. He feasted on everything Ndejje did wrong. Omony also showed his own brilliance to score 28 points and 12 rebounds as Miracle Eagles flattened Ndejje 81-56 at YMCA court.
When they touched him, he made all seven shots on the charity line and was even better from further away making five out five from downtown. “I was shooting normal, nothing spectacular. Everything fell in place for me and the team,” a collected Omony said.
Miracle, now 7-2, are firmly on course for a maiden play-offs appearance. “So far, we have worked hard to get here but cannot be satisfied. We can do better,” Omony added. Ndejje coach Walker Obedi cut a disconsolate figure as his side struggled without star guard Cyrus Kiviri.
They scored only 10 of 22 on the line, committed 27 turnovers and lost on the inside where Miracle dominated the boards 43-32.
This was not a contest as Ndejje, who beat Miracle in a friendly earlier, fell to 4-5 in the season so far.
M: Ndejje 56-81 Miracle
W: A1 41-54 Stormers
Division 2
Shooters 68-52 Bush Court
Rez Life 73-76 Vegetarian
Division 3
Jackets 57-65 Jammers
TLC 35-43 Livingstone
Share This Story
Share On Saturday night, Ndejje University Angels put up arguably their worst performance in the MTN-Fuba League this season.
On the other hand, it could also be the best game Stephen Omony has had this term. He feasted on everything Ndejje did wrong. Omony also showed his own brilliance to score 28 points and 12 rebounds as Miracle Eagles flattened Ndejje 81-56 at YMCA court.
When they touched him, he made all seven shots on the charity line and was even better from further away making five out five from downtown. “I was shooting normal, nothing spectacular. Everything fell in place for me and the team,” a collected Omony said.
Miracle, now 7-2, are firmly on course for a maiden play-offs appearance. “So far, we have worked hard to get here but cannot be satisfied. We can do better,” Omony added. Ndejje coach Walker Obedi cut a disconsolate figure as his side struggled without star guard Cyrus Kiviri.
They scored only 10 of 22 on the line, committed 27 turnovers and lost on the inside where Miracle dominated the boards 43-32.
This was not a contest as Ndejje, who beat Miracle in a friendly earlier, fell to 4-5 in the season so far.
RWANDA : Hoops ready for Madagascar test
AFTER Saturday’s disappointment, the national men’s basketball side hopes to get into competition mood when they play Madagascar this afternoon.
Rwanda had hoped to play African champions Angola on Saturday but the latter’s flight to Madagascar was delayed much to the frustration of Rwanda’s head coach Vaceslav Kavedzija.
The 26th edition of the Fiba Africa championship (Afrobasket) gets underway this Wednesday in Antananarivo city and Rwanda’s delegation head Jean Lucien Mugabo believes today’s game is good for the players.
“Saturday was a disappointment but we hope to get the boys in competition mood tomorrow,” Mugabo said.
Rwanda is drawn in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central African Republic (CAR). Hosts Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali make up Group A while Group B pits Angola against Senegal, Morocco and Chad.
Group C consists of Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Cameroon and Egypt.
The top four teams will automatically qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championships while the winner will secure a ticket to next year’s London Olympic Games.
13 August 2011
UGANDA : Falcons aim to revive old rivalry
Today at YMCA
M: Falcons v Power (7.30pm)
W: KCC v UCU (5.30pm)
Amazon v Nabisunsa (1.30pm)
Division Two
Stormers v MBC (3.30pm)
Division Three
City Oil v Ssaku (11.30am)
Emperors v Planets (9.30am)
In any other MTN-Fuba League season preceding the rise of Kyambogo Warriors, there wouldn’t have a better way to wrap up the first round than a clash between Falcons and Power. A contrasting season for the two giants who share 10 titles and had traditionally been the biggest rivals makes their clash at YMCA court today even more important especially for Falcons.
Fighting relegation is a reality following the deduction of points for using forward Philip Alweny in two games as they have slid to a record of 3-5. And they looked out of depth in the 80-69 loss to UCU Canons without him whereas Power hasn’t been impressive on the floor but at 7-1, they don’t have too many complaints.
Falcons coach Sam Obol is livid about the influence Alweny brings if easily found by Abdullahi Ramadhan and Richard Osano Omondi.
“Power is a tough team but we still have to play with or without Alweny. Though he is a good player but we will miss him until he is cleared,” said Obol. After tossing UCU 90-78, Isaac Afidra is hopeful they can do even more principally with the return to form of Joseph Ikong and resurrection of the quick transition.
“We are ready to flirt with Falcons,” said Afidra. Perhaps there is even an even bigger game in the women’s league when KCC Leopards and UCU Lady Canons face-off earlier.
Both, outright front runners for the title currently held by the latter, are unbeaten. It’s the return of Flavia Oketcho from maternity that enhanced the belief of KCC.
12 August 2011
UGANDA : Eagles game called off
Wednesday result
Emperors 75- 65 Biston
TLC walked over UPDF
Tomorrow at YMCA
M: Miracle v Ndejje (7.30 pm)
W: A1 v Stormers (5.30pm)
Division 2
Rez-Life v Veg (3.30pm)
Division 3
Jackets v Jammers (1.30pm)
Shooters v B.Court (11.30am)
Livingstone v TLC (9.30am)
At Makerere
St Michael v Kings (3.30pm)
W:Cubs v Gladiators (1pm)
The MTN-Fuba League game between Miracle Eagles and and Ndejje University Angles scheduled for today has been pushed to tomorrow.
The fixture change has been prompted by the unavailability of YMCA court, which is booked for other activities by the Wandegeya-based institution.
“YMCA is holding its end of term activities,” Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (Fuba) technical committee secretary Donnan Byabazaire said yesterday. “There is nothing we can do about the school event.”
Women sides Makerere Cubs and Gladiators were also meant to meet today but the game has been moved to tomorrow.
Emperors 75- 65 Biston
TLC walked over UPDF
Tomorrow at YMCA
M: Miracle v Ndejje (7.30 pm)
W: A1 v Stormers (5.30pm)
Division 2
Rez-Life v Veg (3.30pm)
Division 3
Jackets v Jammers (1.30pm)
Shooters v B.Court (11.30am)
Livingstone v TLC (9.30am)
At Makerere
St Michael v Kings (3.30pm)
W:Cubs v Gladiators (1pm)
The MTN-Fuba League game between Miracle Eagles and and Ndejje University Angles scheduled for today has been pushed to tomorrow.
The fixture change has been prompted by the unavailability of YMCA court, which is booked for other activities by the Wandegeya-based institution.
“YMCA is holding its end of term activities,” Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (Fuba) technical committee secretary Donnan Byabazaire said yesterday. “There is nothing we can do about the school event.”
Women sides Makerere Cubs and Gladiators were also meant to meet today but the game has been moved to tomorrow.
RWANDA : Hoops secure Angola friendly
VACESLAV Kavedzija and his guns have been craving for a strong opponent ahead of the 26th edition of the Fiba Africa championship in Antananarivo city in Madagascar and now their prayers have been answered.
Rwanda will play African champions Angola in a build-up match tomorrow and Kavedzija says that the timing could not be better.
“Angola are the defending champions and definitely the team to beat in the competition so I believe this is a good test for the team,” he said.
Angola are fresh from an international tournament in Guangzhou, China were they finished third after losing to the hosts 54-62.
Rwanda is in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central African Republic (CAR). Hosts Madagascar are drawn in group A alongside Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali; Group B pits Angola against Senegal, Morocco and Chad while group C consists of Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Cameroon and Egypt.
Rwanda qualified for the tournament after clinching the Zone V championship title in February.
Rwanda will play African champions Angola in a build-up match tomorrow and Kavedzija says that the timing could not be better.
“Angola are the defending champions and definitely the team to beat in the competition so I believe this is a good test for the team,” he said.
Angola are fresh from an international tournament in Guangzhou, China were they finished third after losing to the hosts 54-62.
Rwanda is in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central African Republic (CAR). Hosts Madagascar are drawn in group A alongside Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali; Group B pits Angola against Senegal, Morocco and Chad while group C consists of Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Cameroon and Egypt.
Rwanda qualified for the tournament after clinching the Zone V championship title in February.
11 August 2011
BOTSWANA : UB Relics to host All-Star showdown
NELSON DIRENG
Two star-studded teams, selected by fans and coaches are set to clash in a basketball tournament aptly termed All-Star Weekend scheduled for August 19-20.
University of Botswana side, Relics has organised the tournament to take place at the UB courts. Fans chose their team, Fans' Favourite through a Facebook page titled Clubs' Player of the Year 2011.
The other team, the Coaches' Choice comprised players handpicked by coaches and team managers based on performances in the first round of the nation league that ended last month.
Relics chairperson Thandi Tumelo said the event would be the first of its kind locally. She expects a large turnout of spectators, as two teams consisting of select players from 13 male league clubs will be competing. The All Star showdown takes place on August 20 as the main attraction, while a curtain raiser, expected to be a game among interested spectators, would be played on August 19.
Tumelo said the purpose of the tournament is to showcase basketball to the UB community. She said Relics found it necessary to promote basketball as most league games are played at the UB courts.
She said Relics also want to provide some entertainment for UB students who have limited recreational activities within the campus. She however said the competition is not limited to UB students but to anyone interested.
'Participation is free but those who are lucky stand a chance of walking away with P1,000 or more from the various competitions that will be held,' she said.
Some of the competitions include ankle breakers, shootouts and street-ball. Tumelo said they have decided to incorporate hip-hop music to the show as basketball and hip-hop have a strong history.
She said the other purpose of the festival is to keep BBA league players active and fit during the mid-season break. Meanwhile, Relics have partnered with the Youth Against AIDS, Clubs Entertainment Basketball and Beemark Sports Gear to sponsor the event.
Tumelo said in future they would like some sponsors to jump on board as the event offers a platform to reach out to the youth.
Teams
Fans Favourite:
Mbaki Pitso, Michael Banda, Mothusi Phokoje (Troopers), Peter Bashe, Keletso Makgethe, James Kalebwe (Police), Tony Akpata (NIIT), Thuto Shai (Dolphins), Chinouya Chinouya, Brian Mwansa (Flames), Peter Ubakar (Spartans), Israel Mphato (BDF).
Coaches Choice:
Robert 'Bendo' Mosalakatane, Clive Phiri (Spartans), Mmoloki Segaetsho, Veil Mchunu (Flames), Ratanang Tsayang (Troopers), Churchill Burrows (Dolphins), Junior Kaiser (Bullets), Oscar Gobusamang (Police), Ketlwaelo Rahube (Drillers), Mpho Seretse (Splinters), David Adom (Cadets) and Collen Semele (Eagles).
Two star-studded teams, selected by fans and coaches are set to clash in a basketball tournament aptly termed All-Star Weekend scheduled for August 19-20.
University of Botswana side, Relics has organised the tournament to take place at the UB courts. Fans chose their team, Fans' Favourite through a Facebook page titled Clubs' Player of the Year 2011.
The other team, the Coaches' Choice comprised players handpicked by coaches and team managers based on performances in the first round of the nation league that ended last month.
Relics chairperson Thandi Tumelo said the event would be the first of its kind locally. She expects a large turnout of spectators, as two teams consisting of select players from 13 male league clubs will be competing. The All Star showdown takes place on August 20 as the main attraction, while a curtain raiser, expected to be a game among interested spectators, would be played on August 19.
Tumelo said the purpose of the tournament is to showcase basketball to the UB community. She said Relics found it necessary to promote basketball as most league games are played at the UB courts.
She said Relics also want to provide some entertainment for UB students who have limited recreational activities within the campus. She however said the competition is not limited to UB students but to anyone interested.
'Participation is free but those who are lucky stand a chance of walking away with P1,000 or more from the various competitions that will be held,' she said.
Some of the competitions include ankle breakers, shootouts and street-ball. Tumelo said they have decided to incorporate hip-hop music to the show as basketball and hip-hop have a strong history.
She said the other purpose of the festival is to keep BBA league players active and fit during the mid-season break. Meanwhile, Relics have partnered with the Youth Against AIDS, Clubs Entertainment Basketball and Beemark Sports Gear to sponsor the event.
Tumelo said in future they would like some sponsors to jump on board as the event offers a platform to reach out to the youth.
Teams
Fans Favourite:
Mbaki Pitso, Michael Banda, Mothusi Phokoje (Troopers), Peter Bashe, Keletso Makgethe, James Kalebwe (Police), Tony Akpata (NIIT), Thuto Shai (Dolphins), Chinouya Chinouya, Brian Mwansa (Flames), Peter Ubakar (Spartans), Israel Mphato (BDF).
Coaches Choice:
Robert 'Bendo' Mosalakatane, Clive Phiri (Spartans), Mmoloki Segaetsho, Veil Mchunu (Flames), Ratanang Tsayang (Troopers), Churchill Burrows (Dolphins), Junior Kaiser (Bullets), Oscar Gobusamang (Police), Ketlwaelo Rahube (Drillers), Mpho Seretse (Splinters), David Adom (Cadets) and Collen Semele (Eagles).
UGANDA : Livingstone still keen on playoff
Today: FUBA League
Division 3: Men
Biston v Livingstone
UPDF v TLC
Livingstone will look to draw closer into the playoff picture when they face free-falling Biston Planet in the FUBA men’s division three today at YMCA. Livingstone, who are 12th, stunned top-of-the table Kampala University 68-53 during the weekend. A win today would take them to 10th position. Biston have not won a game so far this season.
Division 3: Men
Biston v Livingstone
UPDF v TLC
Livingstone will look to draw closer into the playoff picture when they face free-falling Biston Planet in the FUBA men’s division three today at YMCA. Livingstone, who are 12th, stunned top-of-the table Kampala University 68-53 during the weekend. A win today would take them to 10th position. Biston have not won a game so far this season.
SEYCHELLES : Sylla unstoppable as Seychelles topple champions
On form Abdel Sylla yesterday scored 27 points to steer Seychelles past defending champions Reunion on a 66-62 score at the Palais des Sports to qualify for the final on Friday.
In the final, Seychelles will play against Mayotte who qualified after their semifinal opponents Madagascar decided not to play after Charles Ramsdell, who only acquired Malagasy citizenship in early August, was once again not allowed to take part in the game.
The local selection started yesterday’s encounter on a rather slow tempo and trailed 0-8 in the first two minutes of the match, before Sylla made it 5-10. A trey from captain Cyril Agrippine and another two-pointer from Amadou Sylla tied the match at 10-10.The game then turned into a give and take affair.
The score remained close all throughout the first quarter which ended 19-17 in favour of Reunion.
The two teams strengthened their defence in the second quarter, but the cheers of the local supporters inside the packed arena boosted the home team who had a slight two-point lead – 29-27 – at half-time.
In the third quarter, Seychelles came out stronger as Neddy ‘Oye’ Fanchette and Robert Léon helped Sylla in offence and defence, bringing their point advantage to eight – 51-43.
Reunion fought back in the last period of the match, cutting the deficit to one point ¬– 53-52– before taking the lead at 57-54.
After a time-out by coach Dominique Gueret, Seychelles stepped up their game and Reggie Ah-kong gave them the lead at 59-57. Seychelles held on to the lead, ending the match with a four-point advantage – 66-62.
Man-of-the-match Abdel Sylla dedicated the win to the loyal fans. “When you have a crowd like this backing you up, you cannot afford to let them down and winning is a must,” he said.
He also congratulated his team mates who never gave up, even when the team trailed, as well as their opponents for the good match.
“The Almighty God was with us today and we must thank Him,” added the 2.05m centre.
Unlike their male compatriots, the women’s team will play the third-place match against Mauritius following their heavy 53-93 loss against defending champions Madagascar yesterday. The Seychelles selection lost all four quarters 16-24, 11-21, 12-21 and 14-27
Head coach Phillip Arissol said he is satisfied with his team’s defence, despite their poor offence.
“We managed to contain our opponents defensively, but we missed too many easy baskets,” he explained.
“For the third place match, we are going all out to at least win something on home soil,” he added.
In the other semifinal match, Reunion defeated Mauritius 85-44.
R. D.
RWANDA : Hoops off to Madagascar
THE men’s national basketball team left for Madagascar this morning to compete in the 26th edition of the Fiba Africa Championships scheduled to begin on August 17.
The team left aboard Kenya airways.
Before departure, head coach Vaceslav Kavedzija told Times Sport that he expects a strong performance from his lads.
“Our goal is to qualify for the Olympic Games in London. It is never easy but we shall fight to the end,” he said.
“The beauty of this lot is that they are determined and focused,” Kavedzija added.
Rwanda is in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central African Republic (CAR). Hosts Madagascar are drawn in group A alongside Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali; defending champions Angola, Chad, Morocco and Senegal are in Group B while group C pits Ivory Coast against South Africa, Cameroon and Egypt.
The winner will automatically secure a ticket to London come 2012.
Rwanda qualified for the tournament after lifting the Zone V title back in February.
National team: Aristide Mugabe, Jean Louis Habineza, Kami Kabange, Ellis Kayijuka, Cameron Bradley, Hamza Ruhezamihigo, Robert Thomson, Kenneth Gasana, Daniel Manzi, Aboubacar Barame , Mathieu Miller and Olivier Muhizi.
The team left aboard Kenya airways.
Before departure, head coach Vaceslav Kavedzija told Times Sport that he expects a strong performance from his lads.
“Our goal is to qualify for the Olympic Games in London. It is never easy but we shall fight to the end,” he said.
“The beauty of this lot is that they are determined and focused,” Kavedzija added.
Rwanda is in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central African Republic (CAR). Hosts Madagascar are drawn in group A alongside Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali; defending champions Angola, Chad, Morocco and Senegal are in Group B while group C pits Ivory Coast against South Africa, Cameroon and Egypt.
The winner will automatically secure a ticket to London come 2012.
Rwanda qualified for the tournament after lifting the Zone V title back in February.
National team: Aristide Mugabe, Jean Louis Habineza, Kami Kabange, Ellis Kayijuka, Cameron Bradley, Hamza Ruhezamihigo, Robert Thomson, Kenneth Gasana, Daniel Manzi, Aboubacar Barame , Mathieu Miller and Olivier Muhizi.
10 August 2011
NIGERIA : Nigeria nailed 21 points in each quarter to edge the Dutch team
Nigeria NT-Netherlands NT 84:66
Nigerian National team overcame Netherlands in London. The African representatives grabbed the lead from the very beginning and finished with 84:66 win. Tonight that will face United Kingdom for the top place.
Nigeria took the lead in the start of the opening period and never trailed in the game. They took 21:10 after the first 10 minutes and scored the same number of points in all the other quarters. The second quarter saw 21-14 as the board showed 42:24 at the halftime. Nigeria added 21-19 in the third quarter, while the European team won the last stanza 23-21.
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) top-scored for the winners with 30 points and Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.) added 18. Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) ended up with 13 points, while Jayson Obazuaye (188-G-84, college: Colorado) scored 8. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) posted 10. Jessey Voorn (193-G-90, agency: Court Side) delivered 9, whilst Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan and Dimeo van der Horst had 6 apiece.
Nigeria NT: Derrick Obasohan 30, Ime Udoka 18, Oyedeji Olumide 13, Jayson Obazuaye 8
Netherlands NT: Robin Smeulders 20, Stefan Wessels 10, Jessey Voorn 9, Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan 6, Dimeo van der Horst 6, Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio) 5
Nigerian National team overcame Netherlands in London. The African representatives grabbed the lead from the very beginning and finished with 84:66 win. Tonight that will face United Kingdom for the top place.
Nigeria took the lead in the start of the opening period and never trailed in the game. They took 21:10 after the first 10 minutes and scored the same number of points in all the other quarters. The second quarter saw 21-14 as the board showed 42:24 at the halftime. Nigeria added 21-19 in the third quarter, while the European team won the last stanza 23-21.
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) top-scored for the winners with 30 points and Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.) added 18. Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) ended up with 13 points, while Jayson Obazuaye (188-G-84, college: Colorado) scored 8. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) posted 10. Jessey Voorn (193-G-90, agency: Court Side) delivered 9, whilst Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan and Dimeo van der Horst had 6 apiece.
Nigeria NT: Derrick Obasohan 30, Ime Udoka 18, Oyedeji Olumide 13, Jayson Obazuaye 8
Netherlands NT: Robin Smeulders 20, Stefan Wessels 10, Jessey Voorn 9, Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan 6, Dimeo van der Horst 6, Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio) 5
09 August 2011
UGANDA : UCU set stage for KCC clash
Kampala
Weekend results
W: Nabisunsa 46-82 UCU
Division Three
Planets 36-71 Bush Court
Crane 63-51 UPDF
Stone 68-51 K’la Univ.
Sharing 65-38 Sky Jammers
City Oil 95-52 Ssaku
Shooters 65-39 Air Force
Bush Court 79-82 K’la Univ.
Sky Jam. 49-12 Emperors
Sharing 49-70 Shooters
UCU Lady Canons and KCC Leopards, the two unbeaten giants in the women’s MTN-Fuba League, will go into next Sunday’s clash on a high after the latter’s 82-46 rout of Nabisunsa on Sunday night at YMCA court in Wandegeya.
In the pick of the weekend games, the champions dominated all four quarters 21-10, 19-3, 18-12 and 24-21 against the school side. Like has been for most of the season, Lorraine Akinyi and Lyn Nalunkuma led UCU with 13 and 10 points and also equally shared 16 rebounds. It was the reigning MVP Maureen Amoding who delighted coach Dare Sculy most with 10 points.
That return was her highest tally this season. All these left YMCA court firmly in the shadow of Nabisunsa’s Joy Chemutai, who finished with a game-high 18 points and six boards.
Weekend results
W: Nabisunsa 46-82 UCU
Division Three
Planets 36-71 Bush Court
Crane 63-51 UPDF
Stone 68-51 K’la Univ.
Sharing 65-38 Sky Jammers
City Oil 95-52 Ssaku
Shooters 65-39 Air Force
Bush Court 79-82 K’la Univ.
Sky Jam. 49-12 Emperors
Sharing 49-70 Shooters
UCU Lady Canons and KCC Leopards, the two unbeaten giants in the women’s MTN-Fuba League, will go into next Sunday’s clash on a high after the latter’s 82-46 rout of Nabisunsa on Sunday night at YMCA court in Wandegeya.
In the pick of the weekend games, the champions dominated all four quarters 21-10, 19-3, 18-12 and 24-21 against the school side. Like has been for most of the season, Lorraine Akinyi and Lyn Nalunkuma led UCU with 13 and 10 points and also equally shared 16 rebounds. It was the reigning MVP Maureen Amoding who delighted coach Dare Sculy most with 10 points.
That return was her highest tally this season. All these left YMCA court firmly in the shadow of Nabisunsa’s Joy Chemutai, who finished with a game-high 18 points and six boards.
RWANDA : Hoops boosted with Hamza’s arrival
The men’s basketball team has been boosted with the arrival of Canada based forward Hamza Ruhezamihigo ahead of the 26th FIBA Africa championship set for August 17-28 in Madagascar.
Ruhezamihigo arrived in the country over the weekend and did yesterday’s gym work with the rest of his colleagues before undergoing normal drills at Amahoro indoor stadium with head coach Vaceslav Kavedzija.
Kavedzija, who is taking his team into final preparations, has been assured of the availability of US based Matthew Miller, who is due to arrive in the country tomorrow.
Angola’s Isom Cedric is the only player, who has been excluded in Kavedzija’s plans since the player is not responding to persistent calls.
The team is expected to head to Madagascar over the weekend. Rwanda is placed in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central Africa.
Other teams which will compete in Madagascar tournament include Tunisia, Cameroon, Nigeria, Togo, Senegal, Mali, and Morocco, Central Africa republic, Chad, Mozambique, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, South Africa and defending champions Angola.
Rwanda qualified for the Games after clinching the Zone V championship title in February. To lift the title, Rwanda beat Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda at Amahoro indoor courts.
Hoops team in camp
Aristide Mugabe (Espoir), Jean Louis Habineza (Espoir), Pascal Karekezi (Espoir), Kabange Kami (APR), Rafiki Mohammed (APR), Christophe Masabo (APR), Karim Nkusi (CSK), Aboubacar Barame ( CSK), Fiston Muhire (KBC), Ellis Kayijuka (KBC), Amandin Rutayisire (KBC), Cameron Bradley (USA)
Others are; Hamza Ruhezamihigo (Canada), Jonathan Gasirabo (Canada), Robert Thomson (Romania), Kenneth Gasana (USA), Manga Kimbuy (DRC), Gael Somayire ( USA) and Daniel Rugamba (USA).
Ruhezamihigo arrived in the country over the weekend and did yesterday’s gym work with the rest of his colleagues before undergoing normal drills at Amahoro indoor stadium with head coach Vaceslav Kavedzija.
Kavedzija, who is taking his team into final preparations, has been assured of the availability of US based Matthew Miller, who is due to arrive in the country tomorrow.
Angola’s Isom Cedric is the only player, who has been excluded in Kavedzija’s plans since the player is not responding to persistent calls.
The team is expected to head to Madagascar over the weekend. Rwanda is placed in group D alongside Tunisia, Togo and Central Africa.
Other teams which will compete in Madagascar tournament include Tunisia, Cameroon, Nigeria, Togo, Senegal, Mali, and Morocco, Central Africa republic, Chad, Mozambique, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, South Africa and defending champions Angola.
Rwanda qualified for the Games after clinching the Zone V championship title in February. To lift the title, Rwanda beat Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda at Amahoro indoor courts.
Hoops team in camp
Aristide Mugabe (Espoir), Jean Louis Habineza (Espoir), Pascal Karekezi (Espoir), Kabange Kami (APR), Rafiki Mohammed (APR), Christophe Masabo (APR), Karim Nkusi (CSK), Aboubacar Barame ( CSK), Fiston Muhire (KBC), Ellis Kayijuka (KBC), Amandin Rutayisire (KBC), Cameron Bradley (USA)
Others are; Hamza Ruhezamihigo (Canada), Jonathan Gasirabo (Canada), Robert Thomson (Romania), Kenneth Gasana (USA), Manga Kimbuy (DRC), Gael Somayire ( USA) and Daniel Rugamba (USA).
07 August 2011
KENYA : Ouma expected in camp as team gets ready for Maputo
By SAMMY KITULA
Former US-based star Rose Ouma arrives in Nairobi on Wednesday to beef up the national women’s basketball team ahead of the All Africa Games to be held in Mozambique from September 2.
Assistant team coach, Philip Onyango, who has been taking the players through their paces at the Nyayo National Stadium in the absence of coach Cliff Owuor, said the arrival of Ouma will be a big boost to the squad since she was part of the Kenya team for the last edition of the All Africa Games in Algeria in 2007.
The head coach was expected back in the country from Rwanda Friday evening.
Also expected in camp on Saturday is star forward Purity Odhiambo, who is a student at Uganda Christian University as the team looks to add punch to their front court.
According to Onyango, who also coaches Mombasa Sports Club and former regional and national schools basketball side Shimba Hills, the players are responding well to training and are determined to cause an upset in Maputo.
Players committed
“This is the best ever team I have handled in my coaching career. The ladies are disciplined and receptive, making our work easier.
“If they continue like this, we stand to be in the medal bracket”, the coach said. “It will be difficult to name the final 12 because every player is working hard on the court and ready to make the trip.”
The training camp was boosted by the arrival of KPA players Salma Akinyi, Brenda Angeshi and Hellen Oketch on Tuesday, while Vilma Achieng’ and Debra Obunga were expected in camp yesterday after completing their examinations.
Players who have been in training include Venessa Wacuka Mwangi (based in Namibia), Silalei Shani, Caroline Achieng, Hilda Indasi, Emma Nyakweba, Maureen Andalia, Linda Alando and Mitchel Otinda.
Others are Grace Wanjiku, Denis Apondi, Faith Owich, Samba Mjomba, Mercy Wanyama and Angela Akoth .
Margaret Wambui and Pamela Sinda could not make it to training due to commitment at their places of work according to the coach.
Former US-based star Rose Ouma arrives in Nairobi on Wednesday to beef up the national women’s basketball team ahead of the All Africa Games to be held in Mozambique from September 2.
Assistant team coach, Philip Onyango, who has been taking the players through their paces at the Nyayo National Stadium in the absence of coach Cliff Owuor, said the arrival of Ouma will be a big boost to the squad since she was part of the Kenya team for the last edition of the All Africa Games in Algeria in 2007.
The head coach was expected back in the country from Rwanda Friday evening.
Also expected in camp on Saturday is star forward Purity Odhiambo, who is a student at Uganda Christian University as the team looks to add punch to their front court.
According to Onyango, who also coaches Mombasa Sports Club and former regional and national schools basketball side Shimba Hills, the players are responding well to training and are determined to cause an upset in Maputo.
Players committed
“This is the best ever team I have handled in my coaching career. The ladies are disciplined and receptive, making our work easier.
“If they continue like this, we stand to be in the medal bracket”, the coach said. “It will be difficult to name the final 12 because every player is working hard on the court and ready to make the trip.”
The training camp was boosted by the arrival of KPA players Salma Akinyi, Brenda Angeshi and Hellen Oketch on Tuesday, while Vilma Achieng’ and Debra Obunga were expected in camp yesterday after completing their examinations.
Players who have been in training include Venessa Wacuka Mwangi (based in Namibia), Silalei Shani, Caroline Achieng, Hilda Indasi, Emma Nyakweba, Maureen Andalia, Linda Alando and Mitchel Otinda.
Others are Grace Wanjiku, Denis Apondi, Faith Owich, Samba Mjomba, Mercy Wanyama and Angela Akoth .
Margaret Wambui and Pamela Sinda could not make it to training due to commitment at their places of work according to the coach.
06 August 2011
UGANDA : Power finally show undoubted mettle
Friday results
M: Power 90-78 UCU Canons
W: KIU 64-50 A1 Challenge
Today at YMCA
W: Nabisunsa v UCU (4pm)
Division Three
Shooters v Air Force (6pm)
Bush Court v K’la Univ. (2pm)
Sky Jammers v Emperors (12pm)
Sharing v Shooters (10am)
Friday night was long coming. And when it came, DMark Power fans had reason to have waited this long for their team play like the MTN-Fuba League champions. A huge crowd skewed heavily in favour of UCU Canons left YMCA court disappointed after the university side folded to lose 90-78.
Above all, it is the imminent resurrection of a charged Joseph Ikong and the effectiveness of the quick transition that must have caught everyone’s attention. Last season’s regular season top scorer had 12 points. They might look few after Isaac Luggude came off the bench for a team-high 17 but to Ikong, this was by far his best game in ages.
Double double
Coach Bernice Ankunda definitely has to demand a repeat soon from his team who took all four periods 20-16, 23-21, 18-14 and 29-27 respectively. “I don’t know why most fans believe every game is supposed to be good,” Isaac Afidra said in defence of the documented struggles. The forward scored 16 points and 10 rebounds on his return.
UCU were helpless as the joy of sweeping 7UP Falcons 80-69 last Friday was washed away by committing 33 turnovers with guards Sudi Ulanga, Sande Okot and Geoff Omondi contributing six apiece. Bossing the paint 46-37 never mattered at all.
“We had so many lapses and didn’t play well towards the end of each quarter as planned. Power punished all our mistakes,” Nick Natuhereza, the beaten coach on the night, said. Afidra wished he had dished even more punishment after Ulanga had a game-high 21.
“There is need to step up on defence. Sudi got so many easy points,” an unsatisfied two-time champion said. Power improved to 7-1, one victory behind leaders Kyambogo Warriors (8-1). Jimmy Enabu (14) and Ricahrd Balemwa (10) epitomized the depth of Power as UCU fell to 5-4 despite the fighting efforts of Omondi (18), Martin Okwako (13) and the ultimate slam-dunk entertainer Desmond Owili (11). In the early game, KIU Rangers beat a lethargic A1 Challenge 64-50. Liz Baziira scored a futile 22 points and picked 10 boards.
UGANDA : Mbidde to fight Falcons penalty
at YMCA (Div 3)
Planets v Bush Court (6pm)
Crane v UPDF (4pm)
Stonev K’la Univ. (2pm)
Sharing v Sky Jammers (12pm)
City Oil v Ssaku (12pm)
Denis Mbidde, the 7UP Falcons president, is vowing not to go down without a fight after the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) technical committee ruled that his team will lose three points for using an unregistered.
Falcons fielded Philip Alweny in the victory against Charging Rhino and loss to Kyambogo Warriors. But Mbidde said he had not been informed about the penalty and accused Fuba of witch-hunt. “Maybe they have something against us,” an irate Mbidde said. “I gave the Fuba technical committee a copy of the release of this boy from Co-operative Bank (Kenya) so how can they deduct our points?”
The Kenyan played in both without clearance from his club and the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF), according to William Musaazi, the Fuba technical committee chairman. He said Alweny is absconding from duty at Kenyan side Cooperative Bank. Alweny was prevented from taking to the floor in Falcons’ 80-69 loss to UCU Canons last Friday.
“We wrote to them and even advised Mbidde not use the player until he is cleared but they refused. If they appeal, it’s their right,” said Musaazi. Mbidde, who last week accused Fuba of being ‘inept and ineffective like all federations’, said: “How can a player whose contract expired be absconding from duty? He is a free agent. We even asked Fuba and they let him play.”
If the appeal fails, Falcons, now 3-5 after the decision made on Tuesday, face an uphill battle to make the play-offs as they lie bottom of the 10-team division.
Planets v Bush Court (6pm)
Crane v UPDF (4pm)
Stonev K’la Univ. (2pm)
Sharing v Sky Jammers (12pm)
City Oil v Ssaku (12pm)
Denis Mbidde, the 7UP Falcons president, is vowing not to go down without a fight after the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (Fuba) technical committee ruled that his team will lose three points for using an unregistered.
Falcons fielded Philip Alweny in the victory against Charging Rhino and loss to Kyambogo Warriors. But Mbidde said he had not been informed about the penalty and accused Fuba of witch-hunt. “Maybe they have something against us,” an irate Mbidde said. “I gave the Fuba technical committee a copy of the release of this boy from Co-operative Bank (Kenya) so how can they deduct our points?”
The Kenyan played in both without clearance from his club and the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF), according to William Musaazi, the Fuba technical committee chairman. He said Alweny is absconding from duty at Kenyan side Cooperative Bank. Alweny was prevented from taking to the floor in Falcons’ 80-69 loss to UCU Canons last Friday.
“We wrote to them and even advised Mbidde not use the player until he is cleared but they refused. If they appeal, it’s their right,” said Musaazi. Mbidde, who last week accused Fuba of being ‘inept and ineffective like all federations’, said: “How can a player whose contract expired be absconding from duty? He is a free agent. We even asked Fuba and they let him play.”
If the appeal fails, Falcons, now 3-5 after the decision made on Tuesday, face an uphill battle to make the play-offs as they lie bottom of the 10-team division.
05 August 2011
UGANDA : UCU Canons plot Power downfall
Today at YMCA
Power v UCU (8.30pm)
Women
Rangers v A1 (6.30pm)
Wednesday result
Emperors 61-59 Livingstone
Reigning MTN-Fuba League champions DMark Power have lost only once this season. That’s an impressive record that should make their opponents tremble – not UCU Canons – though.
The university side take on Power in their final game of the first round tonight confident they will conjure up a win. “I believe my team is well prepared for the game,” Canons coach Nick Natuhera said yesterday.
UCU Canons are off a commanding 80-69 victory over record champions Falcons. Despite losing to Warriors, Miracle and Ndejje Angels, third-placed Canons know a win tonight will tighten their grip on a play-offs slot.
But with Power welcoming back Isaac Afidra who missed their previous game against Nkumba Marines, Canons must dig deeper to stop the champions.
In the women’s category, KIU Rangers will fancy their chances against former champions A-1 Challenge, whose squad is clearly short on experience this season. Elsewhere, Biston Planets earned a walkover win after City Oil failed to show up for their men’s Third Division fixture on Wednesday.
In the day’s only game, Livingstone suffered a bitter 61-59 loss to fellow Third Division play-offs contenders Emperors at YMCA.
04 August 2011
Boris Stankovic Cup : Carlos Morais leads Angola to the title
Angola - Australia 85:66
Angola celebrated the Boris Stankovic Cup title. They fired past Australia in the championship game tonight. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) masterminded the victory unloading 26 points for Angola.
The African powerhouse stunned the Boomers in the opening frame. Angola outscored their opponents 24:8 to ensure a comfortable lead at the first break. The Boomers stopped the rot in the second term. They picked up the slack but still trailed by 15 points at the interval 26:41. Angola once again increased the tempo after the big break. The African team fired 25 points in the third stanza to leave the Boomers behind by 24 points. Australia tried hard but had little chances in this one afterwards. Kikas Gomes (200-C/F-80, college: Valparaiso) delivered 21 points, while Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) added 11 in the victory. Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) finished with 11 points for Australia. Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college: Metro St.), Hugh Greenwood (190-G-92) and Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) accounted for 10 points apiece in the loss.
Angola: Carlos Morais 26, Kikas Gomes 21, Eduardo Mingas 11
Australia: Mark Worthington 11, Jesse Wagstaff 10, Hugh Greenwood 10, Luke Schenscher 10
Angola celebrated the Boris Stankovic Cup title. They fired past Australia in the championship game tonight. Carlos Morais (190-G-85) masterminded the victory unloading 26 points for Angola.
The African powerhouse stunned the Boomers in the opening frame. Angola outscored their opponents 24:8 to ensure a comfortable lead at the first break. The Boomers stopped the rot in the second term. They picked up the slack but still trailed by 15 points at the interval 26:41. Angola once again increased the tempo after the big break. The African team fired 25 points in the third stanza to leave the Boomers behind by 24 points. Australia tried hard but had little chances in this one afterwards. Kikas Gomes (200-C/F-80, college: Valparaiso) delivered 21 points, while Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) added 11 in the victory. Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) finished with 11 points for Australia. Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college: Metro St.), Hugh Greenwood (190-G-92) and Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) accounted for 10 points apiece in the loss.
Angola: Carlos Morais 26, Kikas Gomes 21, Eduardo Mingas 11
Australia: Mark Worthington 11, Jesse Wagstaff 10, Hugh Greenwood 10, Luke Schenscher 10
UGANDA : Improving Canons target Power’s scalp
Written by Felix Eupal
When the Enabu brothers, Ivan and Jimmy, opted to leave UCU Canons for Kyambogo Warriors and Dmark Power respectively, critics were quick to write the obituary of the Mukono-based university outfit.
And true to their word, the Canons looked a shadow of themselves when the season tipped off. In fact, they actually appeared to have been more affected by the third loss of Steven Mwesigye who crossed over to 7up Falcons. Thanks to Martin Okwako’s struggles, the Canons’ rebounding was pathetic. And while point guard Suudi Ulanga improved their offence, the initial absence of towering centre Desmon Owili left them with paint problems.
As such, the Canons suffered a shocking defeat to Ndejje Angels followed by losses to Warriors and Miracle Eagles. There was no shame in losing to Warriors and Miracle, but the loss to Ndejje raised many eyebrows. Something needed to be done. Coach Nick Natuhereza did his homework, and the results are showing – Owili is threatening to bring down the YMCA hoops with his monster dunks, Sunday Okot rediscovered the power drives he was known for back in high school while Ulanga has been outstanding with the ball in his hands that he has now been branded Uganda’s Derrick Rose.
As things got rosy with the Canons registering back-to-back wins, Natuhereza unearthed another gem in the form of 6ft 9inch centre Jake Whetstone. The 22-year-old from Taccoa Falls College, who is here for a Masters in Development Studies at the Mukono-based University, might have only played two games against Charging Rhino and 7up Falcons but his contribution has already convinced many that Canons are not just back in the race for the playoffs but as title contenders.
Despite his height, Whetstone doesn’t provide the massive dunks but his contribution off the ball and ability to create options for his teammates has made the Canons paint impregnable. Sam Obol couldn’t find an answer to him last Friday as the Canons stopped his Falcons side 80-69.
“Any player who is 6ft 9inch and understands basketball is surely very important to any basketball team,” Natuhereza says of Whetstone.
This Friday Whetstone has to prove how important he really is when his side takes on Dmark Power in the Canons’ last game of the first round. With five victories to their name, the Canons are not leaving anything to chance.
Natuhereza’s tough love has come in handy in shaping the Canons resilience and the players know that very well after he suspended team skipper Jeff Omondi for the Falcon’s game for missing practice with no explanation.
Whilst Natuhereza has promised not to spare anyone who shows acts of indiscipline, Dmark Power seems to openly embrace indiscipline. But that doesn’t mean that the defending champions are not favorites. With only one loss to Warriors, Power will still be in the driving seat.
When the Enabu brothers, Ivan and Jimmy, opted to leave UCU Canons for Kyambogo Warriors and Dmark Power respectively, critics were quick to write the obituary of the Mukono-based university outfit.
And true to their word, the Canons looked a shadow of themselves when the season tipped off. In fact, they actually appeared to have been more affected by the third loss of Steven Mwesigye who crossed over to 7up Falcons. Thanks to Martin Okwako’s struggles, the Canons’ rebounding was pathetic. And while point guard Suudi Ulanga improved their offence, the initial absence of towering centre Desmon Owili left them with paint problems.
As such, the Canons suffered a shocking defeat to Ndejje Angels followed by losses to Warriors and Miracle Eagles. There was no shame in losing to Warriors and Miracle, but the loss to Ndejje raised many eyebrows. Something needed to be done. Coach Nick Natuhereza did his homework, and the results are showing – Owili is threatening to bring down the YMCA hoops with his monster dunks, Sunday Okot rediscovered the power drives he was known for back in high school while Ulanga has been outstanding with the ball in his hands that he has now been branded Uganda’s Derrick Rose.
As things got rosy with the Canons registering back-to-back wins, Natuhereza unearthed another gem in the form of 6ft 9inch centre Jake Whetstone. The 22-year-old from Taccoa Falls College, who is here for a Masters in Development Studies at the Mukono-based University, might have only played two games against Charging Rhino and 7up Falcons but his contribution has already convinced many that Canons are not just back in the race for the playoffs but as title contenders.
Despite his height, Whetstone doesn’t provide the massive dunks but his contribution off the ball and ability to create options for his teammates has made the Canons paint impregnable. Sam Obol couldn’t find an answer to him last Friday as the Canons stopped his Falcons side 80-69.
“Any player who is 6ft 9inch and understands basketball is surely very important to any basketball team,” Natuhereza says of Whetstone.
This Friday Whetstone has to prove how important he really is when his side takes on Dmark Power in the Canons’ last game of the first round. With five victories to their name, the Canons are not leaving anything to chance.
Natuhereza’s tough love has come in handy in shaping the Canons resilience and the players know that very well after he suspended team skipper Jeff Omondi for the Falcon’s game for missing practice with no explanation.
Whilst Natuhereza has promised not to spare anyone who shows acts of indiscipline, Dmark Power seems to openly embrace indiscipline. But that doesn’t mean that the defending champions are not favorites. With only one loss to Warriors, Power will still be in the driving seat.
03 August 2011
SOUTH AFRICA : National Team 2011
Neo Mothiba 199-G/F-82 Soweto P.
Thabang Kgwedi 198-F-78 Soweto P.
Kegorapetse Letsebe 198-G/F-80 Soweto P.
Quintin Denyssen 200-F-80 Egoli M.
Tsakani Ngobeni 199-F-83 Hamilton
Cedrick Kalombo 208-C-83 Clayton St.
Lindokuhle Sibankulu 199-F-81 Maritzburg T.
Nhlanhla Dlamini 174-G-86 Soweto P.
Amogelang Keogatile 198-G-87
Brendan Mettler 190-G-82 Cape Town E.
Vincent Ntunja 185-PG-81 Cape Town E.
Sakhile Sithole 198-F-90
Tshilidzi Nephawe 205-C-89 N.Mexico St.
Chris Avenant 195-G/F-91 Northeastern
Christopher Gabriel 220-F-88
Fumani Marhanele 198-G/F-82
Mlungisi Ngwenya Head Coach
Patrick Engelbrecht Assistant
Thabang Kgwedi 198-F-78 Soweto P.
Kegorapetse Letsebe 198-G/F-80 Soweto P.
Quintin Denyssen 200-F-80 Egoli M.
Tsakani Ngobeni 199-F-83 Hamilton
Cedrick Kalombo 208-C-83 Clayton St.
Lindokuhle Sibankulu 199-F-81 Maritzburg T.
Nhlanhla Dlamini 174-G-86 Soweto P.
Amogelang Keogatile 198-G-87
Brendan Mettler 190-G-82 Cape Town E.
Vincent Ntunja 185-PG-81 Cape Town E.
Sakhile Sithole 198-F-90
Tshilidzi Nephawe 205-C-89 N.Mexico St.
Chris Avenant 195-G/F-91 Northeastern
Christopher Gabriel 220-F-88
Fumani Marhanele 198-G/F-82
Mlungisi Ngwenya Head Coach
Patrick Engelbrecht Assistant
SEYCHELLES : Présentation des équipes seychelloises de basket-ballles 8èmes Jeux des îles de l’Océan Indien
L’équipe féminine de basket-ball : Beguitta Fontaine, Zerah Fontaine, Williana Dubois, Tessa Mathiot, Simone Malbrook, Geneviève Beaudoin (capitaine), Lindy Mathiot, Lucia Souffe, Dynah Louis, Sheriffa Agathine, Myra Solin et Jenita Toussaint.
Réserves : Bernadette Songor et Magdeline Julienne.
Staff technique : Philip Arissol (l’entraîneur chef), Tony Juliette (l’entraîneur adjoint), Dominique Guéret et Paul Denis (conseillers techniques)
Pronostic de l’entraîneur chef Philip Arissol : « On est prêt pour la compétition et notre objectif est de remporter la médaille d’or. Il y a une belle ambiance au sein de l’équipe et toutes les joueuses sont conscientes de ce qu’elles ont à faire. »
L’équipe masculine de basket-ball : Bernard Bristol, Cyril Agrippine (capitaine), Robert Léon, Abdel Sylla, Amadou Sylla, Dominic Pillay, Reggie Ah-kong, Nigel Sinon, Darren Lesperance, Daniel Victor, Neddy Fanchette et Steven Servina.
Réserves : Sergio Ah-kong et Ron Estico.
Staff technique : Clifford Joubert (l’entraîneur chef), Michel Malbrook (l’entraîneur adjoint), Dominique Guéret et Paul Denis (conseillers techniques)
Pronostic de l’entraîneur chef Clifford Joubert : « Comme à chaque édition des JIOI, on vise la médaille d’or. On a une bonne équipe, mais on doit toujours avoir de respect pour nos adversaires. Chaque jour à l’entraînement, on travaille sur des choses différentes, surtout notre la défense. »
Réserves : Bernadette Songor et Magdeline Julienne.
Staff technique : Philip Arissol (l’entraîneur chef), Tony Juliette (l’entraîneur adjoint), Dominique Guéret et Paul Denis (conseillers techniques)
Pronostic de l’entraîneur chef Philip Arissol : « On est prêt pour la compétition et notre objectif est de remporter la médaille d’or. Il y a une belle ambiance au sein de l’équipe et toutes les joueuses sont conscientes de ce qu’elles ont à faire. »
L’équipe masculine de basket-ball : Bernard Bristol, Cyril Agrippine (capitaine), Robert Léon, Abdel Sylla, Amadou Sylla, Dominic Pillay, Reggie Ah-kong, Nigel Sinon, Darren Lesperance, Daniel Victor, Neddy Fanchette et Steven Servina.
Réserves : Sergio Ah-kong et Ron Estico.
Staff technique : Clifford Joubert (l’entraîneur chef), Michel Malbrook (l’entraîneur adjoint), Dominique Guéret et Paul Denis (conseillers techniques)
Pronostic de l’entraîneur chef Clifford Joubert : « Comme à chaque édition des JIOI, on vise la médaille d’or. On a une bonne équipe, mais on doit toujours avoir de respect pour nos adversaires. Chaque jour à l’entraînement, on travaille sur des choses différentes, surtout notre la défense. »
02 August 2011
RWANDA : KBC coach rues mediocre first round
Results
Men
KBC 85-59 KIE
Women
APR 79- 53
KIGALI Basketball Club coach Yves Nkurunziza has challenged his guns to step up their performance after a mediocre first round.
Despite winning six of the eight first round matches, Nkurunziza was sickened by the fact that the defending national men’s league champions lost to arch rivals APR and also forfeited points against CSK.
This meant that they could only finish fourth (13 points), three adrift of table leaders APR.
Speaking after Saturday’s 85-59 victory over Kigali Institute of Education (KIE), Nkurunziza was particularly livid by their forfeited game against CSK.
“The forfeit against CSK really hurt but I’m still backing my team to fight in the second round,” he said.
KBC were fined for fielding an unregistered player Egide Nkusi.
“For one to play in the national league, he or she must be fully registered. At the time, Nkusi wasn’t,” the local basketball governing body (Ferwaba) technical director Didier Shema explained.
01 August 2011
UGANDA : FUBA should exploit fan interest
y Charles Mutebi Staff writer
LOCAL league basketball has real potential to become genuinely popular in this country. That has pretty much been an open secret for all this century.
Sometimes, however, the Federation of Uganda Basketball Association appear oblivious to it. Local basketball’s governing body has had a marketing department for sometime now but it is safe to say it has not taken local hoops by storm.
In the federation’s new executive, this department falls under vice president media, marketing and publicity – Mr Ali Balunwya.
He has been in office for a week so no judgements can be passed although an introductory e-mail to the entire media fraternity with full contacts and a promise to meet their needs would have done Balunywa no harm.
Thing is FUBA have learnt to leave much of their publicity to the media. Granted the media partly exists to do just that but FUBA don’t have to leave the entire business of promoting their league games to the press.
For instance, a major basketball game can attract a mammoth crowd one night and no one in FUBA deems it necessary to announce during one of the several breaks that they will be interesting games tomorrow and the day after.
The YMCA is regularly packed on Friday night and empty on Saturday night. How?
Frankly, FUBA have to invest in marketing the sport.
True, they are operating on tight funds but what comes first, an egg or a chicken?
LOCAL league basketball has real potential to become genuinely popular in this country. That has pretty much been an open secret for all this century.
Sometimes, however, the Federation of Uganda Basketball Association appear oblivious to it. Local basketball’s governing body has had a marketing department for sometime now but it is safe to say it has not taken local hoops by storm.
In the federation’s new executive, this department falls under vice president media, marketing and publicity – Mr Ali Balunwya.
He has been in office for a week so no judgements can be passed although an introductory e-mail to the entire media fraternity with full contacts and a promise to meet their needs would have done Balunywa no harm.
Thing is FUBA have learnt to leave much of their publicity to the media. Granted the media partly exists to do just that but FUBA don’t have to leave the entire business of promoting their league games to the press.
For instance, a major basketball game can attract a mammoth crowd one night and no one in FUBA deems it necessary to announce during one of the several breaks that they will be interesting games tomorrow and the day after.
The YMCA is regularly packed on Friday night and empty on Saturday night. How?
Frankly, FUBA have to invest in marketing the sport.
True, they are operating on tight funds but what comes first, an egg or a chicken?
UGANDA : A1 cruise past Amazon, Vegetarian smash Gulu
Saturday results
W: Amazon 27-70 A1
Division 2
Vegetarian 58-49 Gulu
Division 3
Air Force 54-50 TLC
Sky Jammers 76-61 Ssaku
K’la Univ. 91-40 UPDF
Former women’s champions A1 Challenge beat Amazon Rhino 70-27 in the MTN-Fuba League on Saturday night to stay within touching distance of the leading pack.
Barbra Okot led the way with 12 points and Malena Rasmann added 11 as the 2005 champions outclassed Rhino in all four sessions (30-7, 15-7, 11-8, 14-5).
Joan Mochiruku was the only Rhino player in double figures, scoring 15 points.
In the men’s Division Two, Vegetarian beat visiting Gulu Hawks 58-49.
Vegetarian were equally dominant, out-scoring their opponents in all quarters (14-13, 16-11, 14-11, 14-11).
Vegetarian skipper Viney Jurua sunk 12 points while Lawrence Waliga added 15.
The Luzira-based side’s coach Simon Otine was contented with the result.
“I am happy with the result. We played well today,” Otine said.
W: Amazon 27-70 A1
Division 2
Vegetarian 58-49 Gulu
Division 3
Air Force 54-50 TLC
Sky Jammers 76-61 Ssaku
K’la Univ. 91-40 UPDF
Former women’s champions A1 Challenge beat Amazon Rhino 70-27 in the MTN-Fuba League on Saturday night to stay within touching distance of the leading pack.
Barbra Okot led the way with 12 points and Malena Rasmann added 11 as the 2005 champions outclassed Rhino in all four sessions (30-7, 15-7, 11-8, 14-5).
Joan Mochiruku was the only Rhino player in double figures, scoring 15 points.
In the men’s Division Two, Vegetarian beat visiting Gulu Hawks 58-49.
Vegetarian were equally dominant, out-scoring their opponents in all quarters (14-13, 16-11, 14-11, 14-11).
Vegetarian skipper Viney Jurua sunk 12 points while Lawrence Waliga added 15.
The Luzira-based side’s coach Simon Otine was contented with the result.
“I am happy with the result. We played well today,” Otine said.
