30 September 2011
TANZANIA : TBF to Field Six Teams At Zone Five Tourney
TANZANIA as host of Zone Five basketball clubs championship will field in six teams in the event set for National Indoor Stadium and Don Dosco courts in Dar es Salaam from October 9 to 16, this year.
Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) Secretary General, Alexander Msoffe said yesterday that preparations for the event are on a top gear.
He said teams from nine competing countries are expected to arrive starting October 7. Msoffe named the local clubs lined for the championship as ABC, Savio and Vijana in men's category, while the ladies category will feature Jeshi Stars, Lady Lioness and Cargo.
"We are happy that preparations are going on well taking into account that the event is a big test and an opportunity for the country to prove that we are worth to be accorded a chance to host such an event," said Msoffe.
He said they are making all means possible to ensure that they stage one of the successful Zone Five basketball events, which will grant them another chance to host more such continental meet.
Moreover, he said, the local clubs must be well prepared to ensure that they win top honours in the championship by the virtue of being hosts.
"I believe they will use the home ground advantage to the fullest and learn from other participating teams," he said.
Countries that will compete and the number of teams they will send in bracket are Kenya (5), Uganda (3), Rwanda (3), Burundi (2), Ethiopia (2), Eritrea (1) and Southern Sudan (2) In last year's Zone Five event held in Bujumbura, Burundi, local teams that took part in the event were Savio and Jeshi Stars in the women category, while for the men it was only Savio after JKT pulled out on the eleventh hour.
Kenya's Co-op Bank and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) won in the men's and ladies' categories respectively.
Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) Secretary General, Alexander Msoffe said yesterday that preparations for the event are on a top gear.
He said teams from nine competing countries are expected to arrive starting October 7. Msoffe named the local clubs lined for the championship as ABC, Savio and Vijana in men's category, while the ladies category will feature Jeshi Stars, Lady Lioness and Cargo.
"We are happy that preparations are going on well taking into account that the event is a big test and an opportunity for the country to prove that we are worth to be accorded a chance to host such an event," said Msoffe.
He said they are making all means possible to ensure that they stage one of the successful Zone Five basketball events, which will grant them another chance to host more such continental meet.
Moreover, he said, the local clubs must be well prepared to ensure that they win top honours in the championship by the virtue of being hosts.
"I believe they will use the home ground advantage to the fullest and learn from other participating teams," he said.
Countries that will compete and the number of teams they will send in bracket are Kenya (5), Uganda (3), Rwanda (3), Burundi (2), Ethiopia (2), Eritrea (1) and Southern Sudan (2) In last year's Zone Five event held in Bujumbura, Burundi, local teams that took part in the event were Savio and Jeshi Stars in the women category, while for the men it was only Savio after JKT pulled out on the eleventh hour.
Kenya's Co-op Bank and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) won in the men's and ladies' categories respectively.
29 September 2011
UGANDA : Warriors withdraw from Zone 5 event
Kyambogo Warriors have pulled out of next month’s Zone V Club Basketball Championships citing lack of funds for the relatively expensive trip to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The turnaround from the national league losing finalists implies that Miracle Eagles can now travel as one of two Ugandan men’s sides as a replacement for the October 9-15 event.
“We have failed to raise the money so I confirm that we have pulled out and communicated to Fuba,” a frustrated Brian Gumisiriza, the Warriors team manager, said yesterday. Fuba vice-president Patrick Egwel has consequently written to Miracle to take the slot along with champions DMark Power who are expected to confirm or pull out by end of tomorrow. Power team manager Philip Kyomuhendo told this newspaper that they would compete in the annual tournament which would be the first they play outside Uganda in 10 years.
“We have failed to raise the money so I confirm that we have pulled out and communicated to Fuba,” a frustrated Brian Gumisiriza, the Warriors team manager, said yesterday. Fuba vice-president Patrick Egwel has consequently written to Miracle to take the slot along with champions DMark Power who are expected to confirm or pull out by end of tomorrow. Power team manager Philip Kyomuhendo told this newspaper that they would compete in the annual tournament which would be the first they play outside Uganda in 10 years.
28 September 2011
KENYA : Ulinzi Warriors Trap Thunder in Premier League Duel
ULINZI Warriors recovered from their recent defeat against champions Co-operative Bank to beat Thunder 60-48 in a Premier League clash on Sunday at the Nyayo Stadium.
The soldiers, who had lost 78-49 to Co-op Bank the previous day, struggled but did enough to take maximum points. They led 19-9 in the first quarter but trailed 4-10 in the second. After the break they raced to a 21-13 third quarter edge before both sides tied 16-16 in the last.
William Ochieng led the charge with 16 points, Victor Odendo scored 14 while Ancette Wafula hit 12. Thunder were pepped by internationals James Omune, who scrored 14 and Griffin Ligare who had 12. In another match, United States International University (USIU) Tigers mauled Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA) University 59-55 as Arou Ramadhan scored 18 while Victor Bosire shot 13. KCA had 14 from Alphonse Muchiri.
In the ladies ties, USIU Flames doused Predators 88-54, behind 16 points a piece from Debrah Chan and Magnifique Menyi. Match losers also had 16 each from Lillian Jona and Linda Kimemia. KCA whipped Kenya Polytechnic University 48-31.
The lower division matches saw Nairobi Aviation College (NAC) hit Trailblazers 73-67 while Umoja whipped Kenya Polytechnic 48-31 in a low scoring game.
In the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league, Upper Hill beat Sittle Prince 61-45. Samuel Dede shot 17 and Victor Odhiambo had 12 for the losers. In their second tie, the students won 57-48 as Dede hit another 17. Baraka Xtreme nailed Neosasa Morans 59-39 behind 22 points from Peter Kimani. Heroes upset Legacy 56-55 with Sammy Mogoko bagged 24 points. Strathmore lost 39-61 to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUATS).Africa Nazarene University (ANU) went past Barclays Bank Eaglets 47-43 with Emi Ikoni making 15 while the bankers had 23 from Betty Khaniahu.
The soldiers, who had lost 78-49 to Co-op Bank the previous day, struggled but did enough to take maximum points. They led 19-9 in the first quarter but trailed 4-10 in the second. After the break they raced to a 21-13 third quarter edge before both sides tied 16-16 in the last.
William Ochieng led the charge with 16 points, Victor Odendo scored 14 while Ancette Wafula hit 12. Thunder were pepped by internationals James Omune, who scrored 14 and Griffin Ligare who had 12. In another match, United States International University (USIU) Tigers mauled Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA) University 59-55 as Arou Ramadhan scored 18 while Victor Bosire shot 13. KCA had 14 from Alphonse Muchiri.
In the ladies ties, USIU Flames doused Predators 88-54, behind 16 points a piece from Debrah Chan and Magnifique Menyi. Match losers also had 16 each from Lillian Jona and Linda Kimemia. KCA whipped Kenya Polytechnic University 48-31.
The lower division matches saw Nairobi Aviation College (NAC) hit Trailblazers 73-67 while Umoja whipped Kenya Polytechnic 48-31 in a low scoring game.
In the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league, Upper Hill beat Sittle Prince 61-45. Samuel Dede shot 17 and Victor Odhiambo had 12 for the losers. In their second tie, the students won 57-48 as Dede hit another 17. Baraka Xtreme nailed Neosasa Morans 59-39 behind 22 points from Peter Kimani. Heroes upset Legacy 56-55 with Sammy Mogoko bagged 24 points. Strathmore lost 39-61 to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUATS).Africa Nazarene University (ANU) went past Barclays Bank Eaglets 47-43 with Emi Ikoni making 15 while the bankers had 23 from Betty Khaniahu.
UGANDA : Eagles await Zone5 decision
TODAY AT KOLOLO SS (DIV.3)
TLC vs. City Oil (8.30pm)
K’la Univ. vs. Planets (6.30pm)
The fate of Uganda fielding a third men’s team in the regional Zone V Club Basketball Championships in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania next month, lies in the hands of organisers.
Miracle Eagles have already written to the local body, Fuba, intimating their willingness to participate in the annual event but competitions committee head Sande Manano said it’s out of his hands. “Usually, we are allowed two teams for each of the men’s and women’s competitions so we requested the Zone to allow us an extra team. We shall get feedback and inform the teams tomorrow (today),” Manano said yesterday.
At the previous event in Burundi last year, Fuba successfully sought an extra slot which Miracle, having finished fifth, took along with the then champions Kyambogo Warriors and third-placed UCU Canons.
DMark Power, runners-up in the 2009 league, and the fourth-placed 7UP Falcons skipped the Burundi event, handing the bonus position to Miracle. This time, champions Power and losing finalists Warriors will be entered though none has officially communicated to Fuba despite both teams telling this newspaper that they will definitely travel.
Alongside the two, Miracle come in as a fifth option after the other two UCU Canons and Falcons fail to register due to the rule which allows only two foreigners yet they mainly have players from the region. In the women’s half, champions UCU Lady Canons and A1 Challenge are granted the slots. The former’s hopes of participation hang by the thread. “Initially, we had planned not to travel because the trip is long and costly.
So we sought sponsorship which doesn’t look positive now,” Dale Sculy, the UCU sports tutor said. “Do you anywhere I can find Shs40m right now? This being a university we can only travel by air in order to fit into the academic schedule,” he added. KCC and KIU are likely to take UCU’s slot.
TLC vs. City Oil (8.30pm)
K’la Univ. vs. Planets (6.30pm)
The fate of Uganda fielding a third men’s team in the regional Zone V Club Basketball Championships in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania next month, lies in the hands of organisers.
Miracle Eagles have already written to the local body, Fuba, intimating their willingness to participate in the annual event but competitions committee head Sande Manano said it’s out of his hands. “Usually, we are allowed two teams for each of the men’s and women’s competitions so we requested the Zone to allow us an extra team. We shall get feedback and inform the teams tomorrow (today),” Manano said yesterday.
At the previous event in Burundi last year, Fuba successfully sought an extra slot which Miracle, having finished fifth, took along with the then champions Kyambogo Warriors and third-placed UCU Canons.
DMark Power, runners-up in the 2009 league, and the fourth-placed 7UP Falcons skipped the Burundi event, handing the bonus position to Miracle. This time, champions Power and losing finalists Warriors will be entered though none has officially communicated to Fuba despite both teams telling this newspaper that they will definitely travel.
Alongside the two, Miracle come in as a fifth option after the other two UCU Canons and Falcons fail to register due to the rule which allows only two foreigners yet they mainly have players from the region. In the women’s half, champions UCU Lady Canons and A1 Challenge are granted the slots. The former’s hopes of participation hang by the thread. “Initially, we had planned not to travel because the trip is long and costly.
So we sought sponsorship which doesn’t look positive now,” Dale Sculy, the UCU sports tutor said. “Do you anywhere I can find Shs40m right now? This being a university we can only travel by air in order to fit into the academic schedule,” he added. KCC and KIU are likely to take UCU’s slot.
27 September 2011
RWANDA : Lady hoops expect stern Senegal test
Championship
Day 1
Rwanda 69-35 Guinea
Day 2
Rwanda 42-45 Cameroon
Day 3
Angola 67-59 Rwanda
Today
Rwanda vs Senegal - 6pm
AFTER back to back defeats against Angola (59-67) and Cameroon (42-45), the national women basketball team have everything to play for when they clash with defending champions Senegal this afternoon.
The lady hoops got their 2011 Fiba-Africa Women championship off to a great start with a commanding 69-35 victory over Guinea but things have not gone their way since.
Rwanda’s assistant coach Charles Mbazumutima was angered by the team’s inability to kill off games.
Similar to the Cameroon match, Rwanda dominated the first half (32-23) but still let the game slip out of their hands after losing the last two quarters 15-25 and 10-19.
The team now has a tough task on their hands against ten-time African champions Senegal who still have a 100 per cent record after winning their opening three games.
Rwanda’s final group (B) game is against two-time champions Nigeria. Group A pits Tunisia against 2007 winners and hosts Mali, Ghana, DRC, Mozambique and Ivory Coast
Day 1
Rwanda 69-35 Guinea
Day 2
Rwanda 42-45 Cameroon
Day 3
Angola 67-59 Rwanda
Today
Rwanda vs Senegal - 6pm
AFTER back to back defeats against Angola (59-67) and Cameroon (42-45), the national women basketball team have everything to play for when they clash with defending champions Senegal this afternoon.
The lady hoops got their 2011 Fiba-Africa Women championship off to a great start with a commanding 69-35 victory over Guinea but things have not gone their way since.
Rwanda’s assistant coach Charles Mbazumutima was angered by the team’s inability to kill off games.
Similar to the Cameroon match, Rwanda dominated the first half (32-23) but still let the game slip out of their hands after losing the last two quarters 15-25 and 10-19.
The team now has a tough task on their hands against ten-time African champions Senegal who still have a 100 per cent record after winning their opening three games.
Rwanda’s final group (B) game is against two-time champions Nigeria. Group A pits Tunisia against 2007 winners and hosts Mali, Ghana, DRC, Mozambique and Ivory Coast
26 September 2011
KENYA : Coop torment Ulinzi Warriors in a one sided encounter
Defending champions COOP Bank made a meal of Ulinzi Warriors on Saturday beating the soldiers 49-78 in a game that saw Kenya’s decorated forward Peter Kiganya showcase his class burying the first baskets for his side in the first quarter that ended 12-16 in favor of the bankers.
The soldiers opened the second quarter with a 4-0 lead but the bankers were quick to respond by 9-2 courtesy of two three pointers from Abel Nson to water down Ulinzi’s efforts. The second quarter still eluded the soldiers losing 14-20.
The commencing of second half marked the beginning of the soldiers’ tribulations with COOP turning them to mere spectators constantly following the direction of the ball and mostly got a possession of it when the bankers buried a basket,
There was no place for the soldiers’ combative style of play and whenever they attempted to foul their opponents, a whistle was blown from nowhere to put them on check. The third and fourth quarters ended in COOP’s favor at 8-19 and 15-23 respectively.
Kiganya and Nson combined to bag 22 and 13 points respectively while Bernard Mfutu and Wafula Ancette scored 10 and 6 points respectively for the Warriors.
The soldiers opened the second quarter with a 4-0 lead but the bankers were quick to respond by 9-2 courtesy of two three pointers from Abel Nson to water down Ulinzi’s efforts. The second quarter still eluded the soldiers losing 14-20.
The commencing of second half marked the beginning of the soldiers’ tribulations with COOP turning them to mere spectators constantly following the direction of the ball and mostly got a possession of it when the bankers buried a basket,
There was no place for the soldiers’ combative style of play and whenever they attempted to foul their opponents, a whistle was blown from nowhere to put them on check. The third and fourth quarters ended in COOP’s favor at 8-19 and 15-23 respectively.
Kiganya and Nson combined to bag 22 and 13 points respectively while Bernard Mfutu and Wafula Ancette scored 10 and 6 points respectively for the Warriors.
UGANDA : Ali gives Warriors torrid time
New signing Salim Ali will not let Heaters get relegated from the MTN-Fuba League men’s Division One without a fight. Ali scored game-high 31 points and 10 assists to give giants Kyambogo Warriors a huge scare before the championship contenders won 75-66. The Nkumba Marines guard epitomised the spirit of a team that has won only two games this season and still face a tall order to survive the drop.
Heaters matched Warriors for a large portion of the game only for the former champions’ snatch it in the final session 31-22. They had edged the first quarter 18-16 and the third 15-12 but Heaters claimed the second 16-12.
Heaters matched Warriors for a large portion of the game only for the former champions’ snatch it in the final session 31-22. They had edged the first quarter 18-16 and the third 15-12 but Heaters claimed the second 16-12.
RWANDA : Lady hoops lose to Cameroon
Fiba-Africa Women championship
First match
First match
Rwanda 69-35 Guinea
Second match
Cameroon 45-42 Rwanda
RWANDA felt hard-done after yesterday’s 45-42 defeat at the hands of Cameroon in their second match of the 2011 Fiba-Africa Women Championship in Bamako, Mali.
There was little to separate the sides in the first half as they drew 14-14 in the 1st quarter and 28-28 in the second quarter.
Rwanda went ahead in the third quarter 33-30 before losing the last quarter 9-15.
It was a step back for Coach Amaovic Nenad’s side that got their campaign off to a good start after Saturday’s 69-35 win over Guinea.
“We switched off in the final quarter but overall, I think we played well,” a defiant Nenad said.
Twelve teams are in contention and they include 2007 winners and hosts Mali, two-time champions Nigeria, Guinea, Rwanda, Ghana, defending champions Senegal, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Ivory Coast and Angola.
The teams are divided into two groups with Mali, Ghana, Tunisia, DRC, Ivory Coast and Mozambique in Group A. Senegal, Nigeria, Guinea, Angola, Cameroon and Rwanda are in Group B.
25 September 2011
UGANDA : Power thrash Rhino
PLAYING TODAY
UCU v Power (7.30pm)
KIU v Falcons (5.30pm)
W: KCC v Nabisunsa (3.30pm)
Crane High v UCU (3.30pm)
Division 2
Kings v St. Michael (1.30pm)
UCU JV v Riders (1.30pm)
Division 3
Jackets v B. Court (11.30am)
Air Force v Planets (11.30am)
Jammers v Sharing (9.30am)
UPDF v City Oil (9.30am)
Wandegeya
This could be a long MTN-Fuba League weekend for DMark Power. They did thrash Charging Rhino 107-65 and need to find that extra ounce of energy for the clash with UCU Canons at YMCA court today.
Coach Bernice Ankunda’s side posted the first hundred of the men’s topflight this season with Isaac Afidra leading the way with 16 points and 10 rebounds. “The result is good but very imperfect. We should have scored 100 points by the end of the first quarter and also let in so many,” said Power captain Afidra.
Power were clinical in using their strength – transitional basketball at its best. Isaac Luggudde scored a game-high 23 points as it all looked too easy at times against the relegation threatened side.
Rhino trailed 17-25, 7-26, 18-26 and 23-30 through the four periods with Walter Omony the only notable player in offense with 11 points. Knowing the challenge which UCU presents, Ankunda gave his big men limited time on the floor.
UCU v Power (7.30pm)
KIU v Falcons (5.30pm)
W: KCC v Nabisunsa (3.30pm)
Crane High v UCU (3.30pm)
Division 2
Kings v St. Michael (1.30pm)
UCU JV v Riders (1.30pm)
Division 3
Jackets v B. Court (11.30am)
Air Force v Planets (11.30am)
Jammers v Sharing (9.30am)
UPDF v City Oil (9.30am)
Wandegeya
This could be a long MTN-Fuba League weekend for DMark Power. They did thrash Charging Rhino 107-65 and need to find that extra ounce of energy for the clash with UCU Canons at YMCA court today.
Coach Bernice Ankunda’s side posted the first hundred of the men’s topflight this season with Isaac Afidra leading the way with 16 points and 10 rebounds. “The result is good but very imperfect. We should have scored 100 points by the end of the first quarter and also let in so many,” said Power captain Afidra.
Power were clinical in using their strength – transitional basketball at its best. Isaac Luggudde scored a game-high 23 points as it all looked too easy at times against the relegation threatened side.
Rhino trailed 17-25, 7-26, 18-26 and 23-30 through the four periods with Walter Omony the only notable player in offense with 11 points. Knowing the challenge which UCU presents, Ankunda gave his big men limited time on the floor.
23 September 2011
KENYA : Ulinzi appeal against MMUST Walk Over
Ulinzi Warriors have appealed against a decision to award Masinde Muliro University a walk over last weekend claiming there was total communication breakdown between their office and the basketball secretariat in charge of the fixtures.
According to Ulinzi Warriors coach Eliud Nzioka, “The confusion in the change of fixtures at the last minute is to blame for our predicament. We knew the match in Kakamega was to be played on Sunday 18th and that was the fixture we had. Apparently KBF changed the fixture when we were away in Burundi only to arrive at the match venue last week on Sunday to be told that our opponents had been awarded a walk over.”
The former champions will this weekend face Thunder at the Nyayo stadium gymnasium on Saturday afternoon in one of the six matches set for the weekend.
All matches will be played at the Nyayo stadium gymnasium this weekend
NAIROBI AVIATION VS TRAILBLAZERS
UMOJA VS TERROR
KCA-U VS KENYA POLY
PREDATORS VS USIU
USIU VS KCA-U
THUNDER VS ULINZI
According to Ulinzi Warriors coach Eliud Nzioka, “The confusion in the change of fixtures at the last minute is to blame for our predicament. We knew the match in Kakamega was to be played on Sunday 18th and that was the fixture we had. Apparently KBF changed the fixture when we were away in Burundi only to arrive at the match venue last week on Sunday to be told that our opponents had been awarded a walk over.”
The former champions will this weekend face Thunder at the Nyayo stadium gymnasium on Saturday afternoon in one of the six matches set for the weekend.
All matches will be played at the Nyayo stadium gymnasium this weekend
NAIROBI AVIATION VS TRAILBLAZERS
UMOJA VS TERROR
KCA-U VS KENYA POLY
PREDATORS VS USIU
USIU VS KCA-U
THUNDER VS ULINZI
UGANDA : Rhino fight growing drop fears
Desperate times call for desperate measures and Charging Rhino must beat champions DMark Power in the MTN-Fuba League at YMCA court if they are to calm the growing relegation fears.
The former champions, who only returned to the topflight this season, are reeling from a week when they lost four points for fielding an unregistered player against Nkumba Marines in the first round. They must be regretting using former KCC Lions players Herbert Akhita in that game that the two points gained for a similar decision going against 7UP Falcons provide nothing to celebrate.
Rhino have only won one game on court and the other two by forfeiture. “Fuba made an unjust decision,” Rhino coach Ronnie Mutebi said.
Today at YMCA
M: Rhinovs.Power (8.30pm)
W: Stormers vs. Amazon (6.30pm)
The former champions, who only returned to the topflight this season, are reeling from a week when they lost four points for fielding an unregistered player against Nkumba Marines in the first round. They must be regretting using former KCC Lions players Herbert Akhita in that game that the two points gained for a similar decision going against 7UP Falcons provide nothing to celebrate.
Rhino have only won one game on court and the other two by forfeiture. “Fuba made an unjust decision,” Rhino coach Ronnie Mutebi said.
Today at YMCA
M: Rhinovs.Power (8.30pm)
W: Stormers vs. Amazon (6.30pm)
RWANDA > Hoops can bounce back in 2013-Cameron
RWANDA’S small forward Bradley Cameron is backing Rwanda to come good during the 2013 Afrobasket.
The team endured a tough time at this year’s Afrobasket tournament in Madagascar, were they finished 12th out of 16 teams with only one win to their name.
Cameron, 20, who plays for Mississippi Gulf Coast in the USA and was a key figure in the 2009 Afrobasket tourney held in Libya, blamed the poor performance on inadequate preparations.
“At the top level, preparations have to be 100 per cent so else, you will be punished. That’s what happened to us. We were not ready for the tournament. We did not gel as a team,” the player said.
Some of Rwanda’s defeats came against Egypt 66-76 and Ivory Coast 72-80.
Meanwhile, Rwanda, who hosted the 2009 edition, are bidding to host the 2013 event but face stiff competition from Tunisia and Ivory Coast.
The winner will be announced next week during the course of the 2011 Fiba-Africa Women championship slated to run from September 23-October 2 in Mali.
The team endured a tough time at this year’s Afrobasket tournament in Madagascar, were they finished 12th out of 16 teams with only one win to their name.
Cameron, 20, who plays for Mississippi Gulf Coast in the USA and was a key figure in the 2009 Afrobasket tourney held in Libya, blamed the poor performance on inadequate preparations.
“At the top level, preparations have to be 100 per cent so else, you will be punished. That’s what happened to us. We were not ready for the tournament. We did not gel as a team,” the player said.
Some of Rwanda’s defeats came against Egypt 66-76 and Ivory Coast 72-80.
Meanwhile, Rwanda, who hosted the 2009 edition, are bidding to host the 2013 event but face stiff competition from Tunisia and Ivory Coast.
The winner will be announced next week during the course of the 2011 Fiba-Africa Women championship slated to run from September 23-October 2 in Mali.
22 September 2011
SEYCHELLES : National Team 2011
Dominic Pillay Cobras
Bernard Bristol G Hawks
Nigel Sinon 174-G Rockers
Cyril Agrippine F/G Rockers
Abdel Kader Sylla 205-C-90 Nancy
Reggie Ah-Kong Cobras
Amadou Sylla Cobras
Darren Lesperance Cobras
Robert Leon 196-C BAYA
Giovanni Laval 175-G BAYA
Nigel Cafrine Razors
Daniel Victor Hawks
Neddy Fanchette C Hawks
Sergio Ah-Kong
Arnaud Arissol
Ron Estico
Bernard Bristol G Hawks
Nigel Sinon 174-G Rockers
Cyril Agrippine F/G Rockers
Abdel Kader Sylla 205-C-90 Nancy
Reggie Ah-Kong Cobras
Amadou Sylla Cobras
Darren Lesperance Cobras
Robert Leon 196-C BAYA
Giovanni Laval 175-G BAYA
Nigel Cafrine Razors
Daniel Victor Hawks
Neddy Fanchette C Hawks
Sergio Ah-Kong
Arnaud Arissol
Ron Estico
NAMIBIA : Basketball Present Various Clinics
The Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) will be conducting an Advanced Referees Clinic from September 30 to October 2 2011 as well as a FIBA sanctioned Young Coaches Clinic from October 31 to November 7.
The Advance Referees Clinic is proudly supported by the German Government through its support to the development of basketball in Namibia with the NBF.
The purpose of both of these clinics is to equip referees and coaches with the necessary information and skills to handle basketball games at both local and international level. Both clinics will be held in Windhoek.
The NBF is also proud to announce that FIBA (International Basketball Federation) has approved Namibia to host the 1st Africa 3 on 3 Basketball International Test tournament on December 3 and 4.
This world event will be organized in conjunction with Vision of the Youth Namibia, an NGO that promotes sport and youth development.
The Advance Referees Clinic is proudly supported by the German Government through its support to the development of basketball in Namibia with the NBF.
The purpose of both of these clinics is to equip referees and coaches with the necessary information and skills to handle basketball games at both local and international level. Both clinics will be held in Windhoek.
The NBF is also proud to announce that FIBA (International Basketball Federation) has approved Namibia to host the 1st Africa 3 on 3 Basketball International Test tournament on December 3 and 4.
This world event will be organized in conjunction with Vision of the Youth Namibia, an NGO that promotes sport and youth development.
KENYA : Four Teams for Regional Club Tourney in Dar-Es -Salaam
FOUR Kenyan teams will spearhead the country's assault in the FIBA Africa Zone Five Club Championships early next month in Dar-es -Salaam, Tanzania. The event moved from September due to the 10th All Africa games in Maputo, Mozambique will throw off from October 9-15 in the Tanzanian capital city.
Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) secretary Vitalis Gode said with the Pan Africa Games over, the stage is set for the regional event and reigning men's champions Co-operative Bank (men) and Eagle Wings (women) will lead Kenya's charge.
The other participants are KCB Lions and national women champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). The four teams were also in Bujumbura, Burundi last year, where Lions and KPA finished third.
Host Burundi gave a good account of themselves in only their first regional championships that also included teams from Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda. With four strong teams, Kenyans will most likely be the sides to beat again in the championships that will also bring clubs from Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Ethiopia and Djibouti together.
Zone Five president Morris Aluanga said that the entry in Dar will be the largest ever as a minimum of 22 clubs are expected. He said the competition is expected to get tight in future with the entry of Southern Sudan. The last edition in Burundi had a total of 18 teams with the 2009 one in Kampala, Uganda setting the existing record with 19 clubs.
Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) secretary Vitalis Gode said with the Pan Africa Games over, the stage is set for the regional event and reigning men's champions Co-operative Bank (men) and Eagle Wings (women) will lead Kenya's charge.
The other participants are KCB Lions and national women champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). The four teams were also in Bujumbura, Burundi last year, where Lions and KPA finished third.
Host Burundi gave a good account of themselves in only their first regional championships that also included teams from Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda. With four strong teams, Kenyans will most likely be the sides to beat again in the championships that will also bring clubs from Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Ethiopia and Djibouti together.
Zone Five president Morris Aluanga said that the entry in Dar will be the largest ever as a minimum of 22 clubs are expected. He said the competition is expected to get tight in future with the entry of Southern Sudan. The last edition in Burundi had a total of 18 teams with the 2009 one in Kampala, Uganda setting the existing record with 19 clubs.
21 September 2011
KENYA : Six clubs book places for NBA Play-offs next week .
SIX teams have booked places in the 2011 Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) Provincial play-offs planned for next weekend at the Railways Club. With a total 14 matches on card, fixtures secretary Caleb Osewe said league leaders Kenya Airways (61 points), Barclays Bank (58), Strathmore University (53), KU Pirates (53), Old Pirates (52) and Upper Hill School (48) have all qualified for the post season games. The last two places, he observed, will be filled by either Baraka Xtreme (47), Little Prince (47), Legacy (46) or Jomo kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (46). The four teams go into this weekend’s matches aware of the scenario.
Over the weekend, KQ soared past Upper Hill School 68-56 in a charged show. Vincent Onsongo scored 18 points and Erick Odhiambo netted 14. Collins Ochieng led with 21 and Eric Ouma hit 14 for the students. Upper Hill beat Heroes 63-46. Barclays Bank nipped JKUATS 53-46 as Ian Wachie collected 21 points. JKUATS posted a 64-57 victory over Legacy. Dean Wamema led the way with 29. Reagan Basweti hit points 17 while Manasseh Otieno and Paul Limanthi nailed 15 each to lift Old Pirates to a 88-39 thumping of Aquinas High. KU Pirates rolled over Multi Media University (MMU) while in the ladies tie, Barclays Bank beat Jkuat 47-42.
Over the weekend, KQ soared past Upper Hill School 68-56 in a charged show. Vincent Onsongo scored 18 points and Erick Odhiambo netted 14. Collins Ochieng led with 21 and Eric Ouma hit 14 for the students. Upper Hill beat Heroes 63-46. Barclays Bank nipped JKUATS 53-46 as Ian Wachie collected 21 points. JKUATS posted a 64-57 victory over Legacy. Dean Wamema led the way with 29. Reagan Basweti hit points 17 while Manasseh Otieno and Paul Limanthi nailed 15 each to lift Old Pirates to a 88-39 thumping of Aquinas High. KU Pirates rolled over Multi Media University (MMU) while in the ladies tie, Barclays Bank beat Jkuat 47-42.
UGANDA : Falcons on verge of relegation
By Usher Komugisha
Today
Men, Division 3
Shooters v Livingstone
Ssaku v TLC 8:30pm
UGANDA’S most successful basketball club, Falcons, is on the verge of relegation after the game’s governing body FUBA penalised them for using an ineligi¬ble player in Philip Amweny.
According to FUBA tech¬nical committee chairman William Musaazi, the Falcons will lose four points for using Amweny against the Kyambogo Warriors and Charging Rhinos in the first round and another four points in the second round.
“There is no club that is above the law in this league, Falcons and Charging Rhino have been penalised and will lose points for fielding ineligi¬ble players,” said Ali Balunywa, FUBA’s vice president.
In reference to the FUBA rules and regulations, Falcons will not be allowed to play the return fixtures against the same sides.
Competitions committee chairman Sande Manano told New Vision that Falcons was warned beforehand that they would lose points but they did not heed to the advice. The develop¬ment means the team has now five points.
Today
Men, Division 3
Shooters v Livingstone
Ssaku v TLC 8:30pm
UGANDA’S most successful basketball club, Falcons, is on the verge of relegation after the game’s governing body FUBA penalised them for using an ineligi¬ble player in Philip Amweny.
According to FUBA tech¬nical committee chairman William Musaazi, the Falcons will lose four points for using Amweny against the Kyambogo Warriors and Charging Rhinos in the first round and another four points in the second round.
“There is no club that is above the law in this league, Falcons and Charging Rhino have been penalised and will lose points for fielding ineligi¬ble players,” said Ali Balunywa, FUBA’s vice president.
In reference to the FUBA rules and regulations, Falcons will not be allowed to play the return fixtures against the same sides.
Competitions committee chairman Sande Manano told New Vision that Falcons was warned beforehand that they would lose points but they did not heed to the advice. The develop¬ment means the team has now five points.
TANZANIA : Malezi Players Benefit From Coaching Course
BASKETBALL players from Malezi School benefited from a coaching clinic conducted by celebrated former National Basketball Association (NBA) player Joby Wright at the Sadili Oval over the weekend.
The clinic saw the budding players undergo intense training involving targeting various aspects of the games including, endurance, ball control and shoots.
Wright, the NBA Africa technical director, appealed to the local basketball coaches to ensure players receive the necessary assistance to enable them break into the major leagues both nationally and internationally. He observed that Kenyan players have a great chance of excelling in the sport in the future as long as they are guided. "Players who perform well in basketball and in academics have a great chance of winning NBA scholarships.
This is a good thing for African players who are faced with major obstacles as far as the development of their game is concerned," he said. The Malezi players said they are taking the advice on the game and academics very seriously and they will formulate their own timetable in as far as the two things are concerned.
The clinic saw the budding players undergo intense training involving targeting various aspects of the games including, endurance, ball control and shoots.
Wright, the NBA Africa technical director, appealed to the local basketball coaches to ensure players receive the necessary assistance to enable them break into the major leagues both nationally and internationally. He observed that Kenyan players have a great chance of excelling in the sport in the future as long as they are guided. "Players who perform well in basketball and in academics have a great chance of winning NBA scholarships.
This is a good thing for African players who are faced with major obstacles as far as the development of their game is concerned," he said. The Malezi players said they are taking the advice on the game and academics very seriously and they will formulate their own timetable in as far as the two things are concerned.
TANZANIA : Heroes Rally to Beat Mzizima 50-28 in Basketball Tourney
Heroes Secondary School survived a scare before beating Mzizima 50-28 in a thrilling Dar es Salaam regional basketball championship league at Zanaki grounds on Monday.
Mzizima seemed destined for a win in the opening minutes as they enjoyed the lion's share of the first four minutes of the first quarter.
However, they lost steam towards the end of the closely contested quarter to go down 16-14.
In the second quarter, Heroes started where they had left off, scoring points almost at will to take the quarter 36-12.
Yusuph Abel and Ben Elisha were instrumental to Heroes' victory. They scored 16 and 15 points respectively, while their team mate Jaisan Ndambala had 10 points.
Earlier, Azania Secondary School tumbled to 58-27 to Loyora in another exciting match at the same venue. At half time, Loyora were leading 33-7.
Luis Abrahaman scored 16 points for Loyora and Francis Crispian had 16. Rogers Adely was a notable player for Azania. He scored 18 points.
Mzizima seemed destined for a win in the opening minutes as they enjoyed the lion's share of the first four minutes of the first quarter.
However, they lost steam towards the end of the closely contested quarter to go down 16-14.
In the second quarter, Heroes started where they had left off, scoring points almost at will to take the quarter 36-12.
Yusuph Abel and Ben Elisha were instrumental to Heroes' victory. They scored 16 and 15 points respectively, while their team mate Jaisan Ndambala had 10 points.
Earlier, Azania Secondary School tumbled to 58-27 to Loyora in another exciting match at the same venue. At half time, Loyora were leading 33-7.
Luis Abrahaman scored 16 points for Loyora and Francis Crispian had 16. Rogers Adely was a notable player for Azania. He scored 18 points.
20 September 2011
KENYA : Kenya Airways Still Soaring in NBA League
LEADERS Kenya Airways continued their fine run in the Nairobi Basketball Association league when they costed to an easy 94-67 win over Baraka Xtreme at Railways Club.
With Emmanuel Ekai in great form, KQ were in control from the start as he nailed 23 points for the winners. Old Pirates pipped Upper Hill School 65-64 in a closely fought and entertaining tie with Hannington Sitati bagging 14 points for the winners. Upper Hill had clobbered Legacy 60-47 in their earlier fixture as Ochieng provided 26 points. Legacy had 11 from Jesse Umala.
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat) had mixed results. They hit Heroes 70-51 as Guyton Kijuba nailed a season high 35 points that included a record seven three pointers. Heroes had 12 points from Ansalim Onalo. Jkuat were then felled 57-74 by Don Bosco. KU Pirates whipped Little Prince coached by former great Jaffred Amugune 69-36. Douglas Momanyi shot 12 for KU. And in the ladies tie Africa Nazarene University ANU) nu continued to impress with a 44-21 over Jkuat.
With Emmanuel Ekai in great form, KQ were in control from the start as he nailed 23 points for the winners. Old Pirates pipped Upper Hill School 65-64 in a closely fought and entertaining tie with Hannington Sitati bagging 14 points for the winners. Upper Hill had clobbered Legacy 60-47 in their earlier fixture as Ochieng provided 26 points. Legacy had 11 from Jesse Umala.
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat) had mixed results. They hit Heroes 70-51 as Guyton Kijuba nailed a season high 35 points that included a record seven three pointers. Heroes had 12 points from Ansalim Onalo. Jkuat were then felled 57-74 by Don Bosco. KU Pirates whipped Little Prince coached by former great Jaffred Amugune 69-36. Douglas Momanyi shot 12 for KU. And in the ladies tie Africa Nazarene University ANU) nu continued to impress with a 44-21 over Jkuat.
SEYCHELLES : National League
Hawks in comfortable zone, main opponents go down
PLS Hawks are in a quite comfortable zone after garnering their 12th win in 13 games and watching their main opponents – Premium Cobras and Baya – go down with a giant thud inside the Victoria Gymnasium last weekend.
Captained by Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG) gold medallist Bernard Bristol, men’s division one champions Hawks had it easy against Cascade Bullets with a 95-46 victory on the back of a game-high 38 points from Nigerian Alao Solomon.Sandy Julienne got 10 points for the Bullets who are in seventh place with 18 points from five wins and eight losses, while the win helped bring leaders Hawks’ points tally to 25.
Angels had skipper Chabel Servina and Keiren Agathine scoring 22 points apiece last Saturday to give Dominic Françoise a winning debut in their 79-77 upset of star-studded Premium Cobras boasting three IOIG gold medallists – Dominic Pillay, Amadou Sylla and Darren Lesperance – and the Nigerian pair of Simon Pusam and Ugbaje Ajodoh.
Françoise, who joined from Drifters, contributed 15 points on his debut as Anse Boileau-based Angels made the difference with a 26-16 third-quarter win to open a five-point lead going into the fourth which they lost 24-27.
The win – their fifth in 14 games – has propelled coach/player Charles Sauzier’s Angels into fifth position on the 10-team standings with 19 points, while the Cobras, who got 23 points from Ajodoh and 22 from Sylla, are fourth with 21 points.
With coach Guy Hall absent from their bench for the third straight game, the Cobras have a win-lose record of 9-3.
Another IOIG gold medallist, player Nigel Sinon was on fire with five treys for 15 of his game-leading 31 points as MBU Rockers overcame a 17-point half-time deficit to outscore Baya 49-24 in the second half for an 82-74 win.
With fellow IOIG gold medallist Cyril Agrippine still absent on an overseas trip, Pascal Bibi stepped up his game to add 22 points and centre Keven Hoareau finished with 10 in the Rockers’ 10th win of the season for 23 points out of a possible 26.
The defeat is the fourth in 14 games for Baya who are currently second behind PLS Hawks on 24 points, but they have played a match more than both the leaders and the Rockers.
Jean-Paul ‘JP’ Camille finished with 23 points for Baya and Dave Roseline came off the bench to net 16.
Ronny Julius banked two 3-pointers to finish with 21 pointers, centre Emmanuel Larue added 16, Mike Jean 15 and Emmanuel Jupiter 10 as RC Dynamics celebrated only their fourth win in 13 matches and at the same time added salt to bottom team Razors’ wound with an 84-69 victory.
The Razors are finding the going tough in the top flight as they conceded their 11th defeat in as many matches despite captain Serge Radegonde and Alex Baron finishing with 14 points apiece.
In the women’s league, Anse Etoile Stars have extended their winning streak to seven games as they reached the century mark against inexperienced Cadettes in a 102-12 win.
Skipper Simone Malbrook led all scores with 24 points and five other Stars – Veena Panagary 16, Malagasy Miantratsiory Rakotomomoundindy 14, Jana Malbrook 13, Lucia Souffe 10 and Magdeline Julienne 10 – in double digits as coach Michel Malbrook’s team continue their march towards reclaiming the women’s title they lost to HotShots two years ago
Gina Estico got six points for Cadettes who are winless in seven games.
Mont Fleuri rebounded from defeat to amass their fifth win in eight games as Bernadette Songor led them with 16 points in their 57-42 victory over RA Sisters.
Veteran Williana Dubois added 12 points for the Mont Fleurians who are on 13 points, while RA Sisters’ duo of Tessa Mathiot and Rachel Labrosse finished with 12 points apiece in a lost cause.
Meanwhile, in the men’s division two league, Juniors inflicted a 60-42 defeat of visitors Praslin Warriors for their sixth win in seven games for 13 points.
UGANDA : UCU hand Ndejje third league loss
UCU avenge their loss to Ndejje. In the earlier matches, Cubs went down heavily to Lady Canons 89-20, Sparks cruised past Nabisunsa 49-43 in a closely contested tie while Jammers lost to Crane High 74-77.
SUNDAY RESULTS
UCU Canons 65-67 Ndejje Angels
MUK Sparks 49-43 Nabisunsa
UCU CANONS NDEJJE ANGELS
13 S. Ulanga Points C. Bicko 24
13 S. Okot Rebounds S. Kiviri 7
5 G. Omondi Assists C. Bicko 4
2 J. Wettstone Steals D. Imbali 2
7 R. Ogweno Turnovers D. Imbali 3
WANDEGEYA
Despite carrying four fouls, Sudi Ulanga led UCU Canons to their first win in the second round on Sunday. The Kenyan star scored 13 points in a 78-53 victory over Ndejje Angels. He made four rebounds and two assists to hand Ndejje a third loss in the second round of the Fuba league.
Sande Okot added 11 points and 13 rebounds while Martine Okwako scored 11 points and made nine rebounds as the university side dominated throughout.
It was sweet revenge for UCU who had gone down to the Angels in the first round. UCU took the first three quarters 11-8, 21-10 and 25-13 and were less concerned when Ndejje took the fourth 22-21.
“We have started to get back into rythm. Sudi was in foul trouble and he couldn’t finish the game but the end result was satisfying because we won,” said Dale Scully, UCU Canons’ general coach. He added: “We are going to compete harder in the last seven games to ensure we have a good chance to make play-offs.” UCU Canons had earlier lost their first second round game to Miracle Eagles 77-78.
Ndejje Angels now have a mountain to climb as they have lost three games in the second round. They went down to Falcons, Heaters and now to UCU. The Canons finished fifth in the first round with a 4-5 record.
SUNDAY RESULTS
UCU Canons 65-67 Ndejje Angels
MUK Sparks 49-43 Nabisunsa
UCU CANONS NDEJJE ANGELS
13 S. Ulanga Points C. Bicko 24
13 S. Okot Rebounds S. Kiviri 7
5 G. Omondi Assists C. Bicko 4
2 J. Wettstone Steals D. Imbali 2
7 R. Ogweno Turnovers D. Imbali 3
WANDEGEYA
Despite carrying four fouls, Sudi Ulanga led UCU Canons to their first win in the second round on Sunday. The Kenyan star scored 13 points in a 78-53 victory over Ndejje Angels. He made four rebounds and two assists to hand Ndejje a third loss in the second round of the Fuba league.
Sande Okot added 11 points and 13 rebounds while Martine Okwako scored 11 points and made nine rebounds as the university side dominated throughout.
It was sweet revenge for UCU who had gone down to the Angels in the first round. UCU took the first three quarters 11-8, 21-10 and 25-13 and were less concerned when Ndejje took the fourth 22-21.
“We have started to get back into rythm. Sudi was in foul trouble and he couldn’t finish the game but the end result was satisfying because we won,” said Dale Scully, UCU Canons’ general coach. He added: “We are going to compete harder in the last seven games to ensure we have a good chance to make play-offs.” UCU Canons had earlier lost their first second round game to Miracle Eagles 77-78.
Ndejje Angels now have a mountain to climb as they have lost three games in the second round. They went down to Falcons, Heaters and now to UCU. The Canons finished fifth in the first round with a 4-5 record.
19 September 2011
KENYA : Weekend Basketball results
Three Premier League matches were played over the weekend with Strathmore Swords, USIU Tigers and KCB Lions emerging victorious in their games. The first match dubbed as ‘Varsities derby’ pitted Strathmore Swords against their perennial rivals USIU flames. Swords cruised past the Flames in the tight encounter winning 56-61.
The first quarter ended 41-12 in favor of USIU but Swords dominated the second and third 11-14 and 9-16 before losing out the fourth at 22-19.Flames’ Linda Mfuchi bagged 22 points for her side while Joyce Nabwire scored 19 for title chasing Swords.
USIU men were back to the court again for a second consecutive week to tackle Mennonites straining every muscle to steal a 67-72 victory. Tigers won the first and third quarters at 15-23 and 25-26 respectively while Mennonites took charge of the second and fourth winning 14-12 and 13-11. Mennonites’ Victor Odendo had 18 points while James Omweno netted 24 points for USIU.
The last game of the evening brought together former champions KCB Lions against Strathmore Blades. The Lions endured pressure from the students in the entire game to snatch a slim 53-56 win. Led by Tobias Onyango and Ikapian Juma,the former champions won the second quarter 8-13 and 12-15 while Blades won the first and fourth at 16-13 and 17-15 respectively. Tonny Abondo had 19 points for the Blades while Tobias Onyango scored 14 points for the Lions.
Meanwhile Masinde Muliro were awarded a walkover after Ulinzi Warriors failed to show up for their clash on Saturday. The soldiers instead arrived for the game on Sunday only to be served with the news that they had forfeited a match.
That means besides missing the two points up for a grab in the game, the Soldiers will also be stripped another point for missing a match further complicating their match to the playoffs where every team is now trying to win in order ‘to avoid an opponent that may be an impediment to their walk to the glory.’
The first quarter ended 41-12 in favor of USIU but Swords dominated the second and third 11-14 and 9-16 before losing out the fourth at 22-19.Flames’ Linda Mfuchi bagged 22 points for her side while Joyce Nabwire scored 19 for title chasing Swords.
USIU men were back to the court again for a second consecutive week to tackle Mennonites straining every muscle to steal a 67-72 victory. Tigers won the first and third quarters at 15-23 and 25-26 respectively while Mennonites took charge of the second and fourth winning 14-12 and 13-11. Mennonites’ Victor Odendo had 18 points while James Omweno netted 24 points for USIU.
The last game of the evening brought together former champions KCB Lions against Strathmore Blades. The Lions endured pressure from the students in the entire game to snatch a slim 53-56 win. Led by Tobias Onyango and Ikapian Juma,the former champions won the second quarter 8-13 and 12-15 while Blades won the first and fourth at 16-13 and 17-15 respectively. Tonny Abondo had 19 points for the Blades while Tobias Onyango scored 14 points for the Lions.
Meanwhile Masinde Muliro were awarded a walkover after Ulinzi Warriors failed to show up for their clash on Saturday. The soldiers instead arrived for the game on Sunday only to be served with the news that they had forfeited a match.
That means besides missing the two points up for a grab in the game, the Soldiers will also be stripped another point for missing a match further complicating their match to the playoffs where every team is now trying to win in order ‘to avoid an opponent that may be an impediment to their walk to the glory.’
NIGERIA : Nigeria wins the Gold in Maputo
Nigeria's D'Tigers on Saturday won the gold medal in the mens Basketball event as the national team defeated their host, Mozambique, 62-57 in the final before a huge home crowd.
D Tigers had defeated Angola, the former African Champions, at the semi-finals to set up the epic encounter with Mozambique while the host defeated Algeria, another tough nut, to qualify for the finals.
The Nigeria Basketball team played a defensive game contesting every ball with their opponent to lead 18-14, 28-24, 46-43 and eventually at 62-57 in the four quarters of the game.
The Mozambican fans started trooping into the Desportivo Sports Centre, Maputo, as early as noon for a match scheduled to start at 8 p.m. but did not begin until 8:30 p.m.
However, the Nigeria team, who were not intimidated by the packed crowd at the indoor sports hall, played their hearts out and eventually won the deserved gold medal.
After the epic encounter, the green-white-green Nigerian flag took centre court as the players and few Nigerians who watched the match celebrated.
President Armando Guebuza of Mozambique, who witnessed the defeat of his team, presented the medals to the Nigerian players.
However, Sani Ahmed, Coach of Nigerias DTigers, says the gold medal won is a mission accomplished through hard work, determination and discipline exhibited by the players.
''We set out to accomplish this mission and I am very happy that we were able to pick the gold medal and also defeat the Angolans in the semi-finals.
Coach Sani said the team would return home and immediately commence preparations for the 2012 London Olympic Games.
Also reacting to the victory, Muktar Khaleh, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Technical Director, said winning the gold medal at stake at the games was an indication that basketball was developing in the country.
Khaleh, a one-time National Team Captain, said the Federations next objective would be to win the African Womens Championship beginning next week in Mali.
The technical director expressed the hope that with the performance of the mens team at the Games, the women would be motivated to perform well in their tournament in Mali.
D Tigers had defeated Angola, the former African Champions, at the semi-finals to set up the epic encounter with Mozambique while the host defeated Algeria, another tough nut, to qualify for the finals.
The Nigeria Basketball team played a defensive game contesting every ball with their opponent to lead 18-14, 28-24, 46-43 and eventually at 62-57 in the four quarters of the game.
The Mozambican fans started trooping into the Desportivo Sports Centre, Maputo, as early as noon for a match scheduled to start at 8 p.m. but did not begin until 8:30 p.m.
However, the Nigeria team, who were not intimidated by the packed crowd at the indoor sports hall, played their hearts out and eventually won the deserved gold medal.
After the epic encounter, the green-white-green Nigerian flag took centre court as the players and few Nigerians who watched the match celebrated.
President Armando Guebuza of Mozambique, who witnessed the defeat of his team, presented the medals to the Nigerian players.
However, Sani Ahmed, Coach of Nigerias DTigers, says the gold medal won is a mission accomplished through hard work, determination and discipline exhibited by the players.
''We set out to accomplish this mission and I am very happy that we were able to pick the gold medal and also defeat the Angolans in the semi-finals.
Coach Sani said the team would return home and immediately commence preparations for the 2012 London Olympic Games.
Also reacting to the victory, Muktar Khaleh, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Technical Director, said winning the gold medal at stake at the games was an indication that basketball was developing in the country.
Khaleh, a one-time National Team Captain, said the Federations next objective would be to win the African Womens Championship beginning next week in Mali.
The technical director expressed the hope that with the performance of the mens team at the Games, the women would be motivated to perform well in their tournament in Mali.
UGANDA : KIU edge Charging Rhinos in thriller
weekend result
Rhinos 65-67 KIU
RHINOS KIU
10 A. Omongin Points A. Juma 20
7 I. Farooq Rebounds J. Etalu 9
3 A. Omongin Assists M. Olobo 3
3 A. Kobel Steals M. Olobo 5
4 J. Bongomin Turnovers E. Shikuku 5
Kampala
With his team on the brink of defeat, forward Abraham Juma stood for KIU Titans to overcome Charging Rhino 67-65 in a relegation humdinger in the MTN-Fuba League at YMCA court on Saturday night.
Juma, who finished with 20 points and seven rebounds, sank two late two pointers including a winning basket 12 seconds to the end of the game. Teammate Joshua Etalu laid the foundation scoring 15 points and nine rebounds while Moses Olobo added 13 and three assists to beat Rhino and ease their relegation fears.
“We executed both offensive and defensive rebounds from the beginning of the game and that is why we triumphed. I am happy with the result although we made a few mistakes in the last quarter,” said KIU Titans’ coach Nimrod Kaboha. His team won the first two periods 25-11 and 11-10 but Rhino recovered to clinch the final quarters 19-15 and 24-17.
Rhinos 65-67 KIU
RHINOS KIU
10 A. Omongin Points A. Juma 20
7 I. Farooq Rebounds J. Etalu 9
3 A. Omongin Assists M. Olobo 3
3 A. Kobel Steals M. Olobo 5
4 J. Bongomin Turnovers E. Shikuku 5
Kampala
With his team on the brink of defeat, forward Abraham Juma stood for KIU Titans to overcome Charging Rhino 67-65 in a relegation humdinger in the MTN-Fuba League at YMCA court on Saturday night.
Juma, who finished with 20 points and seven rebounds, sank two late two pointers including a winning basket 12 seconds to the end of the game. Teammate Joshua Etalu laid the foundation scoring 15 points and nine rebounds while Moses Olobo added 13 and three assists to beat Rhino and ease their relegation fears.
“We executed both offensive and defensive rebounds from the beginning of the game and that is why we triumphed. I am happy with the result although we made a few mistakes in the last quarter,” said KIU Titans’ coach Nimrod Kaboha. His team won the first two periods 25-11 and 11-10 but Rhino recovered to clinch the final quarters 19-15 and 24-17.
17 September 2011
ZIMBABWE : Raiderz Begin Title Defence
CHAMPIONS Raiderz start the defence of their Ghetto Basketball League with a match against Hustlers at Mufakose courts today.
A total of 12 teams have entered for the GBL, which serves as a warm-up event to the Harare Basketball League.
The GBL will move to Mabvuku tomorrow before the semi-finals next Saturday at Dzivaresekwa courts
The finals are expected next Sunday at Hellenics Sports Club.
Two top teams from the pools will proceed to the semi-finals next week and Ngoni Mukhukhula, the Raiderz coach, will be hoping to start on a winning note.
Raiderz have Norest Shenje in the line-up while the veteran player will look forward to the support from the long serving Costa Mashati and Tatenda Maturure.
Hustlers could give the seasoned campaigners a good run for their money if their top players Brady Mungofa and Warren Teguma come to the party.
Another potentially interesting clash today will see Jammers taking on Cameo.
Jammers' trump card is Micheal Koffie while pointguard Lloyd Munyanduri and his brother Lawrence are likely to make the team.
The two sides are rekindling their rivalry from the old Mashonaland Basketball Association which gave way to the HBA. Last season Cameo were playing in a different league after their director Roderick
Takawira refused to recognised the HBA executive led by Gilcrest Magezah.
A total of 12 teams have entered for the GBL, which serves as a warm-up event to the Harare Basketball League.
The GBL will move to Mabvuku tomorrow before the semi-finals next Saturday at Dzivaresekwa courts
The finals are expected next Sunday at Hellenics Sports Club.
Two top teams from the pools will proceed to the semi-finals next week and Ngoni Mukhukhula, the Raiderz coach, will be hoping to start on a winning note.
Raiderz have Norest Shenje in the line-up while the veteran player will look forward to the support from the long serving Costa Mashati and Tatenda Maturure.
Hustlers could give the seasoned campaigners a good run for their money if their top players Brady Mungofa and Warren Teguma come to the party.
Another potentially interesting clash today will see Jammers taking on Cameo.
Jammers' trump card is Micheal Koffie while pointguard Lloyd Munyanduri and his brother Lawrence are likely to make the team.
The two sides are rekindling their rivalry from the old Mashonaland Basketball Association which gave way to the HBA. Last season Cameo were playing in a different league after their director Roderick
Takawira refused to recognised the HBA executive led by Gilcrest Magezah.
UGANDA : Sinking duo Titans, Rhinos seek to ease relegation fears
TODAY AT YMCA
Rhino vsTitans (7.30pm)
KCC vs.Crane (5.30pm)
Division Two
Stormers vs Gulu (5.30pm)
Rocksvs Veg. (3.30pm)
Division Three
Stone vs Ssaku (1.30pm
Jackets vs UPDF (9.30am)
At Makerere court (Div. III)
M: Kings vs Diamonds (3.30pm)
M: Bush Court vs Shooters (1.30pm)
KAMPALA
Following a sustained slide this season, Kampala International University (KIU) Titans know that only victory over Charging Rhino in the MTN-Fuba League at YMCA court today will clear their own relegation fears and sink the latter.
Champions DMark Power just toppled KIU 87-73, however, the university team now knows the name of the game is survival at all costs. “We are not worried about relegation because we are not planning to lose again. Today we are going to try our best and lead the game,” said Titan’s coach, Nimrod Kaboha.
The return of Brian Watti to link up with Joshua Etalu and Noel Nyimbo should greatly aid Kaboha’s no retreat no surrender attitude. Rhino remain hopeful of regaining the forfeited points in first round game against Nkumba Marines when Fuba sit tomorrow. “We lost to Marines by forfeiture but we are going to play good basketball to boost our performance in this round,” said Ronnie Mutebi, the Rhino coach.
Rhino defeated Nkumba Marines in the first round but the Fuba technical committee handed Marines two points after the former used two ineligible players, Herbert Akhita and Farouk Omar, formerly of KCC Lions and KIU Titans.
The duo had not yet been cleared by Fuba. Rhino lost their first round opening game to Warriors 46-78. Rhino’s stars Walter Omony and Fahmy Ssebatindira have however vowed to lift up their team and stay clear of the drop.
Rhino vsTitans (7.30pm)
KCC vs.Crane (5.30pm)
Division Two
Stormers vs Gulu (5.30pm)
Rocksvs Veg. (3.30pm)
Division Three
Stone vs Ssaku (1.30pm
Jackets vs UPDF (9.30am)
At Makerere court (Div. III)
M: Kings vs Diamonds (3.30pm)
M: Bush Court vs Shooters (1.30pm)
KAMPALA
Following a sustained slide this season, Kampala International University (KIU) Titans know that only victory over Charging Rhino in the MTN-Fuba League at YMCA court today will clear their own relegation fears and sink the latter.
Champions DMark Power just toppled KIU 87-73, however, the university team now knows the name of the game is survival at all costs. “We are not worried about relegation because we are not planning to lose again. Today we are going to try our best and lead the game,” said Titan’s coach, Nimrod Kaboha.
The return of Brian Watti to link up with Joshua Etalu and Noel Nyimbo should greatly aid Kaboha’s no retreat no surrender attitude. Rhino remain hopeful of regaining the forfeited points in first round game against Nkumba Marines when Fuba sit tomorrow. “We lost to Marines by forfeiture but we are going to play good basketball to boost our performance in this round,” said Ronnie Mutebi, the Rhino coach.
Rhino defeated Nkumba Marines in the first round but the Fuba technical committee handed Marines two points after the former used two ineligible players, Herbert Akhita and Farouk Omar, formerly of KCC Lions and KIU Titans.
The duo had not yet been cleared by Fuba. Rhino lost their first round opening game to Warriors 46-78. Rhino’s stars Walter Omony and Fahmy Ssebatindira have however vowed to lift up their team and stay clear of the drop.
15 September 2011
RWANDA : Country Switch Focus to Mali Afrobasket Finals
RWANDA women basketball team has kicked off preparations for this year's Fiba Women Afrobasket to be held in Mali from September 23-October 2.
After a poor performance in the All Africa games where Rwanda finished seventh, head coach Nenad Amanovic said yesterday, "we have increased our preparation after ending Maputo campaign on a disappointing position. The focus is on Mali now and we are set for the Africa championship."
The national team is training twice every day at Petit Stade, Remera following their return from Maputo. In Maputo, Rwanda finished seventh after 72-59 victory over Algeria in the final classification match.
Mahoro Laetitia was the team's top scorer with 19 points, Jackie Musabe with 17 points, Monic Williams with 12 points and Anderson Tierra with 11 points.
Meanwhile, Mali has been presented with a perfect opportunity to reclaim the Fiba Women Afrobasket crown after they were named hosts of the 2011 edition.
In 2007 Mali won its first ever Afrobasket Women competition by beating the host nation Senegal in the final (63-56).
By winning Afrobasket 2007 Mali had qualified directly for the 2008 Olympic Games.
In 2009 Mali lost their African crown in the final against Senegal (57-72) but still qualified for the 2010 FIBA World Championship for Women.
After a poor performance in the All Africa games where Rwanda finished seventh, head coach Nenad Amanovic said yesterday, "we have increased our preparation after ending Maputo campaign on a disappointing position. The focus is on Mali now and we are set for the Africa championship."
The national team is training twice every day at Petit Stade, Remera following their return from Maputo. In Maputo, Rwanda finished seventh after 72-59 victory over Algeria in the final classification match.
Mahoro Laetitia was the team's top scorer with 19 points, Jackie Musabe with 17 points, Monic Williams with 12 points and Anderson Tierra with 11 points.
Meanwhile, Mali has been presented with a perfect opportunity to reclaim the Fiba Women Afrobasket crown after they were named hosts of the 2011 edition.
In 2007 Mali won its first ever Afrobasket Women competition by beating the host nation Senegal in the final (63-56).
By winning Afrobasket 2007 Mali had qualified directly for the 2008 Olympic Games.
In 2009 Mali lost their African crown in the final against Senegal (57-72) but still qualified for the 2010 FIBA World Championship for Women.
UGANDA : Warriors, Falcons tie called off
Kyambogo Warriors’ surge to the MTN-Fuba League play-offs has ground to a temporary halt after their clash with 7UP Falcons scheduled for today was called off by the local body pending an appeal by the latter.
Warriors whipped six-time champions 92-77 in the first round but the former got the result by forfeiture as Falcons used an unregistered player Philip Ameny.
The Fuba rules stipulate that in cases of forfeiture, a walkover is given for the corresponding fixture, something Falcons dispute. “This is a very sensitive issue since it involves interpretation of Fuba rules,” said Patrick Egwel, the Fuba vice-president.
Falcons lost three first round points and a further four in this quota for fielding the Kenyan forward against Charging Rhino and Warriors. Rhino too were punished under similar circumstances.
Warriors whipped six-time champions 92-77 in the first round but the former got the result by forfeiture as Falcons used an unregistered player Philip Ameny.
The Fuba rules stipulate that in cases of forfeiture, a walkover is given for the corresponding fixture, something Falcons dispute. “This is a very sensitive issue since it involves interpretation of Fuba rules,” said Patrick Egwel, the Fuba vice-president.
Falcons lost three first round points and a further four in this quota for fielding the Kenyan forward against Charging Rhino and Warriors. Rhino too were punished under similar circumstances.
13 September 2011
UGANDA : DMark Power hammer KIU
Friday results
UCU 77-78 Miracle
Heaters 72-54 Ndejje
Sunday
KIU 77-87 Power
Kampala
Following Sunday’s defeat to Power, KIU Titans believes the big loss came about due to Brian Watti’s absence in the match. D’Mark Power thumped KIU Titans 73-87 to clinch their third second round win.
KIU toppled Power in the first quarter, 20-17, and briefly threatened to make it a difficult night for the champions. But Power siezed the initiative from there on, winning the remaining quarters 24-16, 24-18 and 22-19. Joseph Ikong and Ben Komakech scored 21 and 13 points respectively to lead the their team to a playoff position.
Boniface Okello’s 11 points further cemented the gulf in class. Power coach Bernice Nkunda believes his team’s deep bench made the difference. “However,” he added, “We are still making slight mistakes.” It is a mark of the team’s hunger and desire that their coach, despite dominant performances like last week’s victory over archrivals Falcons, Nkunda is not yet contented.
KIU coach Nimrod Kaboha rued the missing Watti and also foul trouble. “We missed our main player - Watti. Besides, Joshua Etalu and Noel Onyimbo got distressing fouls.
UCU 77-78 Miracle
Heaters 72-54 Ndejje
Sunday
KIU 77-87 Power
Kampala
Following Sunday’s defeat to Power, KIU Titans believes the big loss came about due to Brian Watti’s absence in the match. D’Mark Power thumped KIU Titans 73-87 to clinch their third second round win.
KIU toppled Power in the first quarter, 20-17, and briefly threatened to make it a difficult night for the champions. But Power siezed the initiative from there on, winning the remaining quarters 24-16, 24-18 and 22-19. Joseph Ikong and Ben Komakech scored 21 and 13 points respectively to lead the their team to a playoff position.
Boniface Okello’s 11 points further cemented the gulf in class. Power coach Bernice Nkunda believes his team’s deep bench made the difference. “However,” he added, “We are still making slight mistakes.” It is a mark of the team’s hunger and desire that their coach, despite dominant performances like last week’s victory over archrivals Falcons, Nkunda is not yet contented.
KIU coach Nimrod Kaboha rued the missing Watti and also foul trouble. “We missed our main player - Watti. Besides, Joshua Etalu and Noel Onyimbo got distressing fouls.
12 September 2011
KENYA : Mennonites bow to Tigers, Wings put off Flames
USIU Tigers managed to survive an early scare from Mennonites to secure a 68-64 win in a balanced thriller played on Sunday at Nyayo gymnasium. Mennonites drew the first blood taking an early 5 point lead courtesy of three point shot from Collins Ooko and a lay-up from Mc’Odongo Steve. Calm was however restored in the varsity’s bench after Evans Letting made quick amends with consecutive baskets to bring into control Mennonites who appeared like were on a rampage each time taking the battle to USIU’s own half.
The first half ended with Tigers trailing 13-15 in the first quarter and 15-16 in the second.
The second half was marred by foul play with match officials forced to step in and calm the rising adrenaline on the court as both sides played like they badly needed the two points with a win. Evans Leting gave his team a much-needed respite from a dreary start of the game bagging vital points and dishing out numerous assist that saw his side rule the second half losing 18-19 in the third but gathering strength to win the fourth at 22-14. Leting and Moseti Chrisantus donated 23 and 11 points respectively to their team’s win while Collins Ooko and M’c Odongo gave their contribution of 16 and 11 points each in Mennonites’ good fight.
Eagle Wings fly
Earlier, former champions Eagle Wings who were missing their trio of Silalei, Samba Mjomba and Angela Okoth (In Maputo with national team) shrugged off resistance from USIU flames to beat them 57-41 in a game that was also evenly contested in the first half.
The students led 10-14 in the first quarter but failed to contain the fast Wings in the rest of the game losing 19-13, 20-4 and 8-10 in the second, third and fourth quarters respectively. Evelyne Achieng and Janet Akoth had 12 and 8 points to their names for Eagle Wings while Zipporah Awino’s game high of 19 points combined with Gloria Manywanda’s 8 points could not do better service than reduce the gap of USIU’s loss.
The first half ended with Tigers trailing 13-15 in the first quarter and 15-16 in the second.
The second half was marred by foul play with match officials forced to step in and calm the rising adrenaline on the court as both sides played like they badly needed the two points with a win. Evans Leting gave his team a much-needed respite from a dreary start of the game bagging vital points and dishing out numerous assist that saw his side rule the second half losing 18-19 in the third but gathering strength to win the fourth at 22-14. Leting and Moseti Chrisantus donated 23 and 11 points respectively to their team’s win while Collins Ooko and M’c Odongo gave their contribution of 16 and 11 points each in Mennonites’ good fight.
Eagle Wings fly
Earlier, former champions Eagle Wings who were missing their trio of Silalei, Samba Mjomba and Angela Okoth (In Maputo with national team) shrugged off resistance from USIU flames to beat them 57-41 in a game that was also evenly contested in the first half.
The students led 10-14 in the first quarter but failed to contain the fast Wings in the rest of the game losing 19-13, 20-4 and 8-10 in the second, third and fourth quarters respectively. Evelyne Achieng and Janet Akoth had 12 and 8 points to their names for Eagle Wings while Zipporah Awino’s game high of 19 points combined with Gloria Manywanda’s 8 points could not do better service than reduce the gap of USIU’s loss.
NIGERIA : Bakare Blames D'Tigers' Loss On Inexperience
The National basketball team Coach, Ayo Bakare, has blamed inexperience for the D' Tigers 55-70 loss to traditional foes Angola in Saturday's semi-final match of the 10th All Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique.
Bakare told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Maputo that his team, compared to their opponents who had been playing together for 10 years, were "green horns and only had a short time to prepare for the Games."
"We prepared as a full team only in the past couple of weeks and we are improving with every match," he said.
NAN reports that the Angolans dominated every area of the game, leaving no space for opposition from the Nigerian team.
Nigeria's male team started their campaign in the tournament on a good note with a 71-63 defeat of Rwanda in their opening match.
The D' Tigers led in the first two quarters of the game but lost concentration and allowed their opponents to gain on them in the last two quarters 14-10, 17-4, 16-22 and 24-27.
Commenting on the opening match, the president, Nigeria Basketball Federation, Tijani Umar, had said that opening games were usually difficult and commended the players for the victory.
"It was a good match. The opening victory will boost the confidence
Bakare told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Maputo that his team, compared to their opponents who had been playing together for 10 years, were "green horns and only had a short time to prepare for the Games."
"We prepared as a full team only in the past couple of weeks and we are improving with every match," he said.
NAN reports that the Angolans dominated every area of the game, leaving no space for opposition from the Nigerian team.
Nigeria's male team started their campaign in the tournament on a good note with a 71-63 defeat of Rwanda in their opening match.
The D' Tigers led in the first two quarters of the game but lost concentration and allowed their opponents to gain on them in the last two quarters 14-10, 17-4, 16-22 and 24-27.
Commenting on the opening match, the president, Nigeria Basketball Federation, Tijani Umar, had said that opening games were usually difficult and commended the players for the victory.
"It was a good match. The opening victory will boost the confidence
11 September 2011
RWANDA : Hoops suffer double loss
All Africa Games
Yesterday
Men
Rwanda 63-71 Nigeria
Women
Rwanda 50-54 Kenya
RWANDA basketball teams suffered disappointing losses in the on-going All Africa Games which is being staged in Maputo, Mozambique
After their 85-69 opening victory over Mali, Rwanda could not live to the dream of securing their second victory in the group stage and lost 63-71 against Nigeria.
Yesterday
Men
Rwanda 63-71 Nigeria
Women
Rwanda 50-54 Kenya
RWANDA basketball teams suffered disappointing losses in the on-going All Africa Games which is being staged in Maputo, Mozambique
After their 85-69 opening victory over Mali, Rwanda could not live to the dream of securing their second victory in the group stage and lost 63-71 against Nigeria.
In the opener, Darius, Bradley Cameroon, Kabangu Kami, Kenneth Gasana and Hamza Ruhezamihigo were all in top form amassing 16, 15 14, 13 and 11 points respectively to send Kavedzija Vecceslav’s side on its maiden victory.
In the women category, Rwanda also extended their poor run of results and failed to go past the quarter finals losing to neighbours Kenya 50-54 to end their medal dream.
Rwanda women team which will be competing in the Afrobasket women championship in Mali next month will now play for the 7th-8th place finish against DR Congo tomorrow.
The men’s basketball team is expected to play Algeria on Monday in their third game of the group stage action.
In a related development, cyclists will take the road this morning for the 145km road race in 10th All-Africa Games.
The cycling team that notched fifth place in the individual time trial has set sight on winning a medal today.
The team’s captain Adrien Niyonshuti yaesterday, said that he is confident about staging a good performance as he bids for a medal at the Games.
Team Rwanda includes Niyonshuti, Nicodem Habiyambere, Emmanuel Rudahunga, Gasore Hategeka, Uwamungu Innocent and Nathan Byukusenge.
09 September 2011
KENYA : Basketball weekend preview
The KBF Premier League continues this weekend with most teams eyeing a playoffs spot that always separate contenders from pretenders in the league. No team is in the mood to surrender any further points when they take on their opponents this weekend.
The first game in the men’s league will see USIU Tigers take on a relegation threatened KCA University at 3 pm at the Nyayo gymnasium on Saturday. The game sets to welcome back the Tigers into the court after a three-week break having bowed to Ulinzi Warriors in their last game. Strathmore Blades tackle Blazers at 4.30 pm hoping to bring to an end their back to back losing streak after falling to KPA and Thunder respectively.
Western Delight welcome Storms at Kakamega Police canteen tomorrow at 10 am and the host will be hoping to complete a double on Ben Oluoch’s side led by Mercy Wanyama.
Eagle Wings despite the absence of their star players like Shani Silalei,Angela Okoth and Samba Mjomba will take on USIU Flames who will also be missing their evergreen guard Hilda Indasi. The game kicks off at 3pm before ISIU Tigers return to the court for their second game of the weekend to square it out with a hard fighting Mennonites.
In the division one league, Nairobi University’s Terror will also be hoping for a double victory over the weekend when they face African Nazarene University on Saturday at 9 am before wrapping their weekend action with a game against Brian Aboge’s Kenya Polytechnic on Sunday at 10.30 am. Umoja too has set double dates with Kenya Polytechnic on Saturday at 10.30 am and trailblazers on Sunday at 9am.
All matches save for the clash between Storms and Western Delight will be at Nyayo Gymnasium.
The first game in the men’s league will see USIU Tigers take on a relegation threatened KCA University at 3 pm at the Nyayo gymnasium on Saturday. The game sets to welcome back the Tigers into the court after a three-week break having bowed to Ulinzi Warriors in their last game. Strathmore Blades tackle Blazers at 4.30 pm hoping to bring to an end their back to back losing streak after falling to KPA and Thunder respectively.
Western Delight welcome Storms at Kakamega Police canteen tomorrow at 10 am and the host will be hoping to complete a double on Ben Oluoch’s side led by Mercy Wanyama.
Eagle Wings despite the absence of their star players like Shani Silalei,Angela Okoth and Samba Mjomba will take on USIU Flames who will also be missing their evergreen guard Hilda Indasi. The game kicks off at 3pm before ISIU Tigers return to the court for their second game of the weekend to square it out with a hard fighting Mennonites.
In the division one league, Nairobi University’s Terror will also be hoping for a double victory over the weekend when they face African Nazarene University on Saturday at 9 am before wrapping their weekend action with a game against Brian Aboge’s Kenya Polytechnic on Sunday at 10.30 am. Umoja too has set double dates with Kenya Polytechnic on Saturday at 10.30 am and trailblazers on Sunday at 9am.
All matches save for the clash between Storms and Western Delight will be at Nyayo Gymnasium.
UGANDA : Eagles, Canons showcase play-off prospects.
Miracle Eagles are not far away from achieving their goal of reaching the MTN-Fuba League play-offs for the very first time. They face UCU Canons at YMCA court today hoping to improve on their 10-2 record thus far.
UCU are also close to comfort following the points deduction suffered by 7UP Falcons with Ndejje University Angels now the main contenders for the fourth place occupied by the former. Weather has been a factor since the second round started with Miracle having to wait 48 hours to beat Youth Heaters 59-34.
Norman Blick and Steven Omony are looking better together each passing day. “Since the beginning of this season, our bench players have delivered,” said Joe Burua, the Miracle coach. Guard Francis Kasekende has been as impressive as the star duo. UCU are playing their first game of the second round and must bury the lengthy lull fast.
Their stars Desmond Owili, Sande Okot and Sudi Ulanga will hope there are no ill-effects from the rest which can derail the rhythm that has taken them to 5-4.Heaters and Ndejje meet in the other Division One game.
UCU are also close to comfort following the points deduction suffered by 7UP Falcons with Ndejje University Angels now the main contenders for the fourth place occupied by the former. Weather has been a factor since the second round started with Miracle having to wait 48 hours to beat Youth Heaters 59-34.
Norman Blick and Steven Omony are looking better together each passing day. “Since the beginning of this season, our bench players have delivered,” said Joe Burua, the Miracle coach. Guard Francis Kasekende has been as impressive as the star duo. UCU are playing their first game of the second round and must bury the lengthy lull fast.
Their stars Desmond Owili, Sande Okot and Sudi Ulanga will hope there are no ill-effects from the rest which can derail the rhythm that has taken them to 5-4.Heaters and Ndejje meet in the other Division One game.
08 September 2011
KENYA : Coast League Now Facing a Venue Hurdle
COAST basketballers were thrown into confusion yesterday following the uncertainty over where they will play their premier league matches this weekend. Kenya Ports Authority and Co-operative bank were to play at the Makande gym but there is an inter-banks tournament sheduled for the venue at the same time.
The Co-op men and women's teams were expected to wrestle with the dockers were according to some quarters supposed to be in Nairobi for the inter-banks event. "What I understand as of now is that Co-op guys are not coming as there is an inter-banks event in Nairobi thatstarts this weekend too" said KPA coach Anthony Ojukwu. Coast Basketball Association chairman Ali Hilmy said they had moved the League to Makande for the sake of fans may now revert to Mombasa Baptist if C o-op fail to make it.
The Co-op men and women's teams were expected to wrestle with the dockers were according to some quarters supposed to be in Nairobi for the inter-banks event. "What I understand as of now is that Co-op guys are not coming as there is an inter-banks event in Nairobi thatstarts this weekend too" said KPA coach Anthony Ojukwu. Coast Basketball Association chairman Ali Hilmy said they had moved the League to Makande for the sake of fans may now revert to Mombasa Baptist if C o-op fail to make it.
07 September 2011
KENYA : Ulinzi - KPA match ends prematurely
The much anticipated clash between Ulinzi Warriors and KPA ended with over 8 minutes left to play in the fourth quarter after tempers flared prompting the center referee Erick Omondi to eject John Apollo after engaging in a scuffle with his KPA opponent, an action that did not go down well with the Warriors’ bench forcing them to throng the court in protest.
That marked the beginning of the end of a game where the referee’s calls were questionable all through and his failure to call on obvious fouls especially those committed by the warriors against the highly tactful KPA.
KPA were yet to make any protest over the official’s calls but after the storming on the court by the Warriors’ bench, KPA Coach Anthony Ojukwu walked to demand an ejection of the entire Ulinzi bench for violating FIBA rules besides requesting that the floodlights be switched on as the lighting in the gymnasium was getting poorer with time.
The center referee held to his decision of ‘play on’ just as the KPA bench did with a ‘no play’ prompting the referee to allow Ulinzi soldiers play against themselves at a time when KPA were leading 50-49 and were even more threatening in the game.
The soldiers buried the ‘donated’ basket to lead 50-51 but still the dockmen could not get into the court to continue with the game ending the game with 8.29 minutes left to play in the fourth quarter.
Coach Anthony Ojukwu had no kind words for the match officials for failing to stamp their authority in the game and being ‘sympathetic’ to Ulinzi but lauded his charges for putting up a good show against the soldiers.
The second clash that also promised to be a real fight for two points was between Strathmore Blades who were pathetic in their clash with Thunder in the Friday night basketball but were out to make amends for the loss against an inconsistent KCB Lions side who were out to revenge their 46-61 loss against the Students in the first leg. The match was called off after both sides refused to play citing poor lighting in the gymnasium.
That marked the beginning of the end of a game where the referee’s calls were questionable all through and his failure to call on obvious fouls especially those committed by the warriors against the highly tactful KPA.
KPA were yet to make any protest over the official’s calls but after the storming on the court by the Warriors’ bench, KPA Coach Anthony Ojukwu walked to demand an ejection of the entire Ulinzi bench for violating FIBA rules besides requesting that the floodlights be switched on as the lighting in the gymnasium was getting poorer with time.
The center referee held to his decision of ‘play on’ just as the KPA bench did with a ‘no play’ prompting the referee to allow Ulinzi soldiers play against themselves at a time when KPA were leading 50-49 and were even more threatening in the game.
The soldiers buried the ‘donated’ basket to lead 50-51 but still the dockmen could not get into the court to continue with the game ending the game with 8.29 minutes left to play in the fourth quarter.
Coach Anthony Ojukwu had no kind words for the match officials for failing to stamp their authority in the game and being ‘sympathetic’ to Ulinzi but lauded his charges for putting up a good show against the soldiers.
The second clash that also promised to be a real fight for two points was between Strathmore Blades who were pathetic in their clash with Thunder in the Friday night basketball but were out to make amends for the loss against an inconsistent KCB Lions side who were out to revenge their 46-61 loss against the Students in the first leg. The match was called off after both sides refused to play citing poor lighting in the gymnasium.
KENYA : Basketball Girls Rock Zimbabwe to Bounce Into Quaters
Kenya national women's basketball team cruised to the quarter-finals after beating Zimbabwe 66-35 yesterday. The Kenyan girls had little opposition as they ran rings around them for the entire session. Amid cheers from a handful of Kenyans, who included National Olympic Committee of Kenya (Noc-K) chairman Kipchoge Keino and secretary general FK. Paul.
The Kenya team went into the offensive immediately after the whistle and led all the way to the finish. The first quarter was the most interesting as Kenyans led by Rose Ouma reduced the Zims to mere passengers. The Kenyan girls sealed the first quarter 20-9 to set the rhythm for the game. They came back in the second quarter more forceful with accurate passes and went into the break 30-14 up.
Zimbabwe tried to turn the tide in the third quarter but the Kenyan girls upped the tempo to increase the tally to 44-23. The fourth quarter was a mere formality for Kenya as they raced to an impressive 66-35 win. Coach Cliff Collins Owuor said as much as they have already made it to the quarters with two matches in hand, they will still play their usual game in their remaining fixtures.
Kenyans face Nigeria and Mozambique in their remaining matches and coach Owuor said there will be no room for complacency. "The more we win the better for us and that is the way we want to go. We are taking the remaining matches very seriously," he said. The coach said they have been improving with every much and hope to be even better in the quarters. Rose Ouma top scored for Kenya with 17 points while Hilda Luvandwa and Angie Akoth tied on 10 each. Silale Shani had 7. G. Givondu topscored for Zimbabwe with 7 points.
The Kenya team went into the offensive immediately after the whistle and led all the way to the finish. The first quarter was the most interesting as Kenyans led by Rose Ouma reduced the Zims to mere passengers. The Kenyan girls sealed the first quarter 20-9 to set the rhythm for the game. They came back in the second quarter more forceful with accurate passes and went into the break 30-14 up.
Zimbabwe tried to turn the tide in the third quarter but the Kenyan girls upped the tempo to increase the tally to 44-23. The fourth quarter was a mere formality for Kenya as they raced to an impressive 66-35 win. Coach Cliff Collins Owuor said as much as they have already made it to the quarters with two matches in hand, they will still play their usual game in their remaining fixtures.
Kenyans face Nigeria and Mozambique in their remaining matches and coach Owuor said there will be no room for complacency. "The more we win the better for us and that is the way we want to go. We are taking the remaining matches very seriously," he said. The coach said they have been improving with every much and hope to be even better in the quarters. Rose Ouma top scored for Kenya with 17 points while Hilda Luvandwa and Angie Akoth tied on 10 each. Silale Shani had 7. G. Givondu topscored for Zimbabwe with 7 points.
UGANDA : Here are the true Warriors
By Usher Komugisha
FUBA LEAGUE
Today at 6:30pm
Miracle v Heaters
Sunday results
Men, Division 1
Nkumba 52 Warriors 84
Division 2
Kings 51 MBC 36
Division 3
Jackets 61 Crane 62
UPDF 48 Jammers 105
Michael 0 Rez Life 20 (walk over)
Women
A-1 83 Amazon 36
Rangers 57 KCC 61
FOUR Warriors’ players were in double figures as the Kyambogo side thrashed the Nkumba Marines 84-52 on Sunday to dent the latter’s playoffs hopes in the basketball post season later this year.
Ivan Enabu, Henry Malinga, Michael Kariuki and Eric Malinga sunk 16, 14, 12 and 10 points respectively for Warriors to seal an 11-1 record, lightening up their playoffs position as the Marines recorded their worst record of 4-7.
“We have togetherness and maturity as a team which has and will continue to help us win many games,” revealed the confident Warriors’ coach Mande Juruni.
Juruni displayed what many will continue to refer to as Warriors’ strength - the teamwork and bench ability of a side that has shown consistency this season so far.
That Warriors started the game without stars Ronnie Kasewu, Eric Malinga and Stephen Okias saw them punished by an alert Nkumba side that finished the first quarter with a 20-13 early lead.
However, the introduction of the trio and Ivan Enabu saw a strong comeback in the second quarter as they dominated 23-7. Consistency saw the Warriors run away with 19-13 and 29-12 leads in the second half of the game.
“Warriors have better match-ups than us because they are big in size and they were shooting more than we did. This loss takes us out of the playoffs,” said a troubled Marines’ coach Timothy Odeke.
In the women’s category, Flavia Oketcho dropped a game high 20 points to inspire the KCC Leopards who maintained an unbeaten run after beating KIU Rangers 61-57.
FUBA LEAGUE
Today at 6:30pm
Miracle v Heaters
Sunday results
Men, Division 1
Nkumba 52 Warriors 84
Division 2
Kings 51 MBC 36
Division 3
Jackets 61 Crane 62
UPDF 48 Jammers 105
Michael 0 Rez Life 20 (walk over)
Women
A-1 83 Amazon 36
Rangers 57 KCC 61
FOUR Warriors’ players were in double figures as the Kyambogo side thrashed the Nkumba Marines 84-52 on Sunday to dent the latter’s playoffs hopes in the basketball post season later this year.
Ivan Enabu, Henry Malinga, Michael Kariuki and Eric Malinga sunk 16, 14, 12 and 10 points respectively for Warriors to seal an 11-1 record, lightening up their playoffs position as the Marines recorded their worst record of 4-7.
“We have togetherness and maturity as a team which has and will continue to help us win many games,” revealed the confident Warriors’ coach Mande Juruni.
Juruni displayed what many will continue to refer to as Warriors’ strength - the teamwork and bench ability of a side that has shown consistency this season so far.
That Warriors started the game without stars Ronnie Kasewu, Eric Malinga and Stephen Okias saw them punished by an alert Nkumba side that finished the first quarter with a 20-13 early lead.
However, the introduction of the trio and Ivan Enabu saw a strong comeback in the second quarter as they dominated 23-7. Consistency saw the Warriors run away with 19-13 and 29-12 leads in the second half of the game.
“Warriors have better match-ups than us because they are big in size and they were shooting more than we did. This loss takes us out of the playoffs,” said a troubled Marines’ coach Timothy Odeke.
In the women’s category, Flavia Oketcho dropped a game high 20 points to inspire the KCC Leopards who maintained an unbeaten run after beating KIU Rangers 61-57.
RWANDA : Lady Hoops lose second consecutive game
All Africa GamesWomen basketball
Yesterday
Rwanda 59-62 Mali
Today
Rwanda vs Senegal
RWANDA women basketball lost their fourth match of the group stage action against bottom-placed Mali in the basketball competition of the All Africa games being staged in Maputo.
The women hoops lost the game 59-62, a result that dents their chances of reaching the quarter final stage of the competition. A day earlier, the team had also lost to Angola 57-34.
Following those two back to back defeats, Rwanda needs to win today’s final group game Senegal if they are to resurrect their chances of staying further in the competition.
Rwanda has now won twice and lost twice in the competition. Meanwhile, men’s basketball, basketball, NPC, beach volleyball and Taekwondo are expected to touch base in Maputo this morning.
06 September 2011
RWANDA : Lady Hoops Lose to Angola in Maputo
RWANDA women basketball lost their third match of the group stage action against Angola in the basketball competition of the All Africa games being staged in Maputo.
The women hoops lost the game 34-57 and afterwards the team's assistant coach Jean Claude Rutabayire slammed the games organizers for poor organisation which according to him was partly to blamed for the loss.
Rutabayire said yesterday, "Our performance was not at par compared to our previous matches. The players played poorly but for genuine reasons."
"We spent over two hours in a traffic jam; players never had breakfast. The organization of the games is very poor to the extent that essential necessities are not really given much attention.
"With two matches left against Mali and Senegal, we hope to win both to reach the quarter finals. The morale of our players is high and this keeps us focused on the task ahead," added Rutabayire.
Rwanda conceded the group lead to Angola.
Rwanda has won twice and lost one in the competition. They face Mali this afternoon before winding up the group stage against Senegal on Wednesday.
All Africa Games
Women basketball
Yesterday
Rwanda 34-57 Angola
The women hoops lost the game 34-57 and afterwards the team's assistant coach Jean Claude Rutabayire slammed the games organizers for poor organisation which according to him was partly to blamed for the loss.
Rutabayire said yesterday, "Our performance was not at par compared to our previous matches. The players played poorly but for genuine reasons."
"We spent over two hours in a traffic jam; players never had breakfast. The organization of the games is very poor to the extent that essential necessities are not really given much attention.
"With two matches left against Mali and Senegal, we hope to win both to reach the quarter finals. The morale of our players is high and this keeps us focused on the task ahead," added Rutabayire.
Rwanda conceded the group lead to Angola.
Rwanda has won twice and lost one in the competition. They face Mali this afternoon before winding up the group stage against Senegal on Wednesday.
All Africa Games
Women basketball
Yesterday
Rwanda 34-57 Angola
RD CONGO : Le Basket vacance s’est clôturé en beauté à Mbudi chez le Conseiller
Ouverte au début des grandes vacances, l’Académie de basket-ball de Kinshasa ’’Abakin’’, centre d’initiation et de perfectionnement des jeunes aux fondamentaux de basket-ball, s’est clôturé le vendredi 2 septembre dernier à Mbudi Nature dans un site particulier ‘’Chez le Conseiller’’.
Plus de 50 jeunes toutes catégories confondues ( garçons et filles ) ont pu bénéficier gratuitement de l’apprentissage du basket-ball. La séance de clôture a été supervisée par Jolie Kapita, coach de BC Arc-En- Ciel. On a noté la présence de Mme Hélène Mputu Mwawatadi, épouse du président de la Fédération de Basket-ball du Congo. Elle était accompagnée de quelques vieilles gloires du basket-ball féminin notamment Adèle Kamanga, Kapinga et autres.
Saluant de deux mains l’initiative de notre confrère Alain Salu, journaliste sportif à Digital Congo ( Niveau 1 Fiba-Afrique), Mme Hélène a remis des fournitures scolaires aux vacanciers qui ont pris part à ce camp de basket. Les prochains sont prévus à la Noël et pendant les grandes vacances de l’année scolaire 2011-2012.
Plus de 50 jeunes toutes catégories confondues ( garçons et filles ) ont pu bénéficier gratuitement de l’apprentissage du basket-ball. La séance de clôture a été supervisée par Jolie Kapita, coach de BC Arc-En- Ciel. On a noté la présence de Mme Hélène Mputu Mwawatadi, épouse du président de la Fédération de Basket-ball du Congo. Elle était accompagnée de quelques vieilles gloires du basket-ball féminin notamment Adèle Kamanga, Kapinga et autres.
Saluant de deux mains l’initiative de notre confrère Alain Salu, journaliste sportif à Digital Congo ( Niveau 1 Fiba-Afrique), Mme Hélène a remis des fournitures scolaires aux vacanciers qui ont pris part à ce camp de basket. Les prochains sont prévus à la Noël et pendant les grandes vacances de l’année scolaire 2011-2012.
UGANDA : FUBA to adjust to weather
By Usher Komugisha
Saturday results
Men, Division 1
Miracle v Heaters
(postponed to Tuesday
Division 2
Vegetarian 65 Stormers 57
Division 3
Planet 37 Shooters 43
Sharing 49 B’court 45
L’stone 63 Emperors58
TLC 55 Air Force 44
Women
Cubs 47 Rhino 60
FOR a league that thrives on outdoor courts, the basketball fraternity is going to have to adjust to the weather forecast for the remaining part of the 2011 season.
The game’s governing body-FUBA postponed the Saturday encounter between Miracle Eagles and Heaters to tomorrow (Tuesday) after a heavy downpour on Saturday evening made it impossible for both teams to play on the wet tarmac surface.
“We waited for the rain to stop for about an hour but it continued drizzling so we concluded that it was best we postpone the game between Miracle and Heaters to Tuesday,” revealed William Musaazi, the chairman technical committee.
Saturday results
Men, Division 1
Miracle v Heaters
(postponed to Tuesday
Division 2
Vegetarian 65 Stormers 57
Division 3
Planet 37 Shooters 43
Sharing 49 B’court 45
L’stone 63 Emperors58
TLC 55 Air Force 44
Women
Cubs 47 Rhino 60
FOR a league that thrives on outdoor courts, the basketball fraternity is going to have to adjust to the weather forecast for the remaining part of the 2011 season.
The game’s governing body-FUBA postponed the Saturday encounter between Miracle Eagles and Heaters to tomorrow (Tuesday) after a heavy downpour on Saturday evening made it impossible for both teams to play on the wet tarmac surface.
“We waited for the rain to stop for about an hour but it continued drizzling so we concluded that it was best we postpone the game between Miracle and Heaters to Tuesday,” revealed William Musaazi, the chairman technical committee.
05 September 2011
LESOTHO : Independence Tournament 2011
The Lesotho Basketball Association shall be hosting a 2-day invitational tournament from the 1st to the 2nd of October 2011 in Maseru, Lesotho.
This tournament will include teams from Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland, and South Africa.
It is with great pleasure that we extend this invitation to your team and request that you come and participate in this tournament as we continue to strengthen the ties between the Lesotho Basketball Association and your team in an effort to ensure the growth of basketball to the benefit of all. On this note, we encourage you to also extend this invitation to any teams in your regions whom you feel may add value to this competition.
Registration for the tournament is R300 per team, payable on arrival to the tournament. Please confirm your intention to participate by Close of Business (17:00) Friday 16th September 2011. Late confirmation will not be accepted.
Accommodation will be arranged for all players and team officials at the cost of about R100 to R200 per person, per night. Arrangements for accommodation shall be made by the Lesotho Basketball Association upon receipt of the full payment by any team that requires such an arrangement, no later than Friday 23rd September.
All future correspondence shall be carried out through the tournament organizer Mr. Ratsolo Molupe on behalf of the LBA League Committee. For any further enquiries or assistance of any sort, please contact Mr. Molupe at the following email address; moluper@etl.co.ls.
We look forward to seeing you at the tournament.
Kind regards,
Molupe Mothepu
Treasurer
National Basketball League Committee
Lesotho Basketball Association
This tournament will include teams from Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland, and South Africa.
It is with great pleasure that we extend this invitation to your team and request that you come and participate in this tournament as we continue to strengthen the ties between the Lesotho Basketball Association and your team in an effort to ensure the growth of basketball to the benefit of all. On this note, we encourage you to also extend this invitation to any teams in your regions whom you feel may add value to this competition.
Registration for the tournament is R300 per team, payable on arrival to the tournament. Please confirm your intention to participate by Close of Business (17:00) Friday 16th September 2011. Late confirmation will not be accepted.
Accommodation will be arranged for all players and team officials at the cost of about R100 to R200 per person, per night. Arrangements for accommodation shall be made by the Lesotho Basketball Association upon receipt of the full payment by any team that requires such an arrangement, no later than Friday 23rd September.
All future correspondence shall be carried out through the tournament organizer Mr. Ratsolo Molupe on behalf of the LBA League Committee. For any further enquiries or assistance of any sort, please contact Mr. Molupe at the following email address; moluper@etl.co.ls.
We look forward to seeing you at the tournament.
Kind regards,
Molupe Mothepu
Treasurer
National Basketball League Committee
Lesotho Basketball Association
KENYA : Laiser Hill, Tigoi Girls crowned
Laiser Hill and Tigoi Girls destroyed their opponents in the girls’ and boys’ categories as Kenya lifted basketball titles for the ninth year running at the Brookside East Africa secondary school games on Saturday.
National champions Tigoi successfully defended their title with a 62-45 final score against SOS from Burundi, while Laiser Hill Academy bagged the boys’ trophy for a record sixth time after they defeated Bentiu of South Sudan 80-67 in a repeat of last year’s final in Nakuru.
“We have been waiting for this moment. We have had a tough time making it to the final, let alone winning the title. We will be back to defend it next year,” said an elated Laiser Hill coach Anthony Kirimi.
02 September 2011
KENYA : Thunder face Blades as Friday night basketball returns
By NOEL ROBERT OUMA
The fifth edition of Basketball night will be played at the Nyayo Gymnasium tonight starting from 6 pm and all teams meeting tonight are spoiling for fights. The first battle will be between players of Nation Media Group and those of Radio Africa Group.
Both teams have set up their squads to show their level of commitment in tonight’s game. The Nation side will be led by Munene Nyaga, Mark Masai, Peter Bwire among other media personalities and it will be under Samuel Mogesi as its manager. Radio Africa will not be left behind. Nick Odhiambo who has requested his fans to call him ‘Baby Shaq’,Sir Jalang’o,Shaffie Weru, Gaetano Kagwe among others but they seem to be under no manager and it will be interesting to see how their bench will be run.
The final game will see Thunder take on Strathmore Blades in a clash both sides are promising to be a must win. Coach Tonny Ochieng’s charges are in no happy mood after their narrow loss to KPA last weekend and have promised to take the battle to Thunder’s own half while Thunder will be banking on their clean sheet against Blades over the past two seasons. Stakes are high in this particular game.
Both teams have lost 6 games so far this season and any further loss will soil their matches to the playoffs.
Ronald Gundo returns after close to a two-month absence and his power and skills will be valuable to the varsity side boasting of composed forwards like Cliff Odhaimbo,Arthur Ameso and Joseph Owino. Thunder will be led by their evergreen guard Griffin Ligare who will do everything to ruin the party for his opponents while James Omune will be out to ensure Blades feel the pain of his three point shots. Charges are sh.200 or self- declared Very Expensive Persons and sh.300 for the VIP.
The fifth edition of Basketball night will be played at the Nyayo Gymnasium tonight starting from 6 pm and all teams meeting tonight are spoiling for fights. The first battle will be between players of Nation Media Group and those of Radio Africa Group.
Both teams have set up their squads to show their level of commitment in tonight’s game. The Nation side will be led by Munene Nyaga, Mark Masai, Peter Bwire among other media personalities and it will be under Samuel Mogesi as its manager. Radio Africa will not be left behind. Nick Odhiambo who has requested his fans to call him ‘Baby Shaq’,Sir Jalang’o,Shaffie Weru, Gaetano Kagwe among others but they seem to be under no manager and it will be interesting to see how their bench will be run.
The final game will see Thunder take on Strathmore Blades in a clash both sides are promising to be a must win. Coach Tonny Ochieng’s charges are in no happy mood after their narrow loss to KPA last weekend and have promised to take the battle to Thunder’s own half while Thunder will be banking on their clean sheet against Blades over the past two seasons. Stakes are high in this particular game.
Both teams have lost 6 games so far this season and any further loss will soil their matches to the playoffs.
Ronald Gundo returns after close to a two-month absence and his power and skills will be valuable to the varsity side boasting of composed forwards like Cliff Odhaimbo,Arthur Ameso and Joseph Owino. Thunder will be led by their evergreen guard Griffin Ligare who will do everything to ruin the party for his opponents while James Omune will be out to ensure Blades feel the pain of his three point shots. Charges are sh.200 or self- declared Very Expensive Persons and sh.300 for the VIP.
KENYA : NBA Play-Offs Throw-Off On October 1
THE 2011 Nairobi Basketball Association play offs throw- off on October 1. The post season games that will determined the provincial league winners tip off on the October 1- 2 weekend at Railways Club on a home and away format.
Thereafter matches will be on a best of five sets series. The team with the best record claim the title.The finalists in the men's category proceed to the national play-offs while the women will get a direct ticket to the women's Premier League.
Elsewhere league leaders Kenya Airways prevailed 60-59 over Old Pirates. Barclays Bank rolled over Neosasa Morans 61-42 and Baraka Xtreme 48-39 over the weekend. Old Pirates bet Multi Media University 57-42. Strathmore University pipped Don Bosco 57-50 and Legacy 59-45. KU Pirates hit Baraka Xtreme 55-48. Multi Media University whipped Aquinas High 69-23. Heroes beat Frfiends of Basketball 53-35. Dolphins lost 43-52 to Little Prince, KU Pirates rocked Friends 63-43 while Little Prince beat Neosasa 55-41.
Thereafter matches will be on a best of five sets series. The team with the best record claim the title.The finalists in the men's category proceed to the national play-offs while the women will get a direct ticket to the women's Premier League.
Elsewhere league leaders Kenya Airways prevailed 60-59 over Old Pirates. Barclays Bank rolled over Neosasa Morans 61-42 and Baraka Xtreme 48-39 over the weekend. Old Pirates bet Multi Media University 57-42. Strathmore University pipped Don Bosco 57-50 and Legacy 59-45. KU Pirates hit Baraka Xtreme 55-48. Multi Media University whipped Aquinas High 69-23. Heroes beat Frfiends of Basketball 53-35. Dolphins lost 43-52 to Little Prince, KU Pirates rocked Friends 63-43 while Little Prince beat Neosasa 55-41.
NIGERIA : Mohammed Thumbs Up d' Tigers Third Place Finish
Former national basketball team player Abdulrahman Mohammed has lauded the performance of the national team at the just concluded Afrobasket championships held in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
The third place finish, guarantees the team a spot in the London 2012 Olympic Games Men's basketball tournament play-offs.
The ex-D'Tigers player noted that it was sad to see Nigeria lost to a struggling Angolan side in the semi-final but that he felt relieved after seeing Tunisia stop Angola in the final.
According to Mohammed, "the bronze like is better than nothing because the last outing we couldn't get to this level with all the hype of the US-based coaches and players, now we have done well under our local coach.
"With this bronze, we now have the opportunity of qualifying for the Olympic. I am glad Angola didn't win because it is time for their dominancy to end".
The third place finish, guarantees the team a spot in the London 2012 Olympic Games Men's basketball tournament play-offs.
The ex-D'Tigers player noted that it was sad to see Nigeria lost to a struggling Angolan side in the semi-final but that he felt relieved after seeing Tunisia stop Angola in the final.
According to Mohammed, "the bronze like is better than nothing because the last outing we couldn't get to this level with all the hype of the US-based coaches and players, now we have done well under our local coach.
"With this bronze, we now have the opportunity of qualifying for the Olympic. I am glad Angola didn't win because it is time for their dominancy to end".
UGANDA : DMark Power seek to avenge loss to Falcons
WEDNESDAY RESULTS
Div. III: City Oil 74-55Emperors
Div. III: Jackets 56-52Air Force
Today at YMCA
M: Power vs. Falcons (8.30pm)
W: Crane vs. Amazon (6.30pm)
JACINTA ODONGO
The climax of the MTN-Fuba first round brought a less than impressive result for champions DMark Power as they lost 79-68 to 7UP Falcons. Today, they return to YMCA court hoping for a better result in their push for an early play-off spot whereas Falcons want to pull clear of relegation once more.
Both won their second round openers quite comfortably last weekend but this is the game the two most successful teams in local basketball look forward to most.
Power statistician Adam Kakuru feels confident. “We are looking forward to the challenge,” he said. They will need Isaac Afidra and Michael Kojo to contest more on the inside in addition to Ben Komakech resurrecting
Div. III: City Oil 74-55Emperors
Div. III: Jackets 56-52Air Force
Today at YMCA
M: Power vs. Falcons (8.30pm)
W: Crane vs. Amazon (6.30pm)
JACINTA ODONGO
The climax of the MTN-Fuba first round brought a less than impressive result for champions DMark Power as they lost 79-68 to 7UP Falcons. Today, they return to YMCA court hoping for a better result in their push for an early play-off spot whereas Falcons want to pull clear of relegation once more.
Both won their second round openers quite comfortably last weekend but this is the game the two most successful teams in local basketball look forward to most.
Power statistician Adam Kakuru feels confident. “We are looking forward to the challenge,” he said. They will need Isaac Afidra and Michael Kojo to contest more on the inside in addition to Ben Komakech resurrecting
