THE AND1 team, a well known street basketball team from United States of America, is expected to jet in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday ahead of a scheduled AND1 East African Tour of five African cities.
AND1 team is visiting Tanzania following their maiden tour last year when they showcased their basketball prowess by beating Dar All Stars at a well-attended basketball derby held at Leaders Club in the city. Among the star players expected to feature in the tour from the AND1 team include Hot Sauce, Spyda, Werm, 50, Amazing and Highrizer.
They are set to amaze basketball lovers with their breathtaking range of skills and stunts when they embark on a series of international friendlies against local teams in Mwanza, Arusha and Dar es Salaam under the sponsorship of Sprite. AND1 is a legendary American street basketball group, recognised and celebrated around the world as the embodiment of the basketball culture.
Best known for their high energy action and redefinition of all things basketball, AND1 has over the years defined the urban expression platform of all things basketball. Sprite is the sole sponsor of the AND1 East African Tour. Coca-Cola has since 2010 sponsored three youth basketball clinics and the initial one was held at Don Bosco under the supervision of Tanzania basketball icon Hasheem Thabeet, the only Tanzanian that has managed to find his way to the high ranks of professional basketball in the US.
To further inspire the youths, Coca-Cola in November 2010 sent three outstanding basketball players to attend a two-week basketball course in the US where they got rare opportunity to rub shoulders with professional players and experienced coaches. Basketball enjoys huge following, especially among youth and adults in the US.
Other Sprite Slam activities on calendar this year are the U-16 League, Hasheem U-17 clinic, Regional finals, Grand Concert and Zone V Championships.
30 April 2012
SOMALIA : Somali NOC asks zone V basketball Federation to help develop basketball in Somalia
With Somalia currently emerging from decades of conflicts, the country’s
national Olympic committee has asked the Zone V basketball Federation to help
Somali basketball recover from the past wounds and setbacks caused by the
long-running lawlessness in the horn of African country.
The demand was delivered by Somali National Olympic committee senior vice president for international relations Duran Ahmed Farah during a meeting with Zone V secretary General and Kenyan basketball Federation Secretary General Mr. Vitalis Gode in Nairobi over night on Saturday.
“The secretary General has fully pledged that his Zonal association will help Somalia get international level courses for coaching, administration and refereeing in a bid to promote Somali basketball in terms of both techniques and administration” the senior vice president told the media upon arrival in Mogadishu on Sunday.
He said that Zone V official welcomed Somali NOC’s request to lift the fine imposed on Somali Basketball Federation when it disappeared from the Zonal competition last year adding that he was very hopeful that the fine will be cancelled as soon as possible.
Mean while, the Somali National Olympic committee senior vice president was invited to address at a colorful ceremony where Kenyan basketball federation was awarding players, coaches and other individuals for their role in recent basketball competitions in Kenya.
During his address at the ceremony Mr. Duran gave more details on basketball in Somalia which was one of the frontrunner countries in terms of Africa’s basketball before the country collapsed into chaos just two decades ago.
The Somali NOC official’s ten minute-long address had attracted the full attention of all who were present at the Kenyan basketball ceremony last night.
By Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar
The demand was delivered by Somali National Olympic committee senior vice president for international relations Duran Ahmed Farah during a meeting with Zone V secretary General and Kenyan basketball Federation Secretary General Mr. Vitalis Gode in Nairobi over night on Saturday.
“The secretary General has fully pledged that his Zonal association will help Somalia get international level courses for coaching, administration and refereeing in a bid to promote Somali basketball in terms of both techniques and administration” the senior vice president told the media upon arrival in Mogadishu on Sunday.
He said that Zone V official welcomed Somali NOC’s request to lift the fine imposed on Somali Basketball Federation when it disappeared from the Zonal competition last year adding that he was very hopeful that the fine will be cancelled as soon as possible.
Mean while, the Somali National Olympic committee senior vice president was invited to address at a colorful ceremony where Kenyan basketball federation was awarding players, coaches and other individuals for their role in recent basketball competitions in Kenya.
During his address at the ceremony Mr. Duran gave more details on basketball in Somalia which was one of the frontrunner countries in terms of Africa’s basketball before the country collapsed into chaos just two decades ago.
The Somali NOC official’s ten minute-long address had attracted the full attention of all who were present at the Kenyan basketball ceremony last night.
By Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar
UGANDA : UCU Canons crush arch rivals Ndejje University in FUBA league
UCU Canons in action at YMCA in Kampala
UCU Canons hammered their archrivals Ndejje University Angels 78-66 in the FUBA league on April 15 at YMCA.
UCU Canons showcased brilliant passing of the ball and endurance till the final second, to put Ndejje Angels down right from the first quarter which ended at 24-13. Then they kept a powerful lead of over five points throughout the second quarter to end it at 44-37.
However, in the third, Ndejje bounced back levelling with Canons.
Pressure mounted both between the players and coaches while the Ndejje fans went electrified by the thrilling comeback.
Canons’ Desmond Owili was brought on after January Naftary was sent off. His dismissal turned out to be a blessing in disguise since Owili inspired the Canons to regain their lead of five points. Owili scored crucial four points immediately he was brought on court and calmed the players and coach. The canons regained confidence in their play and wrapped a well deserved win of 76-66.
“We are getting to work together as a team after losing our first game. We were disorganised but now we are going back to our winning ways,” Owili said after the game.
Assistant coach Frankline Ochieng was delighted by finishing top in the ‘tough game’.
“We knew we would win but not by such a wide margin,” he said.
Meanwhile Lady Canons are back at sweeping the competition after thrashing Nkumba Lady Marines 49-12 on April 14. The performance notwithstanding, the ladies were convinced they should have done better than that.
“The game drained us a lot because we were playing in the hot midday sun. We have always played late evening or at night,” Angella Namirimu, Lady Canons captain, said.
UCU JV is still failing to grab victory in the first games after falling at the hands of Diamonds 51-58, a team they beat throughout last season.
Coach Nicholas Natuhereza was disappointed by the team’s lack of aggression in the game.
“Players put in poor effort, for they played casually. They started the game poorly but failed to recover,” Natuhereza said.
ZAMBIA : Zambia Basketball Association Southern League
Return of the Looters???? 2 games played and they are one of the 3 unbeaten teams in the league so far !!! A team which was faced with demotion last season, the showed that the mean business this year after beating the Buffaloes 78-76 in a very interesting Much played at Nasdec on Sunday afternoon ,Defending National Champions Heroes suffered they second defect of the season after they were beate...n by the Green Eagles 74-73, Songi Mwanza would have won the game for Heroes but he missed the Last 2 foul shots that who give them victory or send the game to overtime .
Robert Munatamba was a very happy man after the spartan got there first win of the season after beating the Hawks in over time .
Napsa hurricanes also got there second win of the season after beating the Unza pacers 67-64 in a game which could have gone either way in the last 60sec.
Magic made short work of the legends ,
in the ladies League , the Shells beat the Rim oilers 54-33 and the Green BBuffaloes beat the lootress in another interesting game Ladies match played yesterday.
in the B league the were wins for the Newcomers Blazers and Buffaloes B who beat the Denvors and Nkwazi.
Robert Munatamba was a very happy man after the spartan got there first win of the season after beating the Hawks in over time .
Napsa hurricanes also got there second win of the season after beating the Unza pacers 67-64 in a game which could have gone either way in the last 60sec.
Magic made short work of the legends ,
in the ladies League , the Shells beat the Rim oilers 54-33 and the Green BBuffaloes beat the lootress in another interesting game Ladies match played yesterday.
in the B league the were wins for the Newcomers Blazers and Buffaloes B who beat the Denvors and Nkwazi.
GHANA : Greater Accra Basketball League
Greater Accra Basketball League reults Day 4.
Warriors x Tema Youth 70-75
Holy Famile x Braves 40-78
Reformers x Panthers 54-52
Police x Magic 66-50
Warriors x Tema Youth 70-75
Holy Famile x Braves 40-78
Reformers x Panthers 54-52
Police x Magic 66-50
| POS | TEAM | P | W | L | For | Ag | Pts | Strk | Last5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | POLICE | 4 | 3 | 1 | 276 | 224 | 7 | 1 | WWLW | |
| 2 | WARRIORS | 4 | 2 | 2 | 257 | 258 | 6 | -1 | WLWL | |
| 3 | BRAVES | 3 | 3 | 0 | 218 | 156 | 6 | 3 | WWW | |
| 4 | TEMA YOUTH | 3 | 3 | 0 | 199 | 169 | 6 | 3 | WWW | |
| 5 | REFORMERS | 4 | 1 | 3 | 201 | 237 | 5 | 1 | LLLW | |
| 6 | HOLY FAMILY | 4 | 1 | 3 | 195 | 243 | 5 | -2 | LWLL | |
| 7 | PANTHERS | 4 | 1 | 3 | 194 | 229 | 5 | -1 | LLWL | |
| 8 | MAGIC | 4 | 1 | 3 | 189 | 213 | 5 | -3 | WLLL |
KENYA : Zetech humbled by Don Bosco in NBA League
Updated on 29/04/12 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Zetech College was beaten by Don Bosco 77 – 48 in a tight match that was played on Sunday afternoon at the Railways Sports Club in the ongoing Nairobi Basketball Association League.
In the first quarter , Don Bosco displayed their supremacy by acquiring 21 points against Zetech’s 9. Zetech enjoyed some moments of brilliance on the court that included slam dunks but the technical superiority and composure by Don Bosco was enough to outwit their spectaculars .
In the second quarter, Zetech were more cautious of Don Bosco and both teams managed to score 11 points each ending the quarter with scores at 20 for Zetech while Don Bosco led with 32 points.
Zetech looked more rejuvenated in the third quarter earning 13 points against Don Bosco’s 11. This was however not enough to change the game since Don Bosco still led with a total of 42 points against Zetech’s 33.Don Bosco then sealed the day in the final proceedings when they blew Zetech away amassing a total of 35 points against Zetech’s 15.
Don Bosco head coach Steven Sassi was impressed by his sides performance but also acknowledged that Zetech was a good team that only needed more experience, “they are a young team. They used all their tricks in the 1st and 2nd quarter, we took advantage of that and took the game to them, that is what won the day for us.’
Job Munene the Zetech tactician conceded defeat stating that Don Bosco were the better side.
“They capitalized on the fact they are more experienced in this league (NBA).we have only one player who has played at this level, the rest are fresh faces. The turnovers also cost us especially in the last quarter. I intend to take the pieces together and with time I know we shall be stronger.’’
Don Bosco has not lost any match so far this season in the NBA League.
In the first quarter , Don Bosco displayed their supremacy by acquiring 21 points against Zetech’s 9. Zetech enjoyed some moments of brilliance on the court that included slam dunks but the technical superiority and composure by Don Bosco was enough to outwit their spectaculars .
In the second quarter, Zetech were more cautious of Don Bosco and both teams managed to score 11 points each ending the quarter with scores at 20 for Zetech while Don Bosco led with 32 points.
Zetech looked more rejuvenated in the third quarter earning 13 points against Don Bosco’s 11. This was however not enough to change the game since Don Bosco still led with a total of 42 points against Zetech’s 33.Don Bosco then sealed the day in the final proceedings when they blew Zetech away amassing a total of 35 points against Zetech’s 15.
Don Bosco head coach Steven Sassi was impressed by his sides performance but also acknowledged that Zetech was a good team that only needed more experience, “they are a young team. They used all their tricks in the 1st and 2nd quarter, we took advantage of that and took the game to them, that is what won the day for us.’
Job Munene the Zetech tactician conceded defeat stating that Don Bosco were the better side.
“They capitalized on the fact they are more experienced in this league (NBA).we have only one player who has played at this level, the rest are fresh faces. The turnovers also cost us especially in the last quarter. I intend to take the pieces together and with time I know we shall be stronger.’’
Don Bosco has not lost any match so far this season in the NBA League.
KENYA : Co-op Bank open season with win over MMUST
Updated on 30/04/12 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
University side Masinde Muliro on Sunday scared Co-operative bank in the ongoing Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League in a match the reigning champions narrowly won 83 – 77 at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium as the basketball league kicked off.
The students were charged up in the last game of the day and by the 1st quarter they led their more physical superior opponents 21 – 19. In the 2nd quarter the two teams were head to head but Masinde Muliro managed to take the quarter by a single point 22-23 points. The total points at the end of the quarter saw Co- op bank trail the Kakamega based students 41 – 44.
The home side Cop-Bank was more physical and aggressive in their approach in the third quarter with a comeback that earned them a 18-15 win. At the end of the 3rd quarter both teams were level on 59 points inviting a thrilling final quarter.
The final moments of the match were punctuated by tension with both ends keen to avoid mistakes that could punish them in the end. But Cooperative Bank pinned the pressure on the students with experience and capitalizing on their errors in defense to win the quarter 24- 18 and take home the match.
Co-op bank head coach Cary Odhiambo speaking after the match was a relieved but acknowledged the students had given them a run for their money,
“They were a very good competition making us work hard for our victory. They held on very wel in the 1st and 2nd quarters but in the 3rd quarter we managed to step up the defence and we were able to win.’’
Co – op bank will be meeting KCB Lions on Friday evening and Odhiambo hopes for a good result, “We are going to prepare well and hope for the best.’’
Meanwhile Masinde Muliro tactician Abel Wafula commenting on the defeat was content with his side performance but was already sounding the drums for the next match against Co-op bank, to be played their home turf in Kakamega,
“We shall be at home when we meet next time and we shall be waiting for them. We had beaten them in the last encounter so they were under the pressure to perform this time round.’’ He also mentioned that it was in the 3rd quarter that they lost the match,
“they came into the 3rd quarter more physical and we had some defensive lapses and that enabled them to come back.
Alex Lugasi the Masinde Muliro point guard had an impressive outing managing to score an impressive eight, 3 point shots. Masinde Muliro went home with 3 points from the weekend having gotten 2 points from a walkover against Mennonites and a point from the loss against Co-op bank.
Other matches of the day saw KCB Lions beat Terror 72 – 46. Nairobi Aviation went down narrowly to Kenya Airports Authority 44 – 46. In the ladies matches Storms managed to beat Gladiators 41 – 42 while debutants Safe Spaces senior team were beaten by Western delight 45 – 67.
The students were charged up in the last game of the day and by the 1st quarter they led their more physical superior opponents 21 – 19. In the 2nd quarter the two teams were head to head but Masinde Muliro managed to take the quarter by a single point 22-23 points. The total points at the end of the quarter saw Co- op bank trail the Kakamega based students 41 – 44.
The home side Cop-Bank was more physical and aggressive in their approach in the third quarter with a comeback that earned them a 18-15 win. At the end of the 3rd quarter both teams were level on 59 points inviting a thrilling final quarter.
The final moments of the match were punctuated by tension with both ends keen to avoid mistakes that could punish them in the end. But Cooperative Bank pinned the pressure on the students with experience and capitalizing on their errors in defense to win the quarter 24- 18 and take home the match.
Co-op bank head coach Cary Odhiambo speaking after the match was a relieved but acknowledged the students had given them a run for their money,
“They were a very good competition making us work hard for our victory. They held on very wel in the 1st and 2nd quarters but in the 3rd quarter we managed to step up the defence and we were able to win.’’
Co – op bank will be meeting KCB Lions on Friday evening and Odhiambo hopes for a good result, “We are going to prepare well and hope for the best.’’
Meanwhile Masinde Muliro tactician Abel Wafula commenting on the defeat was content with his side performance but was already sounding the drums for the next match against Co-op bank, to be played their home turf in Kakamega,
“We shall be at home when we meet next time and we shall be waiting for them. We had beaten them in the last encounter so they were under the pressure to perform this time round.’’ He also mentioned that it was in the 3rd quarter that they lost the match,
“they came into the 3rd quarter more physical and we had some defensive lapses and that enabled them to come back.
Alex Lugasi the Masinde Muliro point guard had an impressive outing managing to score an impressive eight, 3 point shots. Masinde Muliro went home with 3 points from the weekend having gotten 2 points from a walkover against Mennonites and a point from the loss against Co-op bank.
Other matches of the day saw KCB Lions beat Terror 72 – 46. Nairobi Aviation went down narrowly to Kenya Airports Authority 44 – 46. In the ladies matches Storms managed to beat Gladiators 41 – 42 while debutants Safe Spaces senior team were beaten by Western delight 45 – 67.
BOTSWANA : Standings
29 April 2012
KENYA : Barclays beat Little Price to extend winning streak in NBA League
Updated on 28/04/12 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Barclays’ Eagles basketball team beat Little Prince 41 – 32 to register their second win in the ongoing Nairobi Basketball Association League on Saturday afternoon at the Railways Sports Club.
Barclays who were the more experienced side kicked off the match on a high note and continued to dominate to the final whistle.
Captain Paul Mbuthia while speaking after the match attributed their win to a strong defensive wall that supported their win against a good side.
“Defense is the name of the game and that is what helped us today,’’ Mbuthia said. “We have a problem in the fitness level of the team but we are going to work on that before our next match.’’
On the opposite end, Little Prince tactician Maurice Obilo was disappointed with the loss but said they will not fall twice when they meet Dolphins next weekend. The coach said his team never trained through the week due to the rains that rocked the city.
The team also lost numerous points on free throws and Obilo was disappointed on how his side wasted such chances, “we only scored 4 free throws out of 24 and if you see the margin that they beat us with you will agree that if we could have capitalized on the free throws we could have won the game.’’
Obilo has his tactical swords laid down as he prepares to face Dolphins next week. “Dolphins have very good shooters and we shall not give them the space to do so. We also plan to run them down since my boys have the pace to do it.’’
Barclays who were the more experienced side kicked off the match on a high note and continued to dominate to the final whistle.
Captain Paul Mbuthia while speaking after the match attributed their win to a strong defensive wall that supported their win against a good side.
“Defense is the name of the game and that is what helped us today,’’ Mbuthia said. “We have a problem in the fitness level of the team but we are going to work on that before our next match.’’
On the opposite end, Little Prince tactician Maurice Obilo was disappointed with the loss but said they will not fall twice when they meet Dolphins next weekend. The coach said his team never trained through the week due to the rains that rocked the city.
The team also lost numerous points on free throws and Obilo was disappointed on how his side wasted such chances, “we only scored 4 free throws out of 24 and if you see the margin that they beat us with you will agree that if we could have capitalized on the free throws we could have won the game.’’
Obilo has his tactical swords laid down as he prepares to face Dolphins next week. “Dolphins have very good shooters and we shall not give them the space to do so. We also plan to run them down since my boys have the pace to do it.’’
KENYA : Nairobi and Mombasa crowned Inter Cities champions
Updated on 28/04/12 | By DENNIS MACHIO
Nairobi ladies team retained their Inter Cities Basketball tournament after a deserved 66-48 (12-8, 15-16, 13-15 and 26-19) win over hosts Kampala in an entertaining final match played on Saturday afternoon in Kampala Uganda.
The men’s edition of the same tournament was won by Kenya’s Mombasa City who defeated Uganda’s Mukono in the finals. The men’s title was last won by Nairobi who did not feature in this year’s tournament due to financial constraints.
Kenya dominated the best player awards with Hilda Luvadwa of Nairobi being named the Most Valuable player of the tournament while Chris Abuja of Mombasa City was named the best player in the men’s category. Kampala’s Martha Soigi was named the best defensive player for the ladies and Mukono’s Naftali Msongoti the best defensive player in the men’s competition.
Hilda was outstanding in the five day’s event scoring most of Kenya’s points to ensure the reigning champions took back their title on an unbeaten form. She scored 17 points in the finals.
In the men’s 3rd and 4th play offs Uganda defeated South Sudan’s Juba 94-81 in a closely contested match while Mukono beat Tanzania’s Moyo to win 3rd spot in the ladies edition.
The men’s edition of the same tournament was won by Kenya’s Mombasa City who defeated Uganda’s Mukono in the finals. The men’s title was last won by Nairobi who did not feature in this year’s tournament due to financial constraints.
Kenya dominated the best player awards with Hilda Luvadwa of Nairobi being named the Most Valuable player of the tournament while Chris Abuja of Mombasa City was named the best player in the men’s category. Kampala’s Martha Soigi was named the best defensive player for the ladies and Mukono’s Naftali Msongoti the best defensive player in the men’s competition.
Hilda was outstanding in the five day’s event scoring most of Kenya’s points to ensure the reigning champions took back their title on an unbeaten form. She scored 17 points in the finals.
In the men’s 3rd and 4th play offs Uganda defeated South Sudan’s Juba 94-81 in a closely contested match while Mukono beat Tanzania’s Moyo to win 3rd spot in the ladies edition.
KENYA : Nairobi Are Through to Cities' Basketball
Kampala — Champions Nairobi yesterday stormed into the finals of the East and Central Africa Inter Cities basketball championship after beating Moyo of Tanzania 76-43 at the YMCA Wandegeya courts.
The winners scored the opener through captain Hilda Indasi to lead 38-14 at the break. Top scoring for Nairobi was Samba Mjomba with 9 and Linda Al;ando with 8.
Meanwhile forward Emma Nyakweba is doubtful for the rest of the games following an ankle injury she suffered two days ago. Nyakweba, also a national team player, limped out injured in the game against Kampala and has continued to hobble despite getting medical attention. Nairobi won that tie 62-45 before beating Moyo 51-31 on Thursday. Their opener was a 51-40 win over Mukono.
Coach Ben Oluoch yesterday said the star player did not train and she remains highly doubtful for the finals. "Emma did not train this morning. She is still not OK but I have asked her to warm up with the team .
Thursday's results: Nairobi ( Ke ) 51 Moyo ( Tz ) 31, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 58, In the men category- Mombasa ( Ke ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 72, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mogadishu ( Som ) 56. The men's semis pits Mombasa ( Ke ) Vs Juba ( Su ) and Kampala ( Ug ) Vs Mukono ( Ug ).
The winners scored the opener through captain Hilda Indasi to lead 38-14 at the break. Top scoring for Nairobi was Samba Mjomba with 9 and Linda Al;ando with 8.
Meanwhile forward Emma Nyakweba is doubtful for the rest of the games following an ankle injury she suffered two days ago. Nyakweba, also a national team player, limped out injured in the game against Kampala and has continued to hobble despite getting medical attention. Nairobi won that tie 62-45 before beating Moyo 51-31 on Thursday. Their opener was a 51-40 win over Mukono.
Coach Ben Oluoch yesterday said the star player did not train and she remains highly doubtful for the finals. "Emma did not train this morning. She is still not OK but I have asked her to warm up with the team .
Thursday's results: Nairobi ( Ke ) 51 Moyo ( Tz ) 31, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 58, In the men category- Mombasa ( Ke ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 72, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mogadishu ( Som ) 56. The men's semis pits Mombasa ( Ke ) Vs Juba ( Su ) and Kampala ( Ug ) Vs Mukono ( Ug ).
NIGERIA : Basketball League - Warriors, Pillars Hold Sway
As the 2011/2012 Premier Basketball League title race hots up in Nigeria , two teams have set the pace in both the Atlantic and Savannah Conferences.
Dodan Warriors against all odds hold an 8-0 unbeaten record going into the All Star Break while Kano Pillars, the 2009/2010 Champions maintains a similar 8-0 unbeaten record in the Savannah Conference.
As the league resumes this weekend, other teams will seek to stop the invincibility of the two teams. For the Warriors, their good form has been accompanied by some scintillating high tempo game under the tutelage of experienced Coach Adeka Daudu.
Parading mostly unknown and youthful players, it continues to show an example in team management under Col Sam Ahmedu (Rtd), the Clubs owner and proprietor, who however, attributes his team's good run to luck. "We have been lucky so far.
Moreso, we are just in the regular season. The real battle starts and ends at the play offs and only then will we know our true strength. We can not write off teams like defending champions, Royal Hoopers, Islanders and Comets at this stage and we must keep an eye on what is happening in the Savannah Conference where you have Kano Pillars and must consider Yelwa Hawks, Bauchi Nets and Niger Potters to mention a few".
Dodan Warriors against all odds hold an 8-0 unbeaten record going into the All Star Break while Kano Pillars, the 2009/2010 Champions maintains a similar 8-0 unbeaten record in the Savannah Conference.
As the league resumes this weekend, other teams will seek to stop the invincibility of the two teams. For the Warriors, their good form has been accompanied by some scintillating high tempo game under the tutelage of experienced Coach Adeka Daudu.
Parading mostly unknown and youthful players, it continues to show an example in team management under Col Sam Ahmedu (Rtd), the Clubs owner and proprietor, who however, attributes his team's good run to luck. "We have been lucky so far.
Moreso, we are just in the regular season. The real battle starts and ends at the play offs and only then will we know our true strength. We can not write off teams like defending champions, Royal Hoopers, Islanders and Comets at this stage and we must keep an eye on what is happening in the Savannah Conference where you have Kano Pillars and must consider Yelwa Hawks, Bauchi Nets and Niger Potters to mention a few".
UGANDA : Kampala defeat leaves bitter taste
The East and Central Africa Intercities Basketball which ended yesterday might take the honours for being one of the least attended and least publicized events in recent times. First, the organizers KCCA had promised to have the Lugogo Indoor Stadium available as the annual tournament got underway on Tuesday. Almost as expected, that failed and the eternal sanctuary at YMCA court filled the blanks.
The quality of the basketball had little to offer. The absence of strong sides from Kigali and Nairobi greatly contributed to this.
The quality of the basketball had little to offer. The absence of strong sides from Kigali and Nairobi greatly contributed to this.
It was far from what the tournament was a decade ago when Nairobi Combined were often the favourites. However, just when the tournament was to be treated like a passing storm, Mukono threw down the gauntlet by beating Kampala 71-68.
The latter have fielded a cross-section of star players from the MTN-Fuba League.
Predictably, they steamrolled opposition from Moyo, Mogadishu, Hargerisa, Juba and Mombasa.
There was quite a gulf between Norman Blick, Ben Komakech, captain Joseph Ikong, Ivan Enabu and co. Most games were not too different from pick-up basketball.
There was quite a gulf between Norman Blick, Ben Komakech, captain Joseph Ikong, Ivan Enabu and co. Most games were not too different from pick-up basketball.
A collision with Mukono, comprising players from UCU Canons, in the semifinals was the hardest challenge for these players who will eventually end up in the national team.For most of the first three quarters, it was a near formality as Kampala led by 10 points. Only to fall short. It was an abysmal showing late in the game against the one-man show of shooting guard Sudi Ulanga. Coaches Bernice Ankunda and Mandy Juruni were clueless. All their players only mastered the art of fouling Ulanga. He went to the line on no less than 10 occasions in the fourth quarter and never missed a shot. Each one of them was cheered loudly.
Somehow, Mukono had recovered to lead 67-65 with 25 seconds to play and Isaac Luggudde tied the game but there was no stopping Ulanga.
“We only had one session together and the main aim is to have fun,” Juruni, the assistant coach, said.
That fun involved so many wrong decisions like leaving Ronnie Kasewu on the bench when the team needed some steely defence.
Sam Gombya, a 7ft 1in centre, also got minutes when Kampala opted for a transitional game. While he has so many strengths, speed is not one of them.
Later this year, Uganda will take part in the Zone V Nations Championships and 75% of the team will have these same players.
This was a good platform to work on the blue print. Ulanga and co. left so many questions. The Injuries to Stephen Omony, Isaac Afidra and Eric Malinga plus the absence of Henry Malinga didn’t help. Like one coach said; “the team had too many guards.” The statement is not wholly a problem as guards should be a strength but Ankunda and Juruni, if appointed national coaches later this year, have work to do.
This was a good platform to work on the blue print. Ulanga and co. left so many questions. The Injuries to Stephen Omony, Isaac Afidra and Eric Malinga plus the absence of Henry Malinga didn’t help. Like one coach said; “the team had too many guards.” The statement is not wholly a problem as guards should be a strength but Ankunda and Juruni, if appointed national coaches later this year, have work to do.
28 April 2012
UGANDA : Will Falcons-K.I.U put to history the Warriors-Power finals monotony?
A medieval deity could walk on a pile of ashes and not raise dust, but if you have a squad as thick as Falcons and K.I.U’s, surely the hum of your ambitions is well bound to spark a cold shrill up the spines of many – it’s not only Italians who can smell coffee!
FALCONS
Picture this starting 5; 1=Dulla, 2=jeff omondi, 3=steven omony 4=edie K 5=Ameny phillip and a bench that has Francis Tumusiime, Peter Elungat, steven mwesigye aka dux,douglas Uwizera, Yusuf mohamed, Julius lutwama…if a cloth ringed makes it cleaner, then the past 3 seasons have surely ushered Falcons into an avenue that could redeem their days of old.
key factor: Will the financial muscle keep the house in order?
Warriors
No doubt the revelation has been Sam Gombya who has 71 points in 3 games, so much so the telepathy between Ivan Enabu and Norman Blick has been under the carpet. The no comment verbal tick of ug clubs makes it quite a hustle to retrieve info but our sources gather Mike Bazangu and sudanese- american raised Bilfam Warriors point guard Lual Deng are on the wanted list, with Bazangu and Norman running the lanes and Ivan in the middle, pace which has been warriors’ undoing could be delt with once and for all.
key factor: with a tight scheduled regular, zone 5, national team engagements playoffs starting at the quarters and most players on the other side of the age curve, the will they have legs by the semis?
D-mark power
Alot has been said of Powers lack of size in the key with the departure of Robert Mubiru and the injury to Robert Wanitho, but just like they proved against UCU canons in the opener…”have your size but we run”. Powers transition play has still proven too much a stone to bite for the other contenders. Even chicago bulls’ Loul Deng after seeing the Power team in juba laughed off, ” you guys are so small, those guys are tall and big” Bernice had this to say, ” yes they are tall but we run!” and run the did, not just with lead in Juba and the last 2 rings but likely the 3 especially with the poisoned aura of making 2012 a historical year in Powers training sessions-yes 3 straight is the invisible springboard that keeps Power going.
key factor: Chemistry and play-off’s surgeon Ben koma
So will one of the 2 big- boys falter, i hope so! It’s not criminal to flatter with fate, especially in the light of the status quo commanding recognition and acknowledgment. Much as am anti-establishment, if it doesn’t come to pass like the wave that drowned, do not ululate for much as history cannot be erased, it can be re-written.
FALCONS
Picture this starting 5; 1=Dulla, 2=jeff omondi, 3=steven omony 4=edie K 5=Ameny phillip and a bench that has Francis Tumusiime, Peter Elungat, steven mwesigye aka dux,douglas Uwizera, Yusuf mohamed, Julius lutwama…if a cloth ringed makes it cleaner, then the past 3 seasons have surely ushered Falcons into an avenue that could redeem their days of old.
key factor: Will the financial muscle keep the house in order?
K.I.U TITANS
For the past 2 seasons having seemingly settled for a mid table side, K.I.U have made their intentions clear with over 9 additions to their squad in the moulds of 2009 zone 5 MVP Richard Osano omondi arguably last seasons player of the season(read; why stats confess osano is egular season MVP), Njau Nelson(plied his trade in qatar), Francis kasekende(miracle eagles) Akena denis( gulu hawks),explosive foward Alleng deng aka Alleu, Chris…with likely additions Mwaniki Jeff, Orom Makmot and Salim Ali who Heaters manager Denis told KIU to forget as for this season with salim retorting he would rather be a fan than play for Heaters…Brian wati and Jeff mwaniki did tell Denis, “never say never”…a sniff btn the lines smells of a game plan to have Salim Ali don the Titans jersey.
Key factor; Will Salim Ali play for them
THE BIG BOYSFor the past 2 seasons having seemingly settled for a mid table side, K.I.U have made their intentions clear with over 9 additions to their squad in the moulds of 2009 zone 5 MVP Richard Osano omondi arguably last seasons player of the season(read; why stats confess osano is egular season MVP), Njau Nelson(plied his trade in qatar), Francis kasekende(miracle eagles) Akena denis( gulu hawks),explosive foward Alleng deng aka Alleu, Chris…with likely additions Mwaniki Jeff, Orom Makmot and Salim Ali who Heaters manager Denis told KIU to forget as for this season with salim retorting he would rather be a fan than play for Heaters…Brian wati and Jeff mwaniki did tell Denis, “never say never”…a sniff btn the lines smells of a game plan to have Salim Ali don the Titans jersey.
Key factor; Will Salim Ali play for them
Warriors
No doubt the revelation has been Sam Gombya who has 71 points in 3 games, so much so the telepathy between Ivan Enabu and Norman Blick has been under the carpet. The no comment verbal tick of ug clubs makes it quite a hustle to retrieve info but our sources gather Mike Bazangu and sudanese- american raised Bilfam Warriors point guard Lual Deng are on the wanted list, with Bazangu and Norman running the lanes and Ivan in the middle, pace which has been warriors’ undoing could be delt with once and for all.
key factor: with a tight scheduled regular, zone 5, national team engagements playoffs starting at the quarters and most players on the other side of the age curve, the will they have legs by the semis?
D-mark power
Alot has been said of Powers lack of size in the key with the departure of Robert Mubiru and the injury to Robert Wanitho, but just like they proved against UCU canons in the opener…”have your size but we run”. Powers transition play has still proven too much a stone to bite for the other contenders. Even chicago bulls’ Loul Deng after seeing the Power team in juba laughed off, ” you guys are so small, those guys are tall and big” Bernice had this to say, ” yes they are tall but we run!” and run the did, not just with lead in Juba and the last 2 rings but likely the 3 especially with the poisoned aura of making 2012 a historical year in Powers training sessions-yes 3 straight is the invisible springboard that keeps Power going.
key factor: Chemistry and play-off’s surgeon Ben koma
So will one of the 2 big- boys falter, i hope so! It’s not criminal to flatter with fate, especially in the light of the status quo commanding recognition and acknowledgment. Much as am anti-establishment, if it doesn’t come to pass like the wave that drowned, do not ululate for much as history cannot be erased, it can be re-written.
RWANDA : U-18 Zone Five hoops tournament returns
North African rivals Egypt and Tunisia contested the final of the 2010 tournament played in Kigali. The New Times /T. Kisambira.
One of the first assignments of the new basketball administration that will be voted into office on Sunday will be to organise the Zone Five U-18 qualifiers scheduled to take place later this year.According to the interim president of the national basketball federation Albert Kayiranga, the country requested Fiba to host the competition but have yet to determine dates for the event.
“Fiba accepted our request to host the tournament and the sports ministry has pledged full support. But we are yet to determine the dates for the tournament,” Kayiranga told Times Sport.
The week long competition will attract eight teams which include Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Burundi. The tourney will also feature a women’s competition.
Rwanda finished in 6th position last time around despite being hosts but Innocent Karuhije, the technical director in the Basketball federation thinks Coach Nenad Amanovic and his team can get a top 2 position.
“Since Egypt has already qualified, there is no reason why we can’t win the tournament. It is the only team that is superior to us,” Karuhije said.
27 April 2012
KENYA : Nairobi and Mombasa qualify for Inter Cities semis
| By DENNIS MACHIO
Kenya’s representatives in this year’s edition of Inter Cities championship Nairobi and Mombasa have qualified for the semi finals of the tournament in Kampala after winning all their group stage matches.
Ladies’ defending champions Nairobi will this afternoon at 2:00PM take on Moyo in the first semi final match. Nairobi in their final group match on Thursday defeated the same opponent Moyo from Tanzania 51-31 and will be looking for a repeat performance against the same team in the semi finals.
In the men’s category, Mombasa City won their second match of the tournament with a slim two point lead of 72-74 against Uganda’s Mukono. Mombasa plays Juba in the men’s semi final match.
The other semi final in the men’s match will be an all Ugandan affair of Kampala against Mukono.
THURSDAY RESULTS
Juba vs Moyo 19/17,29/09,19/22,21/23 (87/71)
Nairobi vs Moyo(w) 09/05,18/12,09/06,15/08 (51/31)
Mukono vs Mombasa 23/20,21/16,07/18,21/20. (72/74)
Mukono vs Kampala(w)19/18,19/23,11/15,09/18. (58/74)
Kampala vs Mogadishu 24/14,28/11,28/17,17/14 (97/56)
SEMI FINALS
Nairobi vs Moyo (w) 2pm,
Kampala vs Mukono (w) 4pm,
Kampala vs Mukono(m) 6pm,
Mombasa vs Juba(m) 8pm
Ladies’ defending champions Nairobi will this afternoon at 2:00PM take on Moyo in the first semi final match. Nairobi in their final group match on Thursday defeated the same opponent Moyo from Tanzania 51-31 and will be looking for a repeat performance against the same team in the semi finals.
In the men’s category, Mombasa City won their second match of the tournament with a slim two point lead of 72-74 against Uganda’s Mukono. Mombasa plays Juba in the men’s semi final match.
The other semi final in the men’s match will be an all Ugandan affair of Kampala against Mukono.
THURSDAY RESULTS
Juba vs Moyo 19/17,29/09,19/22,21/23 (87/71)
Nairobi vs Moyo(w) 09/05,18/12,09/06,15/08 (51/31)
Mukono vs Mombasa 23/20,21/16,07/18,21/20. (72/74)
Mukono vs Kampala(w)19/18,19/23,11/15,09/18. (58/74)
Kampala vs Mogadishu 24/14,28/11,28/17,17/14 (97/56)
SEMI FINALS
Nairobi vs Moyo (w) 2pm,
Kampala vs Mukono (w) 4pm,
Kampala vs Mukono(m) 6pm,
Mombasa vs Juba(m) 8pm
UGANDA : Inter-cities Basketball fails to impress
Mogadishus Felix Odhiambo (L) tries to block Moyos Samery Asindu during one of the games of the inter-cities basketball tournament at YMCA
By Charles Mutebi
East Africa Inter-cities basketball
Results
Women
Nairobi 51 Moyo 31
Nairobi 62 Kampala 45
Men
Juba 87 Moyo 71
Kampala 86 Juba 72
Today at YMCA Wandegeya
Men's semi-finals
Women's final
The East and Central Inter-cities basketball tournament was one of the events to look forward to when the 2012 FUBA calendar came out two months ago. With the funding of the Kampala Capital City Authority, the regional event had the financial muscle to live up to the high expectations.
The organisers had high hopes themselves, saying as many as thirty teams had expressed interest in coming to Kampala for the one-week basketball fest.
Fast forward to the action and it has been anything but packed. Of the 30 or so teams projected to attend, only 12 made it and half are Ugandan. Men's defending champions Nairobi withdrew at the last minute and so did teams from Tanzania and Rwanda.
“Teams pulled out because they just failed to raise funds,” said Joy Olinga, the lead organiser from Uganda. “The Kigali teams, for instance, had been promised money by the city mayor only to be let down at the final hour.”
The tournament has also been given limited publicity, contributing to low attendances ahead of today's men's semifinals. The standard of matches has also been modest, an inevitability given the absence of the quality sides from Kenya and Kigali.
UGANDA : Moyo stun Mogadishu
YESTERDAY’S RESULTS (m)
Juba 82-47 Mogadishu
Kampala 101-48 Moyo
Moyo 65-62 Mogadishu
Women
Nairobi 51-40 Mukono
Mukono 72-53 Moyo
Today at YMCA (MEN)
Mogadishu vs. Moyo (12pm)
Mukono vs. Mombasa (4pm)
Kampala vs. Mogadishu(8pm)
Women
Nairobi vs. Moyo (2pm)
Mukono vs. Kampala (6pm)
Kampala 101-48 Moyo
Moyo 65-62 Mogadishu
Women
Nairobi 51-40 Mukono
Mukono 72-53 Moyo
Today at YMCA (MEN)
Mogadishu vs. Moyo (12pm)
Mukono vs. Mombasa (4pm)
Kampala vs. Mogadishu(8pm)
Women
Nairobi vs. Moyo (2pm)
Mukono vs. Kampala (6pm)
Moyo overcame a 10-point deficit at halftime to stun Mogadishu 65-62 in an entertaining East and Central Africa Inter-Cities Championships encounter at YMCA yesterday.
The Somalis were leading 32-22 at halftime and looked headed for victory but Moses Ochan (16 points) and Robert Alule ochestrated a comeback that saw Moyo push the game to overtime. Scores were 54-all at the end of the four quarters.
26 April 2012
NIGERIA : Bakare Assures Domestic Players of Olympics Slots
Head Coach of Nigeria senior men's basketball team, D'Tigers, Ayo Bakare, has assured players in the domestic league of four slots for the Olympic qualification tournament slated for July2-8 in Caracas, Venezuela.
Speaking at the end of a three- day first phase Olympic camping at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos yesterday, Bakare expressed delight over the performance of the 14 home-based players during the training period.
"I must praise players from the domestic league for responding positively to training and the coaching crew Sani Ahmed and Ayinla Johnson for their full support in camp.
"I can beat my chest and say confidently that Nigeria will rule Africa from the next Afrobasket. I say this because we have already set our target for the competition which is easy for any coach to follow and improve on.
"With what we saw during the camping, I'm sure that at least six of the home-based players will make the final preparation for the Olympic qualification tournament with at least four of them making it to Venezuela" he said.
Bakare, who qualified Nigeria for its maiden FIBA World Championship outing in 1998, commended the impact of the DSTV-sponsored basketball league on the local players, and tipped them for future dominance of the national team.
"The coming of MultiChoice (owner of DStv/SuperSport) into the Nigeria basketball scene has really changed the face of Nigerian basketball.
"I can say confidently that the home-based players will in no time form the bulk of our national team with proper planning and exposure which must include foreign training tours", said Bakare.
Speaking at the end of a three- day first phase Olympic camping at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos yesterday, Bakare expressed delight over the performance of the 14 home-based players during the training period.
"I must praise players from the domestic league for responding positively to training and the coaching crew Sani Ahmed and Ayinla Johnson for their full support in camp.
"I can beat my chest and say confidently that Nigeria will rule Africa from the next Afrobasket. I say this because we have already set our target for the competition which is easy for any coach to follow and improve on.
"With what we saw during the camping, I'm sure that at least six of the home-based players will make the final preparation for the Olympic qualification tournament with at least four of them making it to Venezuela" he said.
Bakare, who qualified Nigeria for its maiden FIBA World Championship outing in 1998, commended the impact of the DSTV-sponsored basketball league on the local players, and tipped them for future dominance of the national team.
"The coming of MultiChoice (owner of DStv/SuperSport) into the Nigeria basketball scene has really changed the face of Nigerian basketball.
"I can say confidently that the home-based players will in no time form the bulk of our national team with proper planning and exposure which must include foreign training tours", said Bakare.
UGANDA : Kampala in strong Intercities championships start
2005 Zone V MVP Ivan Enabu features on the Kampala team
By Vision Reporter
Day One results:
Kampala 101 Moyo 48(M)
Juba 82 Mogadishu 47(M)
Nairobi 51 Mukono 40(W)
Kampala 72 Moyo 44(W)
Today's fixture
Women's games
Kampala v Nairobi
Mukono v Moyo
Men's games
Mogadishu v Moyo
Hargeisa v Mombasa
Juba v Kampala
ULTIMATELY Kampala City stamped their urge to lift this year's Inter Cities Basketball title by beating Moyo 101-48 at the YMCA courts on Tuesday night.
Ivan Enabu scored a game-high 16 points as Kampala City exploited a speedy start to defeat Moyo as the Inter-Cities games got underway. Behind the strong play of Jimmy Enabu and Sam Gombya (highs of 13 points), Kampala's reserves were able to keep their team in the hunt for a regional title that has eluded them for over five years.
With a battalion of speedy guards, Kampala was able to execute offensively all night and finished with an excellent victory. The loss cemented Moyo's .
Kampala who boast of two-time MVP Ben Komakech, 2005 Zone V MVP Ivan Enabu and the 7-ft Sam Gombya on their squad will continue their aggressive title push when they play Juba in today's final game at the YMCA.
In the women's game, Mukono's solid fight deep in the fourth quarter were only short as they fell to defending champions Nairobi City 51-40 on day one off the weeklong event.
And in other matches of the day, Juba trounced Mogadishu 82/47, and Hargeisa also from Somalia lost to Mukono men 83/33.Hargeisa will however get a chance to redeem themselves when they take on Mombasa City today.
25 April 2012
KENYA : Nairobi on a positive start at the Intercities championship
Updated on 24/04/12 | By DENNIS MACHIO
Nairobi City began their campaign to defend their Inter Cities Basketball tournament on a positive note winning their first match on Tuesday 24th against Uganda’s Mukono.
The Kenyan girls who had arrived the same morning from Nairobi braved the road trip fatique to take the court five hours after arrival and went ahead to bag a 51-40 win.
Mukono however gave a solid fight during the match though the reigning champions kept vigil winning the first three quarters (12-06, 10-08, 18-13, ) but the last where they exposed some signs of fatigue allowing Mukono back into the match winning the last quarter 11-13.However it was not enough to bridge the gap as Kenya emerged victorious with a 51-40 scoreline.
On Wednesday Kenya plays hosts Kampala City in their second match that is expected to be full of excitement and emotions. Kampala defeated Moyo 72-44 (14-04, 22-16, 21-14,15-10.) on day one of the competition on Tuesday.
In other matches played on day one, Kampala men’s team beat Moyo 101/48, Juba trounced Mogadishu 82/47 and Hargesia another Somali team lost to Mukono 33/83.
The other Kenyan team taking part in the competition Mombasa City did not have a match on day one after their scheduled opponents Kigali withdrew from the competition at the last minute. Mombasa plays their first match on Wednesday against Hargesia of Somalia.
WEDNESDAY FIXTURE
Kampala vs Nairobi - Women
Mukono vs Moyo - Women
Mogadishu vs Moyo – Men
Hargesia vs Mombasa - Men
Juba vs Kampala - Men
The Kenyan girls who had arrived the same morning from Nairobi braved the road trip fatique to take the court five hours after arrival and went ahead to bag a 51-40 win.
Mukono however gave a solid fight during the match though the reigning champions kept vigil winning the first three quarters (12-06, 10-08, 18-13, ) but the last where they exposed some signs of fatigue allowing Mukono back into the match winning the last quarter 11-13.However it was not enough to bridge the gap as Kenya emerged victorious with a 51-40 scoreline.
On Wednesday Kenya plays hosts Kampala City in their second match that is expected to be full of excitement and emotions. Kampala defeated Moyo 72-44 (14-04, 22-16, 21-14,15-10.) on day one of the competition on Tuesday.
In other matches played on day one, Kampala men’s team beat Moyo 101/48, Juba trounced Mogadishu 82/47 and Hargesia another Somali team lost to Mukono 33/83.
The other Kenyan team taking part in the competition Mombasa City did not have a match on day one after their scheduled opponents Kigali withdrew from the competition at the last minute. Mombasa plays their first match on Wednesday against Hargesia of Somalia.
WEDNESDAY FIXTURE
Kampala vs Nairobi - Women
Mukono vs Moyo - Women
Mogadishu vs Moyo – Men
Hargesia vs Mombasa - Men
Juba vs Kampala - Men
RWANDA : Local Basketball Body Braced for Fresh Faces
NATIONAL basketball governing body Ferwaba leadership will have new faces on Sunday after the General Assembly ordered for fresh elections as opposed to filling the posts of top officials who have resigned.
Former hoops federation president Eric Kalisa, first vice president Henry Munyengabe and legal Advisor Shema Maboko resigned last year citing personal reasons.
As a result, second vice president in the previous administration, Albert Kayiranga was tasked to head the body on a temporary basis until the vacant positions were filled.
But in a stormy meeting held at the weekend, to set a date for the elections, representatives of local clubs, requested the remaining officials to resign so that new leaders elected.
Although he did not initially agree with the decision, interim president Kayiranga conceded and resigned together with the remaining officials to pave way for new elections due this Sunday at Amahoro stadium.
"Members from the General Assembly argued that it would be good to fulfill the vacant positions because mixing new people and the ones who are already in the administration wouldn't be a good idea.
I thought this argument was weak but we accepted their position and resigned," said Kayiranag, who is also the head of sports at National University of Rwanda.
Former hoops federation president Eric Kalisa, first vice president Henry Munyengabe and legal Advisor Shema Maboko resigned last year citing personal reasons.
As a result, second vice president in the previous administration, Albert Kayiranga was tasked to head the body on a temporary basis until the vacant positions were filled.
But in a stormy meeting held at the weekend, to set a date for the elections, representatives of local clubs, requested the remaining officials to resign so that new leaders elected.
Although he did not initially agree with the decision, interim president Kayiranga conceded and resigned together with the remaining officials to pave way for new elections due this Sunday at Amahoro stadium.
"Members from the General Assembly argued that it would be good to fulfill the vacant positions because mixing new people and the ones who are already in the administration wouldn't be a good idea.
I thought this argument was weak but we accepted their position and resigned," said Kayiranag, who is also the head of sports at National University of Rwanda.
24 April 2012
NAMIBIA : NBF Finalizes Under-20 Regional Trials
Windhoek — Two exciting months of discovering and maturing of talent successfully came to an end, after the Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) held it's final trials in Tsumeb on Saturday.
Fifty players and ten coaches from the Caprivi, Kavango, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa regions took part in the long and rewarding trials and in the end only six male (Paita Cecilio, Iyaloo Fransiseo, Mcdonald Garab, Stephen Kaluwa, Argentino Sengue, Siwongo Siwongo) and four females (Merlyn Lucas, Telma Matengu, Vanessa Neumann, Yolanda Tobias) were invited for the upcoming national trials set for the 27 and 29th of this month at Augustineum Secondary School in Khomasdal.
The national trials will consist of an intensive three-day basketball clinic, aimed at mentally and physically testing the player's abilities, as well as their attitude and commitment. After those three days, the best players will be chosen for the national squad and invited to preparation camps.
Following seven months of intense preparation, the most committed players will form the national team and represent Namibia at the U-20 Zone VI Youth Games in December later this year in Zambia.
Fifty players and ten coaches from the Caprivi, Kavango, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa regions took part in the long and rewarding trials and in the end only six male (Paita Cecilio, Iyaloo Fransiseo, Mcdonald Garab, Stephen Kaluwa, Argentino Sengue, Siwongo Siwongo) and four females (Merlyn Lucas, Telma Matengu, Vanessa Neumann, Yolanda Tobias) were invited for the upcoming national trials set for the 27 and 29th of this month at Augustineum Secondary School in Khomasdal.
The national trials will consist of an intensive three-day basketball clinic, aimed at mentally and physically testing the player's abilities, as well as their attitude and commitment. After those three days, the best players will be chosen for the national squad and invited to preparation camps.
Following seven months of intense preparation, the most committed players will form the national team and represent Namibia at the U-20 Zone VI Youth Games in December later this year in Zambia.
GAMBIA : Lamin Beat YMCA in Basketball Finals
Lamin on Saturday beat YMCA by 50 points to 46 in the Late Pa Modou Sarr Memorial Basketball final played at the Serekunda West Basketball Court.
Lamin went into the break with a 23-points to 15 lead but YMCA came into the second half the stronger side and leveled the tie at 35 points all in the end fell short of the required points to secure the title.
Speaking to Observer Sports shortly after the final whistle, Salieu Jallow the head coach of Lamin hailed the performance of his side. He said that all his players are students, adding that he has been nurturing them since they were young.
For his part, Amadou Trawally the coach of YMCA said the defeat was a lesson as it will help them prepare better next time.
Andrew Pikin Jatta, a member of the organising committee said the tournament was organised to honour their colleague, brother and teammate Pa Modou Sarr, who died in a car accident in 2004 in the United States of America.
Lamin went into the break with a 23-points to 15 lead but YMCA came into the second half the stronger side and leveled the tie at 35 points all in the end fell short of the required points to secure the title.
Speaking to Observer Sports shortly after the final whistle, Salieu Jallow the head coach of Lamin hailed the performance of his side. He said that all his players are students, adding that he has been nurturing them since they were young.
For his part, Amadou Trawally the coach of YMCA said the defeat was a lesson as it will help them prepare better next time.
Andrew Pikin Jatta, a member of the organising committee said the tournament was organised to honour their colleague, brother and teammate Pa Modou Sarr, who died in a car accident in 2004 in the United States of America.
TANZANIA : American AND1 in Dar es Salaam On Wednesday
KENYA : 12 Best Players Named for Tour
THE best 12 basketballers from the just concluded Brookeside national secondary schools have been rewarded with a trip to United States for an inter school tournament in June. And as if that is not enough, players who excel at the U.S. show will get scholarships to the prestigious US colleges.
Former Kisumu Town West MP Ken Nyagudi led scouts from the U.S. in selecting the best players for the tour during the national secondary schools championships. The U.S. event will bring together schools from Spain, Germany, Mexico and several states in the US. "If the players impress scouts who will be at the tournament in San Diego, they will be selected to join US colleges after concluding their studies," Nyangudi said.
He admitted it has been difficult coming up with the best 12 because they Maseno event was very competitive. Among the scouts from US were former NBA players Kevin England and Autie Hinns. Laiser Hill coach Smarts Olumbo will coach the team to U.S. and will be assisted by Upper Hill coach George Mayienga. Champions Laiser Hill form the bulky of the squad after winning the title once again. Omari Mulumba, Southern Sudanese nationale Bull Bior, Mwalimu Heri and Eric Mutoro were selected from Laiser Hill while losing finalists Upper Hill have Martin Mugambi, Joseph Ongoro and Adrian Odhiambo. Others are-Oscar Muge, James Wanjara (Maseno School) and Michael Maete (Alliance), Hatib Rajab (Shimba Hills) and Victor Nyagudi (St Mary's).
Former Kisumu Town West MP Ken Nyagudi led scouts from the U.S. in selecting the best players for the tour during the national secondary schools championships. The U.S. event will bring together schools from Spain, Germany, Mexico and several states in the US. "If the players impress scouts who will be at the tournament in San Diego, they will be selected to join US colleges after concluding their studies," Nyangudi said.
He admitted it has been difficult coming up with the best 12 because they Maseno event was very competitive. Among the scouts from US were former NBA players Kevin England and Autie Hinns. Laiser Hill coach Smarts Olumbo will coach the team to U.S. and will be assisted by Upper Hill coach George Mayienga. Champions Laiser Hill form the bulky of the squad after winning the title once again. Omari Mulumba, Southern Sudanese nationale Bull Bior, Mwalimu Heri and Eric Mutoro were selected from Laiser Hill while losing finalists Upper Hill have Martin Mugambi, Joseph Ongoro and Adrian Odhiambo. Others are-Oscar Muge, James Wanjara (Maseno School) and Michael Maete (Alliance), Hatib Rajab (Shimba Hills) and Victor Nyagudi (St Mary's).
UGANDA : Falcons' Omondi in rare feat
A youthful Omondi in Falcons colours back in 2006 before he joined Canons.
By Charles Mutebi
Geoff Omondi marked his return to the Falcons by doing something that has been done every few times in local basketball, something that doesn’t happen every season.
He made a triple-double to lead the Falcons to an 80-67 victory over the reeling Eagles, bagging 10 points, 10 assists and 11 rebounds.
Edwin Kateregga claimed 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Falcons but the night belonged to Omondi, who was making his second debut for the record FUBA league men’s champions.
After the match, Omondi, who played the entire contest due to a manpower shortage, said the Falcons were on the way back.
“When every player is finally here, we will be strong enough to win a championship,” he said in reference to the impending arrival of Steven Omony, Abdullah Ramadan, Phillip Amweny, Francis Tumusiime and Brian Ssentongo in the coming weeks.
Steven Mwesigye and Douglas Uwereza scored 17 and 16 points for the Falcons, who were given a tougher time by the Eagles than had been expected.
Playing with a line-up of only six players, the Eagles gave a good account of themselves, with Raymond Bukenya nailing a game-high 22 points.
Chris Kyebambe and Donald Ssali sunk 12 apiece while added Ronald Bajjumba 11 for theEagles, who cut the deficit to one point in the second quarter.
Meanwhile,Johnson Were adds,the 2012 East and Central Africa Inter-cities basketball that starts tomorrow, Wednesday in Kampala, will be played at the YMCA courts after the organisers failed to secure the refurbished MTN Arenaat Lugogo to host the event.
Eight cities have confirmed participation with defending champions Nairobi opting to send only a women’s team.
23 April 2012
LIBERIA : Power Failure Interrupts LBA National League; First Round Ends this Weekend
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yiddish 
Power failure has interrupted the smooth continuation of the national league of the Liberia Basketball Association (LBA). On Monday, game two between Supreme Brothers and D-Rockas was abruptly cut-off after the only generator supplying the Sports Commission developed a mechanical fault at the end of the last quarter.
The score was 49 apiece with Supreme having made a three-point basket good. The C/Deltas and Commissioners match was also postponed. Earlier, Harbel Pointers lost to Fiamah United Brothers (FUBBA) by 39 to 44 points.
On Tuesday, Ducor Magic beat Uhuru Prince by 86 to 80 points in an early kickoff but power failure again prevented the SOS Trotters and Commissioners game from taking place.
LBA Secretary General Allen Goodrich told FrontPageAfrica Wednesday the game will be replayed but didn’t elaborate as to whether it will start with the five minutes extra time. He said the situation was beyond their control as the generator undergoes a routine maintenance.
“We have been doing everything to ensure that we play our leagues at night. We service the generator everyday and we even bought new spare parts but we don’t know why things are happening like this,” he said.The association has been running its league with a single generator.
Plans to buy a standby generator has been stalled by an apparent bottleneck allegedly created by the Ministry of Youth & Sports in releasing the balance US$5,000 (five-thousand United States dollars) appropriated in the fiscal budget of 2011/2012.
According to the passed budget, US$10,000 (ten-thousand United States dollars) was given to the federation but only half of the half has been remitted to it. Meanwhile, the LBA said its first phase will hopefully end over the weekend.
