Basketball in Africa

SendCancel

On the contrary, Power feel different as they seek a revival in the Airtel National Basketball League, starting with a game against UCU Canons today at YMCA court. “If we play with the same confidence in the league, we can do something special,” forward Isaac Afidra warned. “We came into the tournament in a slump but since this is playoff basketball come early, it will help,” his coach Bernice Ankunda agreed.

The defending champions lie third at 12-4, just ahead of UCU (11-5) as the regular season enters its final seven weeks. Power could also have the edge over UCU having won the opener 74-65 against the same side.

Small opposition
UCU coach Nicholas Natuhereza is coming off one of his worst games this season, a 72-42 mauling by Falcons. Centre Desmond Owili was not chosen for that game over indiscipline. Owili should return in the one area UCU have an advantage.

The opposition is much smaller though Power are slowly addressing their size disadvantage. Michael Kojo and David Kiberu are playing regularly. There is also help since they signed Zimbabwean George Run’anga.

Ben Komakech, Kojo and Jimmy Enabu suffered injuries during Zone V but all three are expected to feature. In the early encounter, women’s champions and leaders UCU Lady Canons, on a 16-match winning streak, face A1 Challenge. The latter lie fourth at 12-3 and should return to the playoffs after missing out last year.