The president of the Gambia Basketball Association, Muhammed Papa Njie, has hailed the performance of the Gambian side despite finishing bottom in the tri-nation tournament, played as part of President Jammeh's 48th birthday.
The Gambian team lost both group stage games to eventual winners Senegal and runners-up Mauritania, but despite the poor showing, the GBA President said they have done well, considering the fact that the national team has just been formed.
"I think they have done very well, considering that in eight years, this is the first time actually they have participated in a competitive game and our league just started this year. The first round 20 points and in the second round it went up to 80 and 100. The next level is to have very good teams. Senegal is one of the top teams (in Africa). They did their own quota and they performed well. We are a little disappointed but that's basketball. We really have to practice and if you look at the Senegalese team, they were very good at three points and we didn't have that. So it's all about aiming to be like them and eventually being better than them," he further stated.
He explained that apart from celebrating President Jammeh's birthday, the tournament provided the Gambian side the opportunity to measure its mettle against established teams in the sport. "I think we have got our objectives, that was to show the level of basketball. If you want to be the best you have to play with the best and I think that's what showed to the boys that in order to be the best, we have to play with the best and see how they play and at first, the boys panicked a little bit. Some of them (players) that was their first time to have an international competition. In the second game, they played very well.
"As I also said in my previous interview, we need an indoor basketball court to challenge all these countries, because, most of the kids we want to catch them young. In the summer it usually rains and then the kids go and play other disciplines. So I am appealing to His Excellency, President Jammeh and everybody to please help us to have indoor basketball courts. We need to get indoor basketball courts in all the regions because that is all about decentralisation. Then we will be able to get good players from the regions," he added.
31 May 2013
Nigeria: Exclusive - Coach Releases Names of Five Nigerian-Based Basketball Players for African Championship
The Coach of the D'Tigers, Ayo Bakare, on Thursday exclusively revealed to PREMIUM TIMES, the names of the players that made it to the national team.
The coach and his crew had initially decided that six home based players, who had been in the national camp, will join the National team.
But after a rigorous selection process, they coach explained that he and his crew could only pick five of the players. He said the five were unanimously selected.
"I have taken into careful consideration all the inputs of the coaches at our various meetings regarding the selection of the players
"It seems clear that only the five on the list can truly compete at the next phase of preparation, after due consideration of their skills and attitude.
"The names are listed in order of priority with the first name being the highest and the last name being the lowest priority," he said.
The selected players are:
Abdulwahab Yahaya (forward) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Abubakar Usman (guard) _ Kano Pillars
Stanley Gumut (guard) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Michael Ohiero (guard) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Nkem Ojougboh (forward) - Comets
The 2013 Afrobasket FIBA Africa Championship, which will commence on August 27, will be hosted by Cote d'Ivoire.
The coach and his crew had initially decided that six home based players, who had been in the national camp, will join the National team.
But after a rigorous selection process, they coach explained that he and his crew could only pick five of the players. He said the five were unanimously selected.
"I have taken into careful consideration all the inputs of the coaches at our various meetings regarding the selection of the players
"It seems clear that only the five on the list can truly compete at the next phase of preparation, after due consideration of their skills and attitude.
"The names are listed in order of priority with the first name being the highest and the last name being the lowest priority," he said.
The selected players are:
Abdulwahab Yahaya (forward) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Abubakar Usman (guard) _ Kano Pillars
Stanley Gumut (guard) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Michael Ohiero (guard) - Mark Mentors Abuja
Nkem Ojougboh (forward) - Comets
The 2013 Afrobasket FIBA Africa Championship, which will commence on August 27, will be hosted by Cote d'Ivoire.
Nigeria: We Will Not Discriminate Against Nigerian-Based Basketball Players - Coach Ayo Bakare
The head coach of the Nigerian Basketball Team, D'Tigers, has said that players will only be selected on merit, not on sentiment, as they prepare for International Basketball Federation's, Afrobasket 2013, which will hold between August 21 and 30 in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire
Bakare also told PREMIUM TIMES that four out of the 13 home based players already camped in Abuja in preparation for the tournament will be selected to join their foreign based teammates.
Speaking about their performance, Bakare said he's satisfied with what he has seen so far.
"I'm extremely satisfied with the boys' performance in camp. They merited the call to the national camp," he said.
Reacting to past disputes between him and former national team member, Ejike Ugboaja, he said, "I didn't say that Ejike won't be invited. He said he's not interested in playing and if a player doesn't want to play, I can't force him."
Bakare added that every player will be invited to the national team on merit.
"It's not an automatic selection every player has to work as hard as possible. We are not going to give call-ups on platter of gold. And we will not discriminate between home-based players and those who play abroad. "
The coach, however, refused to disclose the names of the players who will eventually feature at the Afrobasket tournament.
"It's too early to determine who and who will make the final team but with what I've seen in the past few days, I have a strong belief that if they keep working hard there's a very solid chance they'll make it to Cote d'Ivoire."
Bakare also told PREMIUM TIMES that four out of the 13 home based players already camped in Abuja in preparation for the tournament will be selected to join their foreign based teammates.
Speaking about their performance, Bakare said he's satisfied with what he has seen so far.
"I'm extremely satisfied with the boys' performance in camp. They merited the call to the national camp," he said.
Reacting to past disputes between him and former national team member, Ejike Ugboaja, he said, "I didn't say that Ejike won't be invited. He said he's not interested in playing and if a player doesn't want to play, I can't force him."
Bakare added that every player will be invited to the national team on merit.
"It's not an automatic selection every player has to work as hard as possible. We are not going to give call-ups on platter of gold. And we will not discriminate between home-based players and those who play abroad. "
The coach, however, refused to disclose the names of the players who will eventually feature at the Afrobasket tournament.
"It's too early to determine who and who will make the final team but with what I've seen in the past few days, I have a strong belief that if they keep working hard there's a very solid chance they'll make it to Cote d'Ivoire."
UGANDA : Warriors chase third spot
newvision
By Julius SenyimbaAirtel National Basketball League
Men
KIU Titans v Warriors 8:30pm
Women
Makerere Sparks v KIU Rangers 6pm
THE basketball fraternity is headed for what promises to be a close contest as Kyambogo Warriors face KIU Titans in the Airtel National Basketball League.
Action is due at Lugogo in Kampala.
The entertaining teams will be battling for third place. Each team has 7 points from four games having lost once to UCU Canons, which means the winner today will go above the other in domestic basketball’s premier competition.
Some players preferred to adopt a cautious approach ahead of the game.
Point guard Ivan Enabu, one of the key players for two-time champions Warriors, said he respects the Titans.
“It is going to be an interesting game because both sides are good,” Enabu said after a training session.
“My team has young players who want to prove themselves.”
In the women’s category, Makerere Sparks, who are second from bottom, will host fourth placed KIU Rangers. Meanwhile, UCU Canons defeated Proline Heaters 76-59 in the men’s category on Wednesday.
30 May 2013
UGANDA : Canons late surge cools off Heaters
Desmond OwiliPhoto Credits: Daily Monitor UCU Canons overcame a slow start to beat Proline Heaters 76-59 Wednesday night at YMCA. Syrus Kiviiri piled up game high 25 points to lead UCU. Big men, Desmond Owili and Ivan Lumanyika added 12 points each and combined for 17 boards and Sudi Ulanga chipped in with 10 points as canons rolled to their fifth successive win.
Canons (5-0) edged the opening period 13-11 but Proline responded with an 18-14 second quarter to close out the half up 29-27. The Heaters managed to keep the Canons as close as possible until late third quarter. Tied at 37 with over just over two minutes in the third, Canons forced three consecutive turnovers that they utilised to pull away and eventually closing out the frame up 51-39. Ulanga opened the final quarter for UCU from the top of the mountain but Heaters (1-4) chipped away to come within 9 points (61-52), 2:35 to the final horn but Kiviiri quickly restored UCU’s double digit lead with a pair of throws and Jonathan Egau (5 points) finished off heaters with a corner 3-ball, 1:52 to the last buzzer. “We picked up our intensity defensively and didn't allow as many un-contested shots” UCU’s coach Nicholas Natuhereza said of his team’s second half performance.
Tony Olila and Javan Odhiambo led the way for heaters with 14 points each and Adam Kakuru added 13 points and 4 assists. “We lack maturity and experience and i think it showed. Our team is just starting to gel and i think we will get better” Heaters’ coach, Brian Wathum said.
Meanwhile, school side Nabisunsa suffered another beat down as they lost to KCCA Leopards 106-16. Hilda naigaga led the way for KCCA with game high 20 points. Charline Karungi (14 points), Claire Lamunu (13 points), Jackie Basemera (12 points), Martha Soigi (11 points, 11 rebounds) and Flavia Oketcho (10 points) scored in double figures. Maimula Nabosa had 8 points and 8 rebounds for Nabisunsa.
GAMBIA : GBA President Praises Team Showing
ANGOLA : National Basketball Coach Sacked
Luanda — The coach of the Angolan national senior men team of basketball, José Carlos Guimarães, was sacked from the post, Angop learned Wednesday from a federation source.
According to the deputy president of the Angolan Basketball Federation (FAB), Eurico Araújo, the former African champion will instead take the post of technical advisor to the FAB president.
José Carlos Guimarães, whose contract will terminate on August 31 this year, was appointed national basketball coach in May 2012 and led the team during the pre-Olympic tournament of Caracas (Venezuela), from July 2-8 .
The new technical team will be presented on Thursday during a press conference that will also announce the list of players summoned into the national team.
According to the deputy president of the Angolan Basketball Federation (FAB), Eurico Araújo, the former African champion will instead take the post of technical advisor to the FAB president.
José Carlos Guimarães, whose contract will terminate on August 31 this year, was appointed national basketball coach in May 2012 and led the team during the pre-Olympic tournament of Caracas (Venezuela), from July 2-8 .
The new technical team will be presented on Thursday during a press conference that will also announce the list of players summoned into the national team.
29 May 2013
KENYA : Eagle Wings with early lead in KBF Premier League
Updated on 28/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
2012 KBF Premier League Defending champions in the ladies category, Eagle Wings have taken an early lead in the table standings. Last Saturday they managed to beat KCA-U 54-21 as they seek to defend their title. Eagle Wings sits comfortable at the top with 11 points having played six matches and losing one. Their loss came courtesy of Strathmore University who beat them 46-28 a week ago.
Storms, Strathmore University and Safe Spaces are in position in 2, 3 and 4 respectively with the three teams all sharing 9 points. Storms have played five matches while Strathmore and Safe Spaces have played six and seven matches in the league respectively.
Last season’s runners up, USIU Flames are in 5th place with 8 points. Flames is one of the two teams that are yet to face defeat since they have won all the four matches that they have played. Their recent win came courtesy of KU Oryx whom they thrashed 67-27 on Sunday. Co-op Bank follows with 8 points having played five matches winning three of those.
In the second half of the table league new comers KCA University are having a rough time in the top flight league after they have managed to win only one of the six matches that they have played. They are placed 7th with 7 points followed by Kenya Ports Authority who have 6 points from the 3 matches that they have won.
Mennonites is the only team yet to register a win having lost all their 6 matches. The side has 6 points followed by NYTA-Shimba Hills and KU Oryx who have 5 points each after playing three and four matches respectively. Oryx had a double loss over the past weekend after going down 37-58 to Storms on Saturday then their subsequent loss to USIU on Sunday.
Western Delights is the last team on the log with 3 points after playing 2 matches only of which they won one and lost one.
Storms, Strathmore University and Safe Spaces are in position in 2, 3 and 4 respectively with the three teams all sharing 9 points. Storms have played five matches while Strathmore and Safe Spaces have played six and seven matches in the league respectively.
Last season’s runners up, USIU Flames are in 5th place with 8 points. Flames is one of the two teams that are yet to face defeat since they have won all the four matches that they have played. Their recent win came courtesy of KU Oryx whom they thrashed 67-27 on Sunday. Co-op Bank follows with 8 points having played five matches winning three of those.
In the second half of the table league new comers KCA University are having a rough time in the top flight league after they have managed to win only one of the six matches that they have played. They are placed 7th with 7 points followed by Kenya Ports Authority who have 6 points from the 3 matches that they have won.
Mennonites is the only team yet to register a win having lost all their 6 matches. The side has 6 points followed by NYTA-Shimba Hills and KU Oryx who have 5 points each after playing three and four matches respectively. Oryx had a double loss over the past weekend after going down 37-58 to Storms on Saturday then their subsequent loss to USIU on Sunday.
Western Delights is the last team on the log with 3 points after playing 2 matches only of which they won one and lost one.
KENYA : Eagles Fly Past Jkuat in NBA League
BARCLAYS Bank Eagles beat Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology 59-33 in a Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league match at Railways Club. Abel Kimondo shot 21 points and Dan Nalwenge added another 16 for the bankers. The students had 15 from Clinton Kiarie.
Baraka Xtreme nipped upper Hill School 36-34 while Don Bosco suffered a humiliating 36-54 defeat at the hands of Africa Nazarene University (ANU).
Friends of Basketball (FOB) defeated Mount Kenya University- Nairobi 41-31 with Multi Media University (MMU) beating Technical University of Kenya 41-30. Others results saw--Lycans win 32-20 over Deaf Kings, ANU mauled MKU Nairobi 71-45, Our Lady Queen of Peace torched Dolphins 53-30 while Legacy pipped JKUATS Karen 56-51.
JKUATS Juja beat United States International University (USIU) 61-50 while FOB stopped Woodley Knights 63-37. Dankind Academy defeated Deaf Kings 37-12. In the women matches, Ulinzi thumped Parklands Arya Girls 65-24, Footprints whipped ANU 61-40, while Gladiators humbled Buru Buru girls 54-34.
Baraka Xtreme nipped upper Hill School 36-34 while Don Bosco suffered a humiliating 36-54 defeat at the hands of Africa Nazarene University (ANU).
Friends of Basketball (FOB) defeated Mount Kenya University- Nairobi 41-31 with Multi Media University (MMU) beating Technical University of Kenya 41-30. Others results saw--Lycans win 32-20 over Deaf Kings, ANU mauled MKU Nairobi 71-45, Our Lady Queen of Peace torched Dolphins 53-30 while Legacy pipped JKUATS Karen 56-51.
JKUATS Juja beat United States International University (USIU) 61-50 while FOB stopped Woodley Knights 63-37. Dankind Academy defeated Deaf Kings 37-12. In the women matches, Ulinzi thumped Parklands Arya Girls 65-24, Footprints whipped ANU 61-40, while Gladiators humbled Buru Buru girls 54-34.
UGANDA : Canons, KCCA chase top spot
By Julius Senyimba
Airtel National Basketball League
Women
Nabisunsa v KCCA
Men
UCU Canons v Heaters
TODAY evening there will be new Airtel National Basketball League leaders at the end of the two matches at YMCA, Wandegeya.
According to the National Basketball League rules, even the beaten side earns a point after the game, a thing which guarantees UCU Canons and KCCA Leopards’ spots at the top.
Both will go on top but having played a game more, but it may be short-lived if the initial table leaders win their games with a good margin by the end of the week.
UCU despite being without their star Sudi Ulanga who is out with a knock, welcome back Desmond Owili who returns from Kenya to boost the side’s chances against Victoria University Heaters.
Shooting guard Cyrus Kiviri who has geled well with his new teammates after joining from Warriors in the off-season, promised a good show.
“We have to sleep on the top of the table but with a sounding win. We are missing some players but the team is still strong and we will win with a good margin,” vowed Kiviri who has been inspirational in the team's victories.
Meanwhile, in the ladies game, defending champions KCCA clash with struggling Nabisunsa.
Last years’ MVP Flavia Oketcho vowed to do what they do best; winning.
“This league is all about us defending our title and we are going to guard it jealously. And now that we going on top, it will be a stepping stone for us to clinch the title,” Oketcho stressed
Airtel National Basketball League
Women
Nabisunsa v KCCA
Men
UCU Canons v Heaters
TODAY evening there will be new Airtel National Basketball League leaders at the end of the two matches at YMCA, Wandegeya.
According to the National Basketball League rules, even the beaten side earns a point after the game, a thing which guarantees UCU Canons and KCCA Leopards’ spots at the top.
Both will go on top but having played a game more, but it may be short-lived if the initial table leaders win their games with a good margin by the end of the week.
UCU despite being without their star Sudi Ulanga who is out with a knock, welcome back Desmond Owili who returns from Kenya to boost the side’s chances against Victoria University Heaters.
Shooting guard Cyrus Kiviri who has geled well with his new teammates after joining from Warriors in the off-season, promised a good show.
“We have to sleep on the top of the table but with a sounding win. We are missing some players but the team is still strong and we will win with a good margin,” vowed Kiviri who has been inspirational in the team's victories.
Meanwhile, in the ladies game, defending champions KCCA clash with struggling Nabisunsa.
Last years’ MVP Flavia Oketcho vowed to do what they do best; winning.
“This league is all about us defending our title and we are going to guard it jealously. And now that we going on top, it will be a stepping stone for us to clinch the title,” Oketcho stressed
SEYCHELLES : Beau Vallon Heat on fire
On fire Beau Vallon Heat inflicted a second defeat on defending division one champions PLS Hawks at the weekend at Victoria Gymnasium, winning the tie 81-76.
Under the leadership of former Premium Cobras coach Guy Hall, impressive newcomers Beau Vallon Heat have been performing above all expectations this season. Already boasting wins against two of the biggest names in local basketball – PLS Hawks and Premium Cobras – the Heat find themselves atop the nine-team league standings, unbeaten after six games.
Probably not even coach Hall would have predicted such a good start for his team at the start of the season.
The Heat prevailed against the Hawks thanks to great resilience and hard work on the court. They had Jean-Paul Camille and Robert Léon scoring 17 points apiece to lead them to victory. The Hawks got 15 points from Rodney Lozé while Nigerian Alao Solomon and Hendrick Denis had 14 points apiece.
PLS Hawks, meanwhile, have now suffered their second loss in five games – their first defeat coming against third-placed Baya – and they lie in sixth place with 8 points. Hawks did manage a win, however, on an 86-42 score against neighbours RC Dynamics.
Unbeaten in six games, the Heat have a maximum 12 points.
Dynamics are carrying the weight of the table after suffering their seventh straight loss. Besides losing to Hawks at the weekend, the Roche Caïman-based team lost 59-84 against seventh-placed Drifters.
Both teams have seven points but Drifters boast a better head-to-head record against Dynamics and eighth-placed Angels who beat Mont Fleuri Dawgz 66-54 for their first win in six games.
Fourth-placed MBU Rockers took on fifth-placed Premium Cobras in a closely contested game. Cobras eventually ran out winners by a four-point margin – 61-57.
The only match outside the men’s first division that was played during the weekend was the men’s second division match between Juniors and AAP Brothers. Anse Aux Pins-based AAP Brothers strolled to a 72-29 victory to maintain their push for promotion to the top division next year.
S. N.
Under the leadership of former Premium Cobras coach Guy Hall, impressive newcomers Beau Vallon Heat have been performing above all expectations this season. Already boasting wins against two of the biggest names in local basketball – PLS Hawks and Premium Cobras – the Heat find themselves atop the nine-team league standings, unbeaten after six games.
Probably not even coach Hall would have predicted such a good start for his team at the start of the season.
The Heat prevailed against the Hawks thanks to great resilience and hard work on the court. They had Jean-Paul Camille and Robert Léon scoring 17 points apiece to lead them to victory. The Hawks got 15 points from Rodney Lozé while Nigerian Alao Solomon and Hendrick Denis had 14 points apiece.
PLS Hawks, meanwhile, have now suffered their second loss in five games – their first defeat coming against third-placed Baya – and they lie in sixth place with 8 points. Hawks did manage a win, however, on an 86-42 score against neighbours RC Dynamics.
Unbeaten in six games, the Heat have a maximum 12 points.
Dynamics are carrying the weight of the table after suffering their seventh straight loss. Besides losing to Hawks at the weekend, the Roche Caïman-based team lost 59-84 against seventh-placed Drifters.
Both teams have seven points but Drifters boast a better head-to-head record against Dynamics and eighth-placed Angels who beat Mont Fleuri Dawgz 66-54 for their first win in six games.
Fourth-placed MBU Rockers took on fifth-placed Premium Cobras in a closely contested game. Cobras eventually ran out winners by a four-point margin – 61-57.
The only match outside the men’s first division that was played during the weekend was the men’s second division match between Juniors and AAP Brothers. Anse Aux Pins-based AAP Brothers strolled to a 72-29 victory to maintain their push for promotion to the top division next year.
S. N.
28 May 2013
GAMBIA : Senegal win 3 Nation Basketball final
Senegal basketball team has won the trophy against Mauritania in the final clash of the three nation basketball tournament, organised by the Gambia Basketball Association in celebration of the President’s 48th birthday.
Senegal emerged victors after defeating Mauritania in the final competition by 90-48 points.
Senegal gained their qualification to the final after defeating the Gambia 84-42 points in the opening game of the tournament on 23 May 2013.They however lost 41-79 points to Mauritania on Friday.
Earlier in the competition, Mauritania took Gambia by 80-62 points.
At the end of the tournament, winners went home with giant trophies.
Author: Adama K. Jallow
KENYA : Unbeaten Thunder maintain lead in KBF Premier League
Thunder basketball club is at the helm of the Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League with 12 points. The team has so far played six matches winning all of them and in the process beating the 2012 defending champions Co-op Bank. Co-op Bank is placed second with 10 points also having played six matches but losing two of them, the other one coming courtesy of last season’s runners up USIU Tigers.
League debutants Nakuru Club are in third place with 10 points also but have played 8 matches the highest number of matches played by any team so far. They have registered two wins only and the latest came over the past Sunday when they beat Blazers 80-62.
Lions and Strathmore are in the fourth and fifth position respectively with the club that was formerly sponsored by the Kenya Commercial Bank having 9 points while the Makadara based students follow with 8 points. Both teams have played five matches.
Mennonites is in position six with 8 points having played six matches, winning two of those while USIU Tigers follow at seventh place after losing only one of the four matches that they have played. They have 7 points and the loss came courtesy of league leaders Thunder.
UoN Terrorists, Nairobi Aviation and Blazers are in 8th, 9th and 10th respectively with all the three teams sharing 7 points. Terrorists have played five matches so far in the league while Aviation and Blazers have played six matches. Blazers and Aviation have both lost 5 of their matches while Terrorists have lost three of its matches.
The last two places are held by Mombasa based, Kenya Ports Authority who are placed 11th while Ulinzi is placed last in the log. The two teams have played three matches the least number of matches played. KPA has 5 points while Ulinzi who registered a 78-72 win over Nairobi Aviation on Saturday have 4 points.
League debutants Nakuru Club are in third place with 10 points also but have played 8 matches the highest number of matches played by any team so far. They have registered two wins only and the latest came over the past Sunday when they beat Blazers 80-62.
Lions and Strathmore are in the fourth and fifth position respectively with the club that was formerly sponsored by the Kenya Commercial Bank having 9 points while the Makadara based students follow with 8 points. Both teams have played five matches.
Mennonites is in position six with 8 points having played six matches, winning two of those while USIU Tigers follow at seventh place after losing only one of the four matches that they have played. They have 7 points and the loss came courtesy of league leaders Thunder.
UoN Terrorists, Nairobi Aviation and Blazers are in 8th, 9th and 10th respectively with all the three teams sharing 7 points. Terrorists have played five matches so far in the league while Aviation and Blazers have played six matches. Blazers and Aviation have both lost 5 of their matches while Terrorists have lost three of its matches.
The last two places are held by Mombasa based, Kenya Ports Authority who are placed 11th while Ulinzi is placed last in the log. The two teams have played three matches the least number of matches played. KPA has 5 points while Ulinzi who registered a 78-72 win over Nairobi Aviation on Saturday have 4 points.
27 May 2013
KENYA : USIU Flames scorch Oryx as Mennonites arrest Terrorists
Updated on 26/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
USIU Flames the runners up of the 2012 KBF Premier League in the ladies category had an easy outing on Sunday afternoon after they beat fellow university students Kenyatta University Oryx 67-27 at the Nyayo gymnasium.
Flames won all the quarters of the match to hand Oryx their second defeat of the weekend after they had lost out to Storms 58-37 on Saturday. In Sunday’s match 2012’s Most Valuable Player Hilda Indasi had 10 points to her name while her team mate Ghyslaine Uwimana led the scoring charts for USIU with 12 points.
In the first quarter USIU kicked off the match with a resounding 18-6 win a result they registered once more in the 2nd quarter which ended 18-2 to further Oryx’s misery. This put the half time scores at 36-8 in favor of USIU.
The 3rd and 4th quarter saw a similar situation just as the first half of the match where Flames dominated their opponents with a 17-9 win in the 3rd and then sealed of the game with a close 14-10 win in the last quarter. Betty Kananu was KU’s top point scorer with 15 points the highest in the clash.
In the matches played in the men’s category Mennonites were able to see off UoN Terrorists with a 84-53 win. The first half of the match saw both teams settle for a 31-31 draw after Mennonites took charge in the 1st quarter with 14 points against Terrorists 9 points but the students managed to settle in the 2nd quarter which they won 22-17.
The 3rd quarter saw Mennonites push the pedal and they were a handful for the university students when they sunk in 25 points against Terrorists 15 points. In the last quarter Terror could not simply keep up with their opponents and lost getting only 7 points while Mennonites made sure they secure a win with 28 points.
Kushen Diliwe and Collins Ochieng both had 17 points for Mennonites while Felix Odhiambo had 22 points to his name. Hillary Kubai was Terrorists top point scorer with 22 points also followed by Frank Manyala who had 14 points.
KENYA BASKETBALL LEAGUE SUN 26THRESULTS
K.A.A. 26/78 VS UMOJA 36/66
13/13/23/29 16/20/11/19
22 pts Evans Ochieng 31 pts Erick Reuben
12 pts Alphas Muema 11 pts Rodgers Ombati
EQUITY 27/56 VS UPPERHILL 20/47
15/12/07/22 11/09/15/12
13 pts George Omena 19 pts Joseph Ongoro
10 pts Ian Wache
K.C.A.-U 16/42 VS K.U. PIRATES 20/48
08/08/14/12 12/08/13/15
10 pts Erick Wafula 10 pts Collins Wekesa
10 pts Jonah Lando
U.S.I.U. FLAMES 36/67 VS K.U.ORYX 08/27
18/18/17/14 06/02/09/10
12 pts Ghyslaine Uwimana 15 pts Betty Kananu
10 pts Hilda Indasi
10 pts Nancy Atieno
MENNONITES 31/84 VS TERROR 31/53
14/17/25/28 09/22/15/07
22 pts Felix Odhiambo 22 pts Hillary Kubai
17 pts Kushen Diliwe 14 pts Frank Manyala
17 pts Collins Ochieng
BLAZERS 35/62 VS NKR CLUB 30/80
11/24/15/12 15/15/30/20
14 pts Abel Nson 29 pts George Kkarie
13 pts Chris Moseti 22 pts James Okerio
Flames won all the quarters of the match to hand Oryx their second defeat of the weekend after they had lost out to Storms 58-37 on Saturday. In Sunday’s match 2012’s Most Valuable Player Hilda Indasi had 10 points to her name while her team mate Ghyslaine Uwimana led the scoring charts for USIU with 12 points.
In the first quarter USIU kicked off the match with a resounding 18-6 win a result they registered once more in the 2nd quarter which ended 18-2 to further Oryx’s misery. This put the half time scores at 36-8 in favor of USIU.
The 3rd and 4th quarter saw a similar situation just as the first half of the match where Flames dominated their opponents with a 17-9 win in the 3rd and then sealed of the game with a close 14-10 win in the last quarter. Betty Kananu was KU’s top point scorer with 15 points the highest in the clash.
In the matches played in the men’s category Mennonites were able to see off UoN Terrorists with a 84-53 win. The first half of the match saw both teams settle for a 31-31 draw after Mennonites took charge in the 1st quarter with 14 points against Terrorists 9 points but the students managed to settle in the 2nd quarter which they won 22-17.
The 3rd quarter saw Mennonites push the pedal and they were a handful for the university students when they sunk in 25 points against Terrorists 15 points. In the last quarter Terror could not simply keep up with their opponents and lost getting only 7 points while Mennonites made sure they secure a win with 28 points.
Kushen Diliwe and Collins Ochieng both had 17 points for Mennonites while Felix Odhiambo had 22 points to his name. Hillary Kubai was Terrorists top point scorer with 22 points also followed by Frank Manyala who had 14 points.
KENYA BASKETBALL LEAGUE SUN 26THRESULTS
K.A.A. 26/78 VS UMOJA 36/66
13/13/23/29 16/20/11/19
22 pts Evans Ochieng 31 pts Erick Reuben
12 pts Alphas Muema 11 pts Rodgers Ombati
EQUITY 27/56 VS UPPERHILL 20/47
15/12/07/22 11/09/15/12
13 pts George Omena 19 pts Joseph Ongoro
10 pts Ian Wache
K.C.A.-U 16/42 VS K.U. PIRATES 20/48
08/08/14/12 12/08/13/15
10 pts Erick Wafula 10 pts Collins Wekesa
10 pts Jonah Lando
U.S.I.U. FLAMES 36/67 VS K.U.ORYX 08/27
18/18/17/14 06/02/09/10
12 pts Ghyslaine Uwimana 15 pts Betty Kananu
10 pts Hilda Indasi
10 pts Nancy Atieno
MENNONITES 31/84 VS TERROR 31/53
14/17/25/28 09/22/15/07
22 pts Felix Odhiambo 22 pts Hillary Kubai
17 pts Kushen Diliwe 14 pts Frank Manyala
17 pts Collins Ochieng
BLAZERS 35/62 VS NKR CLUB 30/80
11/24/15/12 15/15/30/20
14 pts Abel Nson 29 pts George Kkarie
13 pts Chris Moseti 22 pts James Okerio
KENYA : Double win for KU Pirates in Div One league
Updated on 26/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
The Kenya Basketball Federation Division One league had four matches played at the Nyayo Gymnasium. On Saturday one match played which saw Kenyatta University Pirates overwhelm Parklands 70-54.
Pirates won the first 3 quarters (26-15, 15-7, 12-11) but lost the last quarter with 4 points the scores being 21-17. Richard Adega was the match top scorer getting 18 points for Parklands while Gilbert Obiero sunk in 14 points for the winners.
In Sunday’s matches K.A.A beat Umoja 78-66 in the first match of the day while Equity managed to hold off high school students, Upper Hill 56-47. In the K.A.A versus Umoja match, Umoja took the first half of the match the scores being 36-26 at half time.
The subsequent quarters saw K.A.A rally back with a 23-11 win in the 3rd quarter then made sure they take the 2 league points with a 29-19 win in the last quarter. Evans Ochieng had 22 points for K.A.A while Erick Rueben put his name on the score sheet with an impressive 31 points.
In the last match of the day KU Pirates secured their second win of the weekend after the close encounter against KCA-U. In the first quarter of the match Pirates had 12 points while KCA University had 8 points of which both teams later drew with the same number of points (8 points)in the 2nd quarter.
KCA took charge of the 3rd quarter with a narrow 14-13 win but could not contain Pirates in the last quarter after they lost out with 12 points against their opponents 15 points. Pirates’ duo of Jonah Lando and Collins Wekesa each had 10 points while Erick Wafula also scored 10 points for KCA.
Pirates won the first 3 quarters (26-15, 15-7, 12-11) but lost the last quarter with 4 points the scores being 21-17. Richard Adega was the match top scorer getting 18 points for Parklands while Gilbert Obiero sunk in 14 points for the winners.
In Sunday’s matches K.A.A beat Umoja 78-66 in the first match of the day while Equity managed to hold off high school students, Upper Hill 56-47. In the K.A.A versus Umoja match, Umoja took the first half of the match the scores being 36-26 at half time.
The subsequent quarters saw K.A.A rally back with a 23-11 win in the 3rd quarter then made sure they take the 2 league points with a 29-19 win in the last quarter. Evans Ochieng had 22 points for K.A.A while Erick Rueben put his name on the score sheet with an impressive 31 points.
In the last match of the day KU Pirates secured their second win of the weekend after the close encounter against KCA-U. In the first quarter of the match Pirates had 12 points while KCA University had 8 points of which both teams later drew with the same number of points (8 points)in the 2nd quarter.
KCA took charge of the 3rd quarter with a narrow 14-13 win but could not contain Pirates in the last quarter after they lost out with 12 points against their opponents 15 points. Pirates’ duo of Jonah Lando and Collins Wekesa each had 10 points while Erick Wafula also scored 10 points for KCA.
NIGERIA : Afrobasket Men's Camp Opens As NBBF Reappoints Bakare
The Nigeria Basketball Federation announced yesterday that training camp for Afrobasket men will open in Abuja today, May 26th through Thursday May 30th where 12 players from the home league will sweat it out for inclusion in subsequent camps, invitational tournaments and ultimately in the team to Abidjan in August.
Meanwhile, the federation also yesterday reappointed Coach Ayo Bakare to head the team's coaching staff to build on the success of the programme since 2011 and ensure the sustainable growth of the team into a winning unit. The Olympic team's assistant coach, Sani Ahmed was also returned and Union Bank coach and ex- national captain, Ayinla Johnson returned to the senior team staff after his departure in 2005/2006 when he assisted Coach Sam Vincent.
Two young coaches, Abdulrahman Mohammed of Abuja team, Mark Mentors and Ogoh Odaudu of Portharcourt-based Royal Hoopers were added to the coaching staff as a deliberate succession plan and to ensure that they grow with the program and take over at the appropriate time.The federation hinted that it is considering an essential addition to the coaching staff with expertise in strength and conditioning and or statistics.
The coaching staff for the Afrobasket women's team was also announced. The crew will be headed by veteran Coach Scott Nnaji who was head coach when Nigeria won the Afrobasket in 2005 in Abuja and was an assistant at Mali 2011.
He is to be assisted by Coaches Lateef Erinfolami of First Deepwater and Adewunmi Aderemi of First Bank. The staff also includes Coach Emmanuel Odah of FCT Angels and a female coach to be determined and announced later, who, together will form the succession pair for the future survival and success of the team.
The federation explained that the home-based staff were selected in anticipation of the impending fiba change of calendar and competition format from 2017 which entails playing home and away for continental, world and Olympic qualifiers and therefore requires a unit that is easily mobilized and can stick together over long periods of time.
Meanwhile, the federation also yesterday reappointed Coach Ayo Bakare to head the team's coaching staff to build on the success of the programme since 2011 and ensure the sustainable growth of the team into a winning unit. The Olympic team's assistant coach, Sani Ahmed was also returned and Union Bank coach and ex- national captain, Ayinla Johnson returned to the senior team staff after his departure in 2005/2006 when he assisted Coach Sam Vincent.
Two young coaches, Abdulrahman Mohammed of Abuja team, Mark Mentors and Ogoh Odaudu of Portharcourt-based Royal Hoopers were added to the coaching staff as a deliberate succession plan and to ensure that they grow with the program and take over at the appropriate time.The federation hinted that it is considering an essential addition to the coaching staff with expertise in strength and conditioning and or statistics.
The coaching staff for the Afrobasket women's team was also announced. The crew will be headed by veteran Coach Scott Nnaji who was head coach when Nigeria won the Afrobasket in 2005 in Abuja and was an assistant at Mali 2011.
He is to be assisted by Coaches Lateef Erinfolami of First Deepwater and Adewunmi Aderemi of First Bank. The staff also includes Coach Emmanuel Odah of FCT Angels and a female coach to be determined and announced later, who, together will form the succession pair for the future survival and success of the team.
The federation explained that the home-based staff were selected in anticipation of the impending fiba change of calendar and competition format from 2017 which entails playing home and away for continental, world and Olympic qualifiers and therefore requires a unit that is easily mobilized and can stick together over long periods of time.
UGANDA : UCU Eye Fifth Straight Win
UGANDA Christian University (UCU) Lady Canons have a fresh opportunity to step up their title pursuit in the Airtel National Basketball League today. UCU, leaders in their category, are at home against the lowly Nabisunsa side having won their first four games.
The Mukono-based UCU are eyeing their fourth championship crown in a space of six years. They lost the title 4-3 to KCCA in the last year's playoffs finals. The teams have already met this year with UCU taking victory. The side triumphed at the East and Central Inter-cities show a month ago. UCU's assistant captain and national team point guard Maureen Amoding believes they have the potential to reclaim the title.
"We have the best players around and been together for a while now. We want to dominate the game again," Amoding who has recovered from Malaria stated. Elsewhere, A-1 Challenge will face Makerere Sparks in the day's second game. In the men's category, six-time champions Falcons will be without inspirational player Philip Amenyi against the Vegeterian side.
Amenyi twisted his left ankle and his expected to be out for some time.
There will be more action with Ndejje University taking on Victoria University Heat¬ers while KIU Titans are up against Nkumba Marines.
The Mukono-based UCU are eyeing their fourth championship crown in a space of six years. They lost the title 4-3 to KCCA in the last year's playoffs finals. The teams have already met this year with UCU taking victory. The side triumphed at the East and Central Inter-cities show a month ago. UCU's assistant captain and national team point guard Maureen Amoding believes they have the potential to reclaim the title.
"We have the best players around and been together for a while now. We want to dominate the game again," Amoding who has recovered from Malaria stated. Elsewhere, A-1 Challenge will face Makerere Sparks in the day's second game. In the men's category, six-time champions Falcons will be without inspirational player Philip Amenyi against the Vegeterian side.
Amenyi twisted his left ankle and his expected to be out for some time.
There will be more action with Ndejje University taking on Victoria University Heat¬ers while KIU Titans are up against Nkumba Marines.
KENYA : Eagle Wings chip KCA, Terrorists conquered
Eagle Wings took charge of the women’s premier following a 54-21 win over Kenya College of Accountancy- University, KCA-U, in their only match of the weekend played at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.
The league’s defending champions are now top of the log with 11 points only one ahead of Co-operative Bank who were not in action. The match came barely a week after a shock 46-28 loss to Strathmore University.
They went to the breather enjoying a 28-4 advantage after winning the first two quarters 16-2 and 12-2. The third and fourth quarters were equally easy for Wings who won 12-6 and 14-11 respectively. Vilma Achieng top scored for the winners with 17 points with Sylvia Ongwa hitting 8 for the losing side.
Third placed Sprite Storms garnered two crucial points with a 58-37 win over Kenyatta University Oryx. Susan Akinyi was Storms’ top scorer with 19 points while Betty Kananu scored 8 for Oryx. Storms led 32-19 at halftime.
Oryx was not lucky as they gave away two more precious points on Sunday losing 67-27 to United States International University- Africa, USIU-A, in a one-sided match. Kananu was the top scorer once more scoring 15 of her team's total points.
Hilda Indasi and Nancy Atieno scored 10 points each to lead USIU-A to the huge win. The last year’s runners up walked away with all the quarters.
Co-op winners against Blazers
Co-operative Bank consolidated its second position in the men premier with a 60-50 win over Blazers on Saturday. Leading 30-23 at halftime, the bankers maintained the momentum to ink down two crucial points.
James Mwangi had 12 points for Co-op Bank as Brian Busu and Titus Musembi added 11 apiece. Jay Michoma top scored for Blazers with 17. Co-op Bank won the first three quarters 16-10, 14-13 and 15-12 before the fourth tied at 15-15.
Blazers’ bad run continued on Sunday when they lost 80-62 to visiting Nakuru Club. It was Nakuru’s first away win of the season.
On Saturday, Nakuru lost two valuable points when they went down 67-53 to USIU-A at their own backyard. Okerio garnered 18 individual points for the hosts with Alvin Nyangweso notching 17 for the varsity side. Kevin Kigotho added 15 for the students. USIU-A won the first three quarters 17-8, 13-12 and 21-16 while Nakuru redeemed themselves with the fourth quarter winning 23-16.
Terrorist fall to Lions
University of Nairobi's Terrorist was the other biggest loser of the weekend going down 74-56 to Lions on Saturday and 84-53 to Mennonite Knights on Sunday.
Against Mennonite, they played their hearts out to force a 31-31 tie at halftime. Mennonite won the first quarter 14-9 and Terror 22-17 in the second to level matters. Starting on a level ground in the second half, Terror failed to hold off the challenge as they watched their opponents open up a wide gap unchallenged.
Kushew Diliwe drew first blood for Mennonite with two three-pointers at the onset of the third quarter. Felix Odhiambo added two baskets and a free-throw to take the scores to 40-31.
Terror managed a basket through Frank Manyala as the scores stood at 40-33 inside the first three minutes of the quarter. They ended up winning 25-15. Terror was completely exhausted and frustrated in the fourth quarter which they lost by a huge margin of 28-7. Odhiambo scored 22 points for Mennonite with Diliwe and Collins Ochieng adding 17 each. Hillary Kubai was Terror’s top scorer with 22.
Soni Mugisha, Mennonite head coach, welcomed the win saying it will help them achieve their goal for this season. The Eastleigh based side was locked out of the playoffs bracket last season and that is something Mugisha says they are keen to avoid this time round.
“We are calculating our run very well because this team has to finish in the top five.”
Arguably the best shooting side in the league, Mugisha told Sportsnewsarena.com that most of their training sessions are dediacted to shooting whichhas seen them perfect their show especially on the three-pointers.
Ulinzi stop Aviation
Ulinzi Warriors left it late to beat Nairobi Aviation College 78-72 in one of the hotly contested matches of the weekend. Ulinzi carried the honours in the first two quarters winning 16-12 and 24-17 for a 40-29 lead at halftime.
Aviation won the remaining quarters 29-27 and 14-11 but were not enough to help them to victory.
Bernard Mfutu notched 14 points for Ulinzi while Aviation top scorer was Ssozi Geoffrey with 21. Kenyatta University Pirates reaped handsomely from their weekend outing in division one winning all their two matches.
On Saturday, they beat Parklands Baptist 70-54 helped by 14 points from Gilbert Obiero.
Evans Ochieng hit seven three-pointers and one free-throw in the second half to account for 22 points in Kenya Airports Authority, KAA, 78-66 win over Umoja. Eric Reuben top scored for Umoja with a game high of 31 points that were aided by six three-pointers.
Equity Bank beat Upperhill 56-47 with George Omenda and Ian Wachie contributing 13 points each for the bankers. Joseph Ongoro hit 19 for the students.
Collated Results: Parklands Baptist 54 KU Pirates 70, Sprite Storms 58 KU Oryx 37, Eagle Wings 54 KCA-U 21, Blazers 50 Co-op Bank 60, Ulinzi 78 Nairobi Aviation 72, Lions 74 Terror 56, Nakuru Club 53 USIU-A 67, KAA 78 Umoja 66, KCA-U 42 KU Pirates 48, Equity Bank 56 Upperhill 47, USIU-A 67 KU Oryx 27, Mennonite Knights 84 Terror 53, Blazers 62 Nakuru Club 80.
The league’s defending champions are now top of the log with 11 points only one ahead of Co-operative Bank who were not in action. The match came barely a week after a shock 46-28 loss to Strathmore University.
They went to the breather enjoying a 28-4 advantage after winning the first two quarters 16-2 and 12-2. The third and fourth quarters were equally easy for Wings who won 12-6 and 14-11 respectively. Vilma Achieng top scored for the winners with 17 points with Sylvia Ongwa hitting 8 for the losing side.
Third placed Sprite Storms garnered two crucial points with a 58-37 win over Kenyatta University Oryx. Susan Akinyi was Storms’ top scorer with 19 points while Betty Kananu scored 8 for Oryx. Storms led 32-19 at halftime.
Oryx was not lucky as they gave away two more precious points on Sunday losing 67-27 to United States International University- Africa, USIU-A, in a one-sided match. Kananu was the top scorer once more scoring 15 of her team's total points.
Hilda Indasi and Nancy Atieno scored 10 points each to lead USIU-A to the huge win. The last year’s runners up walked away with all the quarters.
Co-op winners against Blazers
Co-operative Bank consolidated its second position in the men premier with a 60-50 win over Blazers on Saturday. Leading 30-23 at halftime, the bankers maintained the momentum to ink down two crucial points.
James Mwangi had 12 points for Co-op Bank as Brian Busu and Titus Musembi added 11 apiece. Jay Michoma top scored for Blazers with 17. Co-op Bank won the first three quarters 16-10, 14-13 and 15-12 before the fourth tied at 15-15.
Blazers’ bad run continued on Sunday when they lost 80-62 to visiting Nakuru Club. It was Nakuru’s first away win of the season.
On Saturday, Nakuru lost two valuable points when they went down 67-53 to USIU-A at their own backyard. Okerio garnered 18 individual points for the hosts with Alvin Nyangweso notching 17 for the varsity side. Kevin Kigotho added 15 for the students. USIU-A won the first three quarters 17-8, 13-12 and 21-16 while Nakuru redeemed themselves with the fourth quarter winning 23-16.
Terrorist fall to Lions
University of Nairobi's Terrorist was the other biggest loser of the weekend going down 74-56 to Lions on Saturday and 84-53 to Mennonite Knights on Sunday.
Against Mennonite, they played their hearts out to force a 31-31 tie at halftime. Mennonite won the first quarter 14-9 and Terror 22-17 in the second to level matters. Starting on a level ground in the second half, Terror failed to hold off the challenge as they watched their opponents open up a wide gap unchallenged.
Kushew Diliwe drew first blood for Mennonite with two three-pointers at the onset of the third quarter. Felix Odhiambo added two baskets and a free-throw to take the scores to 40-31.
Terror managed a basket through Frank Manyala as the scores stood at 40-33 inside the first three minutes of the quarter. They ended up winning 25-15. Terror was completely exhausted and frustrated in the fourth quarter which they lost by a huge margin of 28-7. Odhiambo scored 22 points for Mennonite with Diliwe and Collins Ochieng adding 17 each. Hillary Kubai was Terror’s top scorer with 22.
Soni Mugisha, Mennonite head coach, welcomed the win saying it will help them achieve their goal for this season. The Eastleigh based side was locked out of the playoffs bracket last season and that is something Mugisha says they are keen to avoid this time round.
“We are calculating our run very well because this team has to finish in the top five.”
Arguably the best shooting side in the league, Mugisha told Sportsnewsarena.com that most of their training sessions are dediacted to shooting whichhas seen them perfect their show especially on the three-pointers.
Ulinzi stop Aviation
Ulinzi Warriors left it late to beat Nairobi Aviation College 78-72 in one of the hotly contested matches of the weekend. Ulinzi carried the honours in the first two quarters winning 16-12 and 24-17 for a 40-29 lead at halftime.
Aviation won the remaining quarters 29-27 and 14-11 but were not enough to help them to victory.
Bernard Mfutu notched 14 points for Ulinzi while Aviation top scorer was Ssozi Geoffrey with 21. Kenyatta University Pirates reaped handsomely from their weekend outing in division one winning all their two matches.
On Saturday, they beat Parklands Baptist 70-54 helped by 14 points from Gilbert Obiero.
Evans Ochieng hit seven three-pointers and one free-throw in the second half to account for 22 points in Kenya Airports Authority, KAA, 78-66 win over Umoja. Eric Reuben top scored for Umoja with a game high of 31 points that were aided by six three-pointers.
Equity Bank beat Upperhill 56-47 with George Omenda and Ian Wachie contributing 13 points each for the bankers. Joseph Ongoro hit 19 for the students.
Collated Results: Parklands Baptist 54 KU Pirates 70, Sprite Storms 58 KU Oryx 37, Eagle Wings 54 KCA-U 21, Blazers 50 Co-op Bank 60, Ulinzi 78 Nairobi Aviation 72, Lions 74 Terror 56, Nakuru Club 53 USIU-A 67, KAA 78 Umoja 66, KCA-U 42 KU Pirates 48, Equity Bank 56 Upperhill 47, USIU-A 67 KU Oryx 27, Mennonite Knights 84 Terror 53, Blazers 62 Nakuru Club 80.
NIGERIA : Basketball Federation Re-Appoints Ayo Bakare, Others As Coaches
The coach of the men's team at the 2012 Olympics was re-appointed.
The Nigerian Basketball Federation, NBBF, has appointed coaches for the male and female national team prior to the AfroBasket tournament coming up for both teams.
The coach of the senior men's basketball team, Ayo Bakare, who tendered his resignation letter after the London 2012 Olympics, has been reappointed as coach for the national team while Scott Nnaji was appointed as coach of the female team.
The newly re-elected President of the Federation, Tijani Umar, said there was no sentiment applied in the selection of the national team coaches.
"We are bringing continuity, sustainability, and people who have tremendous belief in the country. Coaches are not chosen on sentiment but what they can bring to the table," he said.
The coaches are expected to resume work with immediate effect.
Addressing the issue of poor relationships between players and coaches, Mr. Umar said, "This a great opportunity for every player playing for the national team; playing for the national team is like giving back to the country. Coaches are in charge and no player is expected to disrespect them. If any players does not like a particular coach, he will have to stay away from the team."
Below are the names of the appointed coaches:
Men's Team - Coaching Staff
Ayo Bakare - Head Coach
Sani Ahmed - Assistant Coach
Ayinla Johnson - Assistant Coach
Abdulrahman Mohammed - Assistant Coach
Ogoh Odaudu - Assistant Coach
Women's Team - Coaching Staff
Scott Nnaji - Head Coach
Lateef Erinfolami - Assistant Coach
Adewunmi Aderemi - Assistant Coach
Emmanuel Odah - Assistant Coach
The Nigerian Basketball Federation, NBBF, has appointed coaches for the male and female national team prior to the AfroBasket tournament coming up for both teams.
The coach of the senior men's basketball team, Ayo Bakare, who tendered his resignation letter after the London 2012 Olympics, has been reappointed as coach for the national team while Scott Nnaji was appointed as coach of the female team.
The newly re-elected President of the Federation, Tijani Umar, said there was no sentiment applied in the selection of the national team coaches.
"We are bringing continuity, sustainability, and people who have tremendous belief in the country. Coaches are not chosen on sentiment but what they can bring to the table," he said.
The coaches are expected to resume work with immediate effect.
Addressing the issue of poor relationships between players and coaches, Mr. Umar said, "This a great opportunity for every player playing for the national team; playing for the national team is like giving back to the country. Coaches are in charge and no player is expected to disrespect them. If any players does not like a particular coach, he will have to stay away from the team."
Below are the names of the appointed coaches:
Men's Team - Coaching Staff
Ayo Bakare - Head Coach
Sani Ahmed - Assistant Coach
Ayinla Johnson - Assistant Coach
Abdulrahman Mohammed - Assistant Coach
Ogoh Odaudu - Assistant Coach
Women's Team - Coaching Staff
Scott Nnaji - Head Coach
Lateef Erinfolami - Assistant Coach
Adewunmi Aderemi - Assistant Coach
Emmanuel Odah - Assistant Coach
Tanzania: Bravo Kikwete for Employing Expatriate Basketball Coach
THE government has confirmed that President Jakaya Kikwete has agreed to pay the salary of national basketball team coach Albert Sokaitis from the United States of America.
The good news was broken by the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Dr Fenella Mukangara, when presenting her ministry's 2013-14 budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma early this week.
She noted that Sokaitis is already in the country and the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) is in initial stages to enter into contract with him. We congratulate President Kikwete for his commitment in improving the standard of the country's sports.
This is not the first time he offers support to sports associations in their endeavour to turn around their fortunes. He has already helped several other associations and he seems ready to continue doing so.
On June 29, 2006, Marcio Maximo from Brazil was appointed head coach of the Tanzania national team (Taifa Stars) with the government paying his salary and other benefits.
In August 2010, he extended the offer to Maximo's successor Jan Poulsen from Denmark and even incumbent national coach Kim Poulsen is in the government's payroll.
The Netball Association of Tanzania (Chaneta) also enjoyed the president's generosity when in 2010 it was allowed to engage an Australian expatriate, Simone McKinnis, who, however, stayed in the country for four months only.
Under the president's initiative, the government had also hired athletics, boxing and judo coaches from Cuba. This is the first time TBF deploys a coach on a long-term basis for promotion of the game and as its officials say, the arrival of the coach will be a key step in basketball promotion, particularly for young players.
We hope that the federation will live up to its word as that is the best way to reciprocate Kikwete's gesture. It will be unwise and totally ungrateful for TBF to repeat mistakes done by other associations.
McKinnis, for example, was forced to resign by weaknesses in the implementation of her contract and also because she was not impressed with the way netball was being run in the country. The Australian was fed up with the poor services she received during her brief stay in the country.
She complained of, among other things, delay in payment of her salaries which, instead of being paid in foreign currency as agreed, she was paid in Tanzanian shillings. But we also expect the government to fill in the void left by McKinnis as promised by Minister Mukangara in 2011 when she said the government was already working on arrangements to recruit a replacement.
The good news was broken by the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Dr Fenella Mukangara, when presenting her ministry's 2013-14 budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma early this week.
She noted that Sokaitis is already in the country and the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) is in initial stages to enter into contract with him. We congratulate President Kikwete for his commitment in improving the standard of the country's sports.
This is not the first time he offers support to sports associations in their endeavour to turn around their fortunes. He has already helped several other associations and he seems ready to continue doing so.
On June 29, 2006, Marcio Maximo from Brazil was appointed head coach of the Tanzania national team (Taifa Stars) with the government paying his salary and other benefits.
In August 2010, he extended the offer to Maximo's successor Jan Poulsen from Denmark and even incumbent national coach Kim Poulsen is in the government's payroll.
The Netball Association of Tanzania (Chaneta) also enjoyed the president's generosity when in 2010 it was allowed to engage an Australian expatriate, Simone McKinnis, who, however, stayed in the country for four months only.
Under the president's initiative, the government had also hired athletics, boxing and judo coaches from Cuba. This is the first time TBF deploys a coach on a long-term basis for promotion of the game and as its officials say, the arrival of the coach will be a key step in basketball promotion, particularly for young players.
We hope that the federation will live up to its word as that is the best way to reciprocate Kikwete's gesture. It will be unwise and totally ungrateful for TBF to repeat mistakes done by other associations.
McKinnis, for example, was forced to resign by weaknesses in the implementation of her contract and also because she was not impressed with the way netball was being run in the country. The Australian was fed up with the poor services she received during her brief stay in the country.
She complained of, among other things, delay in payment of her salaries which, instead of being paid in foreign currency as agreed, she was paid in Tanzanian shillings. But we also expect the government to fill in the void left by McKinnis as promised by Minister Mukangara in 2011 when she said the government was already working on arrangements to recruit a replacement.
RWANDA : Espoir sign Hakizimana
Hakizimana Lionnel seen here in national team colours has joined champions Espoir BBC on a two-year contract. The New Times / File.
THE National basketball league champions, Espoir basketball club have signed point guard Lionel Hakizimana from rivals APR on a two year-deal.
The development was confirmed yesterday by Espoir head coach Jean Bahufite.
He said that Hakizimana’s signing highlights the club’s vision of giving chance to young players as well as strengthening the club ahead of the 2013/14 season which gets underway in June.
According to Bahufite, recruiting Hakizimana is a good signal since the latter has gained vital experience which will help his team record many more successes especially if he blends well with other influential players such as Bievenu Ngandu, Aristide Mugabe and Olivier Shyaka.
“We want to have a team comprised of both young and experienced players such that as time goes by, we can have a solid team which will be able to compete at the highest level.”
Besides Hakizimana, Espoir has also signed promising youngster Fabrice Ruterana.
“It’s important to strengthen our team in preparation for next season. Hakizimana is a good player while Ruterana still has to work hard and needs time to prove his worth since he is still young. But they will all be good players in future,” added Bahufite.
Hakizimana has previously played for CSK and guided them to the Memorial Gisembe tournament in 2011/12 season and APR last season.
In April, Bahufite made history by becoming the first coach to lead Espoir to the league title for the first time in eight years with an unbeaten record.
Unbeaten Espoir celebrated their fourth national basketball league regular season title after trouncing 30-Plus 133-30.
The Nyamirambo-based outfit won all their 17 league games to remain the only unbeaten team this season, and made 17 straight wins, setting a new record that was not held by any Rwandan league champion.
After clinching the league, they went on to win the Play-offs tournament, still unbeaten.
Espoir won all three games which helped them to win two titles in what has been an outstanding season for the oldest basketball club in Rwanda.
They won Game One 89-63 and Game Two 106-54 and Game Three 78-68 respectively.
The win helped Espoir to add two titles to the Zone Five club championship crown they won last year in Kampala after beating Burundi’s Urumuri in the final.
24 May 2013
KENYA : Co-op Bank faces Blazers in KBF Premier League
Updated on 24/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League defending champions Co-op Bank will be meeting Blazers as the league resumes this weekend at the Nyayo Gymnasium from 1:30 pm.
Co-op Bank beat Strathmore Blades 82-61 last Saturday while Blazers lost 76-96 to last year’s runners up USIU Tigers on Sunday. Both teams have lost to league leaders Thunder basketball that is still unbeaten in the league.
Lions Club will be also in action as they face UoN Terrorists in the last game of the day at 4:30 pm. In the ladies category Defending Champions Eagle Wings will be seeking to recover from a shock defeat in the hands of Strathmore University Swords last Sunday. Eagle Wings suffered their first defeat of the season since the league kicked off in April after they went down 46-28.
Below are the full weekend fixtures for the league:
Saturday 25th May
Storms vs K.u.oryx 10.30
Eagle wings vs KCA-U 12.00
Blazers vs Co-op Bank 1.30
Ulinzi vs Nairobi Aviation 3.00
Lions vs Terror 4.30
Nakuru Club vs USIU 12.00 (Nakuru)
Sunday 26th May
USIU vs K.u.oryx 1.30
Mennonites vs Terror 3.00
Blazers vs Nakuru Club 4.30
Co-op Bank beat Strathmore Blades 82-61 last Saturday while Blazers lost 76-96 to last year’s runners up USIU Tigers on Sunday. Both teams have lost to league leaders Thunder basketball that is still unbeaten in the league.
Lions Club will be also in action as they face UoN Terrorists in the last game of the day at 4:30 pm. In the ladies category Defending Champions Eagle Wings will be seeking to recover from a shock defeat in the hands of Strathmore University Swords last Sunday. Eagle Wings suffered their first defeat of the season since the league kicked off in April after they went down 46-28.
Below are the full weekend fixtures for the league:
Saturday 25th May
Storms vs K.u.oryx 10.30
Eagle wings vs KCA-U 12.00
Blazers vs Co-op Bank 1.30
Ulinzi vs Nairobi Aviation 3.00
Lions vs Terror 4.30
Nakuru Club vs USIU 12.00 (Nakuru)
Sunday 26th May
USIU vs K.u.oryx 1.30
Mennonites vs Terror 3.00
Blazers vs Nakuru Club 4.30
23 May 2013
MALAWI : Bricks qualifies for Sozobal finals
Bricks are just a step into the Kati Scales Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal) title defence after winning against Crazy Warriors 62-59 and 78-60 during the play-offs at the Blantyre Youth Centre (BYC) on Sunday.
However, their rivals Magang’a, tied on both points and aggregate with Lox360, will have to get into an extra decisive match to qualify for the finals. Magang’a beat Lox360 69-57, but Lox360 retaliated with a 96-84 triumph in the second game.
According to Sozobal general secretary, Banthari Banda, the semi-final game between Magang’a and Lox360 will be played after the Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) All-Stars National Championships in Mzuzu on November 3.
But Banda said the losing team in this encounter will face Crazy Warriors in a third-place encounter as the best three teams will make it into the National Basketball Championships at the end of this end.
Bricks, Lox360, Magang’a and Crazy Warriors could automatically be the champions, runners-up, third-placed and fourth placed teams in the 11-team league after the completion of the second-round matches a fortnight ago, but Sozobal revived the play-offs format to make the contest more competitive.
At the end of the second round, Bricks topped the table with 34 points from 19 games whereas Lox360, Magang’a and Crazy Warriors completed their games with 32, 30 and 24 points respectively.
However, their rivals Magang’a, tied on both points and aggregate with Lox360, will have to get into an extra decisive match to qualify for the finals. Magang’a beat Lox360 69-57, but Lox360 retaliated with a 96-84 triumph in the second game.
According to Sozobal general secretary, Banthari Banda, the semi-final game between Magang’a and Lox360 will be played after the Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) All-Stars National Championships in Mzuzu on November 3.
But Banda said the losing team in this encounter will face Crazy Warriors in a third-place encounter as the best three teams will make it into the National Basketball Championships at the end of this end.
Bricks, Lox360, Magang’a and Crazy Warriors could automatically be the champions, runners-up, third-placed and fourth placed teams in the 11-team league after the completion of the second-round matches a fortnight ago, but Sozobal revived the play-offs format to make the contest more competitive.
At the end of the second round, Bricks topped the table with 34 points from 19 games whereas Lox360, Magang’a and Crazy Warriors completed their games with 32, 30 and 24 points respectively.
MALAWI : Basketball coaches form association
Basketball Coaches Association (BCA) has been formed to promote the career across the country, Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) technical director Obed Nyirongo has announced.
The basketball family took advantage of a recent All Stars tournament at the African Bible College in Lilongwe to establish the committee whose interim chairperson is Dean Lungu, Nyirongo said.
Lungu, from the Central Zone Basketball League (Cezobal), will be deputised by Nyirongo from the Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal). Sozobal player Hope Chisamanga is the general secretary and development coach.
“Each zone has one coach representative among the executive members. Nozobal has Young Jere. Others are Tonderai Mutasa (Cezobal) and Justin Luwemba (Sozobal),†Nyirongo said.
The polls for the coaches association took place during the All Stars finals which Sozobal won after defeating Cezobal 76-66.
Basmal president Raymond Banda was over the moon appreciating the skills players showcased during the finals. He encouraged them to work hard as one way of enticing sponsors
The basketball family took advantage of a recent All Stars tournament at the African Bible College in Lilongwe to establish the committee whose interim chairperson is Dean Lungu, Nyirongo said.
Lungu, from the Central Zone Basketball League (Cezobal), will be deputised by Nyirongo from the Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal). Sozobal player Hope Chisamanga is the general secretary and development coach.
“Each zone has one coach representative among the executive members. Nozobal has Young Jere. Others are Tonderai Mutasa (Cezobal) and Justin Luwemba (Sozobal),†Nyirongo said.
The polls for the coaches association took place during the All Stars finals which Sozobal won after defeating Cezobal 76-66.
Basmal president Raymond Banda was over the moon appreciating the skills players showcased during the finals. He encouraged them to work hard as one way of enticing sponsors
MALAWI : Lady Dynamites tie with Clippers at top
Lady Dynamites have tied with leaders Capital Clippers on top of the Central Zone Basketball Women League.
Dynamites trounced sixth-placed Lady Bucks 47-17 on Wednesday evening at ABC Gymnasium Court to share the top seat with Clippers on six points.
The Dynamites dominated the proceedings in all quarters. They are disadvantaged on second position with a difference of 10 baskets.
Both teams share unbeaten run from three games.
Clippers have netted 183 baskets against 94 while Dynamites have scored 167 baskets and conceded 84.
According to log table, Blue Eagles Ladies, who also have six points are on third position from four games.
Lady Bayonets and ABC Ladies are on positions five and six respectively with a three point tie.
In men’s league, defending champions Mimbulu beat Trojans 80-61 the same evening to ascend to fourth from seven games.
Blazers are topping the table with 11 points from six games. Disciples are on second position, also with 11 points from seven.
ABC Lions are on third position with 10 points from five games.
Dynamites trounced sixth-placed Lady Bucks 47-17 on Wednesday evening at ABC Gymnasium Court to share the top seat with Clippers on six points.
The Dynamites dominated the proceedings in all quarters. They are disadvantaged on second position with a difference of 10 baskets.
Both teams share unbeaten run from three games.
Clippers have netted 183 baskets against 94 while Dynamites have scored 167 baskets and conceded 84.
According to log table, Blue Eagles Ladies, who also have six points are on third position from four games.
Lady Bayonets and ABC Ladies are on positions five and six respectively with a three point tie.
In men’s league, defending champions Mimbulu beat Trojans 80-61 the same evening to ascend to fourth from seven games.
Blazers are topping the table with 11 points from six games. Disciples are on second position, also with 11 points from seven.
ABC Lions are on third position with 10 points from five games.
MALAWI : Malawi out of Afro Basketball championship
Malawi compete at the 2013 Afro Basketball Zone VI Under-16 Championship next month in Zimbabwe, Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) has said.
Basmal technical director Obed Nyirongo revealed this on Thursday when asked about reports in Zimbabwean newspapers that Malawi would be among participating teams at the international event.
The competition, to run from April 25 to May 3, is for boys and girls basketball teams. For Malawi to participate, it needed to have both boys and girls teams.
“We are not sending a team to Zimbabwe. We have never had a national women’s team. The women only participate in all-stars regional competitions. We are trying to form a women’s national team starting with an Under-19 all-stars team,” Nyirongo said.
He said Basmal hopes that the all-stars squad would mature for qualification for the 2016 Olympic Games to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Zimbabwe’s Herald newspaper last week reported that following the recent qualification of Zimbabwe women’s basketball team for the 2013 Afro Basketball Women’s Championship, the country was awarded the right to host the event.
The 2013 Afro Basketball Zone VI Under-16 will bring together teams from nine southern Africa countries namely, South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and hosts Zimbabwe.
In a statement, Basketball Union of Zimbabwe (BUZ) president Addison Chiware described hosting the event as a step in the right direction.
“As we enter one of the most inspirational sporting years of our generation, we have already started to capitalise on the unique opportunity, creating a long-lasting sporting legacy for future generations in Zimbabwe and across Africa,” Chiware was quoted as saying.
Basmal technical director Obed Nyirongo revealed this on Thursday when asked about reports in Zimbabwean newspapers that Malawi would be among participating teams at the international event.
The competition, to run from April 25 to May 3, is for boys and girls basketball teams. For Malawi to participate, it needed to have both boys and girls teams.
“We are not sending a team to Zimbabwe. We have never had a national women’s team. The women only participate in all-stars regional competitions. We are trying to form a women’s national team starting with an Under-19 all-stars team,” Nyirongo said.
He said Basmal hopes that the all-stars squad would mature for qualification for the 2016 Olympic Games to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Zimbabwe’s Herald newspaper last week reported that following the recent qualification of Zimbabwe women’s basketball team for the 2013 Afro Basketball Women’s Championship, the country was awarded the right to host the event.
The 2013 Afro Basketball Zone VI Under-16 will bring together teams from nine southern Africa countries namely, South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and hosts Zimbabwe.
In a statement, Basketball Union of Zimbabwe (BUZ) president Addison Chiware described hosting the event as a step in the right direction.
“As we enter one of the most inspirational sporting years of our generation, we have already started to capitalise on the unique opportunity, creating a long-lasting sporting legacy for future generations in Zimbabwe and across Africa,” Chiware was quoted as saying.
LESOTHO : Basketball finally getting attention
MASERU — Lesotho Basketball Association (LBA) public relations officer, Ratšolo Molupe, says basketball is finally getting the recognition it deserves in the country.
Molupe told the Lesotho Times that their national league has become stronger despite the financial struggles that pose a major threat to young Basotho basketball enthusiasts looking to make the best out of their talent.
“The situation is very bad for the sport.
“However, we are not ready to give up the fight and we will continue with the struggle with the hope of getting sponsors soon,” Molupe said.
“We don’t have enough playing courts and the association has to dig deep into their pockets to secure grounds for the games to be played.”
He said the association is faced with sponsorship challenges, which prevented them from getting the necessary equipment and resources to help improve the game in the country.
LBA has eight teams in their national league while they have also introduced a league for the youths at high school level.
“We came with good strategies before the start of our calendar year as we searched for means and ways to improve the sport and so far so good. Things are working quite well,” said Molupe.
“We have also been encouraged by the crowds that grace our games on weekends as the sport continues to catch the attention of the youth in our country,” he said.
He said the association now has a committee made up of players and those in leadership whose main aim is to source funds to improve the game.
Rovers from Roma are favourites to clinch the 2012-13 national basketball league title.
Molupe told the Lesotho Times that their national league has become stronger despite the financial struggles that pose a major threat to young Basotho basketball enthusiasts looking to make the best out of their talent.
“The situation is very bad for the sport.
“However, we are not ready to give up the fight and we will continue with the struggle with the hope of getting sponsors soon,” Molupe said.
“We don’t have enough playing courts and the association has to dig deep into their pockets to secure grounds for the games to be played.”
He said the association is faced with sponsorship challenges, which prevented them from getting the necessary equipment and resources to help improve the game in the country.
LBA has eight teams in their national league while they have also introduced a league for the youths at high school level.
“We came with good strategies before the start of our calendar year as we searched for means and ways to improve the sport and so far so good. Things are working quite well,” said Molupe.
“We have also been encouraged by the crowds that grace our games on weekends as the sport continues to catch the attention of the youth in our country,” he said.
He said the association now has a committee made up of players and those in leadership whose main aim is to source funds to improve the game.
Rovers from Roma are favourites to clinch the 2012-13 national basketball league title.
NAMIBIA : German Aid for Shooting Hoops
Windhoek — The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) announced another short-term project aiming at developing basketball in Namibia.
German expert Peter Schey, who is no stranger to Namibia, arrived last week Friday to conduct a series of coaching clinics for teachers, coaches and youth players in Tsumeb, Ongwediva and Rundu.
The focus will be on 3x3 basketball, a competition form that is part of the Youth Olympic Games and might be introduced at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Schey will be assisted by NBF Development Officer, Francina Netumbo Amakali and other regional coaches.
It is his third project in Namibia after previous visits in 2010 and 2012. Part of this short-term project are donations to the value of approximately N$30 000, comprising of basketballs, rims, backboards and other equipment. Schey, a 43-year-old teacher and former professional basketball player, returns to Germany next week Friday.
The short-term project is part of the technical cooperation between Germany and Namibia and complements the long-term project already carried out by expert Frank Albin for the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.
German expert Peter Schey, who is no stranger to Namibia, arrived last week Friday to conduct a series of coaching clinics for teachers, coaches and youth players in Tsumeb, Ongwediva and Rundu.
The focus will be on 3x3 basketball, a competition form that is part of the Youth Olympic Games and might be introduced at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Schey will be assisted by NBF Development Officer, Francina Netumbo Amakali and other regional coaches.
It is his third project in Namibia after previous visits in 2010 and 2012. Part of this short-term project are donations to the value of approximately N$30 000, comprising of basketballs, rims, backboards and other equipment. Schey, a 43-year-old teacher and former professional basketball player, returns to Germany next week Friday.
The short-term project is part of the technical cooperation between Germany and Namibia and complements the long-term project already carried out by expert Frank Albin for the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.
ANGOLA : Angola: National Basketball Team Starts Preparation in Bié Province
Luanda — Angola's national men team of basketball that will take final shape on May 30 will start its preparation in central Bie province, ahead of the Afrobasket2013 set for August 20-31, in Cote d'Ioive, Angop learnt.
Medical tests an administrative issues will be handled on June 03-14, whereas physical, technical and tactic preparation will start on the 16th in Bié.
Meanwhile, the second phase of the training will start in central Benguela province on May 23, before returning to Luanda for the last training period.
A period of friendly games will be held in Spain on dates still to be announced.
The Angolan team will leave for the venue of the competition on August 17. Angola will play Cape Verde, Mozambique and Central Africa Republic
Medical tests an administrative issues will be handled on June 03-14, whereas physical, technical and tactic preparation will start on the 16th in Bié.
Meanwhile, the second phase of the training will start in central Benguela province on May 23, before returning to Luanda for the last training period.
A period of friendly games will be held in Spain on dates still to be announced.
The Angolan team will leave for the venue of the competition on August 17. Angola will play Cape Verde, Mozambique and Central Africa Republic
KENYA : Police Canteen to host Madaraka tournament
Updated on 23/05/13 | By DENNIS MACHIO
The 2013 Madaraka Day basketball tournament will be held on the weekend of 1st to 2nd June in Kakamega at the Police Canteen.
Teams have been urged to register in time before the 28th May 2013 deadline with registration fees being 4,000 shillings per team.
Teams have been urged to register in time before the 28th May 2013 deadline with registration fees being 4,000 shillings per team.
NIGERIA : Country Has Potentials to Be Africa's Top Basketball Nation - Ugboaja
A member of the Nigeria men's basketball team to the 2012 London Olympic Games, EjikeUgboaja has said that Nigeria has the potentials of becoming a leading basketball nation in Africa if the best are selected to represent the country.
The former Yelwa Hawks playmaker, who stated this in a chat with reporters in Abuja, said most times the national team is selected on sentiments, which makes it difficult for the country to overcome the likes of Senegal and Angola who have for long dominated African basketball.
According to him, Nigeria has a lot of local talents that can beat African giants and move on to challenge for top prizes in the world.
"The problem with the Nigerian basketball team is that most of the players are picked based on sentiment, but if we should pick our players on merit, Nigeria can produce a team of local players that can beat Angola.
"So, for us to move forward there is need to hire expatriate coaches from Europe and America to handle our national teams," he said.
Speaking further, Ugboaja said the annual Ejike Ugboaja Foundation clinic that has offered scholarship to 110 Nigerian kids will start in Uyo on June 2, while Otukpo and Abuja will take their turn June 9 and 16 respectively.
"I have a foundation that can give young people the opportunity to school in the US and it has been helping a lot of our kids back here in Nigeria.
"The foundation is about helping our kids Ugboaja to get education abroad and I have an opportunity through my career to get the people out there to listen to me, because I know that ordinarily, it will be difficult for anybody to get the opportunity to school in the US.
"This year's edition will start in Uyo on June 2, Otukpo will come up June 9 while the Abuja edition will hold June 16 to help select the best for the annual scholarship award.
"When I was playing here, there was nobody to help me to go there and that is while I established this foundation to basically help kids go out there and have education.
"The 110 kids so far picked have full scholarship and if they turn out to be good basketball players, they have bright opportunity of playing in the NBA," he concluded
The former Yelwa Hawks playmaker, who stated this in a chat with reporters in Abuja, said most times the national team is selected on sentiments, which makes it difficult for the country to overcome the likes of Senegal and Angola who have for long dominated African basketball.
According to him, Nigeria has a lot of local talents that can beat African giants and move on to challenge for top prizes in the world.
"The problem with the Nigerian basketball team is that most of the players are picked based on sentiment, but if we should pick our players on merit, Nigeria can produce a team of local players that can beat Angola.
"So, for us to move forward there is need to hire expatriate coaches from Europe and America to handle our national teams," he said.
Speaking further, Ugboaja said the annual Ejike Ugboaja Foundation clinic that has offered scholarship to 110 Nigerian kids will start in Uyo on June 2, while Otukpo and Abuja will take their turn June 9 and 16 respectively.
"I have a foundation that can give young people the opportunity to school in the US and it has been helping a lot of our kids back here in Nigeria.
"The foundation is about helping our kids Ugboaja to get education abroad and I have an opportunity through my career to get the people out there to listen to me, because I know that ordinarily, it will be difficult for anybody to get the opportunity to school in the US.
"This year's edition will start in Uyo on June 2, Otukpo will come up June 9 while the Abuja edition will hold June 16 to help select the best for the annual scholarship award.
"When I was playing here, there was nobody to help me to go there and that is while I established this foundation to basically help kids go out there and have education.
"The 110 kids so far picked have full scholarship and if they turn out to be good basketball players, they have bright opportunity of playing in the NBA," he concluded
KENYA : Nazarene University Pip Old Pirates in NBA Duel
OLD Pirates suffered a shock 52-50 loss at the hands of Africa Nazarene University in an entertaining Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league tie at Railways Club.
A driving lay up by Valentine Wachira separated the two sides. Coseiga Bayless led the "Wolfpacks" with 16 while Mannaseh Otieno managed the losers 12.
Don Bosco whipped United States International University 72-33 as Joel Atebe posted 27 points. Friends of Basketball (FOB) beat Neosasa Morans 46-40. Francis Odhiambo posted game high of 36 points as FOB won 70-34 over CFC Stanbic Bank. Dankind Academy dimmed Dolphins 45-25. JKUATS won 52-33 against Woodley Knights. Upper Hill pipped JKUATS Karen 51-46. Mt. Kenya University Thika upstaged JKUATS, Karen 76-44. Legacy snapped their losing run with a 57-35 over stubborn Dolphins.
Dankind Academy beat Our Lady Queen of Peace 47-36. Women champions Strathmore University dismissed Metroloplitan school champions Buru Buru Girls 49-34. Parklands Arya stunned Jkuat Juja 48-38.
Ulinzi "Blades" cut Jkuat Juja 66-30 . Gladiators thumped Zetech College 63-33 while Parklands Arya whipped ANU 62-39.
A driving lay up by Valentine Wachira separated the two sides. Coseiga Bayless led the "Wolfpacks" with 16 while Mannaseh Otieno managed the losers 12.
Don Bosco whipped United States International University 72-33 as Joel Atebe posted 27 points. Friends of Basketball (FOB) beat Neosasa Morans 46-40. Francis Odhiambo posted game high of 36 points as FOB won 70-34 over CFC Stanbic Bank. Dankind Academy dimmed Dolphins 45-25. JKUATS won 52-33 against Woodley Knights. Upper Hill pipped JKUATS Karen 51-46. Mt. Kenya University Thika upstaged JKUATS, Karen 76-44. Legacy snapped their losing run with a 57-35 over stubborn Dolphins.
Dankind Academy beat Our Lady Queen of Peace 47-36. Women champions Strathmore University dismissed Metroloplitan school champions Buru Buru Girls 49-34. Parklands Arya stunned Jkuat Juja 48-38.
Ulinzi "Blades" cut Jkuat Juja 66-30 . Gladiators thumped Zetech College 63-33 while Parklands Arya whipped ANU 62-39.
GAMBIA : Basketball federation to host 3 Nation Tourney
Thursday, May 23, 2013
The Gambia Basket Associationisset to celebrate the Head of State’s 48th birthday anniversary through an international basketball tournament which is set to kick off today at the independence Stadium basketball court in Bakau at 19:00 hours.
Two basketball teams from the neighboring countries, Senegal and Mauritania will join the Gambia to celebrate the president’s birthday.
This was disclosed at a press briefing yesterday by the GBA Secretary General Abdoulie M.B. Jallow, who told reporters that this would be the first time that the newly selected Gambia Basketball national team will be showcased internationally.
He disclosed that Senegal and Mauritanian teams are due to arrive today in Banjul and will be lodged at the Paradise Suites Hotel in Kololi, fully sponsored by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
He further revealed that the tournament will commence today where the Gambia Basketball national team will clash with the Senegalese team at the Independence stadium at 19:00 hours.
He said on Friday, Senegal will played Mauritania at the same venue and time, adding that on Saturday, Gambia will play Mauritania making the final round of the game.
The best two teams will play the final on Sunday. He expressed optimism that the Gambia will win the final on Sunday.
He said the tournament is in collaboration with the ministry of youths and sports through the National Sports Council saying that they have been working these past few days to make sure that the tournament is properly organised.
He outlined that the Gambia is playing on the Birthday of the president which he said is most appropriate in organising the tournament and invites all basketball lovers to come and support the team.
The secretary went on to thank the government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the GNOC, Trust Bank and all others for their support.
Author: Adama K. Jallow
22 May 2013
UGANDA : City Oilers face struggling Nkumba
GAMBIA : YMCA Thump GAF in Basketball League
Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) Friday thumped Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) 66 points to 26, in the second round of the Gambian Basketball League. The game was played at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.
Speaking to Observer Sports after the game, the YMCA coach, Foday Singhateh, declared that his team were stronger than their opponents. He said: "If we win (by this margin) it means we are strong. If we were not strong, we wouldn't have won by such a points margin. The players are putting the pressure on me. It is hard work for me now. I have to pick and choose now who is going to play and which first five are going to start because whoever plays, they gave hundred percent, so that means that they are determined to play.
"No, we are not running with the league. It is not yet (at that stage) because we have three more big games to come. We have Wallidan, Brikama, Sport House and even Saints. They play very well against us." Earlier on in the female league, Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) defeated Serekunda West by 22 points to 10.
Speaking to Observer Sports after the game, the YMCA coach, Foday Singhateh, declared that his team were stronger than their opponents. He said: "If we win (by this margin) it means we are strong. If we were not strong, we wouldn't have won by such a points margin. The players are putting the pressure on me. It is hard work for me now. I have to pick and choose now who is going to play and which first five are going to start because whoever plays, they gave hundred percent, so that means that they are determined to play.
"No, we are not running with the league. It is not yet (at that stage) because we have three more big games to come. We have Wallidan, Brikama, Sport House and even Saints. They play very well against us." Earlier on in the female league, Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) defeated Serekunda West by 22 points to 10.
UGANDA : Enabu hungry for more success
Enabu has been in sparkling for in his debut season for newcomers City Oil. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
By Julius Senyimba
Airtel National Basketball League (YMCA)
Women: Gladiators v KIU Rangers 6:30pm
Men: City Oil v Vegetarians 8:30pm
AFTER City Oil’s 75-65 win against last year’s finalists and six times champions Falcons, point guard Jimmy Enabu believes his side has to look at it as a stepping stone to bigger things. The Oil boys last Friday.
“All we need is to dream big, the Falcons win was good but we have more games ahead and we have to win plenty of them. If we continue like this, we will put ourselves in the frame for the title,” explained Enabu.
City Oil return to action today in the second game of the day at YMCA, Wandegeya against follow promoted side Vegetarians. When the two teams met in Division One last year, City Oil reigned supreme and normal service expected to resume.
Enabu got a taste of the national championship with D’Mark Power and wants aims to win it with his current employers. He believes that creating a bond with new recruits Ramadhan Arou from Sudan and center Kami Kabange from Rwanda will be the catalyst.
“We are yet to play as a team but it is just a matter of training hard and playing more games together for us to understand each other better. Our team has good players and all we need to be one,” Enabu added.
Vegetarians are yet to register their first league win and it is difficult to imagine them getting anything out of this game.
Meanwhile, in the ladies encounter, powerhouses KIU Rangers will take on lowly Gladiators in the first game of the day.
Airtel National Basketball League (YMCA)
Women: Gladiators v KIU Rangers 6:30pm
Men: City Oil v Vegetarians 8:30pm
AFTER City Oil’s 75-65 win against last year’s finalists and six times champions Falcons, point guard Jimmy Enabu believes his side has to look at it as a stepping stone to bigger things. The Oil boys last Friday.
“All we need is to dream big, the Falcons win was good but we have more games ahead and we have to win plenty of them. If we continue like this, we will put ourselves in the frame for the title,” explained Enabu.
City Oil return to action today in the second game of the day at YMCA, Wandegeya against follow promoted side Vegetarians. When the two teams met in Division One last year, City Oil reigned supreme and normal service expected to resume.
Enabu got a taste of the national championship with D’Mark Power and wants aims to win it with his current employers. He believes that creating a bond with new recruits Ramadhan Arou from Sudan and center Kami Kabange from Rwanda will be the catalyst.
“We are yet to play as a team but it is just a matter of training hard and playing more games together for us to understand each other better. Our team has good players and all we need to be one,” Enabu added.
Vegetarians are yet to register their first league win and it is difficult to imagine them getting anything out of this game.
Meanwhile, in the ladies encounter, powerhouses KIU Rangers will take on lowly Gladiators in the first game of the day.
ANGOLA : 1º De Agosto Beat Libolo, Confirm Title
Luanda — 1º de Agosto's senior males basketball team last Tuesday here beat Recreativo do Libolo by 101-93, in a game that closed this year's edition of the National Basketball Championship (Bai-Basket2013) and that was played in Rio Seco Pavilion.
1º de Agosto, who before this match were already the early winners of the championship, totalled 22 points, followed by Recreativo do Libolo (defending champions) with 18 points, then Petro de Luanda (17) and Interclube (16).
In a different game of the final stage's last round , Petro de Luanda beat Interclube by 110-100, thus occupying the third place.
1º de Agosto, who before this match were already the early winners of the championship, totalled 22 points, followed by Recreativo do Libolo (defending champions) with 18 points, then Petro de Luanda (17) and Interclube (16).
In a different game of the final stage's last round , Petro de Luanda beat Interclube by 110-100, thus occupying the third place.
21 May 2013
KENYA : Eagle Wings’ Samba Mjomba out for a month
Updated on 20/05/13 | By TIMOTHY OLOBULU
National Women’s Basketball League defending Champions Eagle Wings will be forced to do without their dependable point guard Samba Mjomba for a month after she injured her knee in training last week.
“I was told by the doctor I will be out for a month. It is the same knee I injured last year while with the national team preparing for the Zone 5 games. I am already on physiotherapy sessions which I have to attend thrice a week,” Mjomba told Michezoafrika.com.
She missed her team’s last match against students Strathmore University and it was evident that her absence was felt as the team went down 48-26 in what will be their first loss of the season.
“It was painful to watch the team lose and you can’t do anything about it. I hate losing but I know that the team will recover. It is good that we have noted our mistakes quite early in the season and I trust that we will correct in time,” adds the 2011 season Most valuable player.
“I was told by the doctor I will be out for a month. It is the same knee I injured last year while with the national team preparing for the Zone 5 games. I am already on physiotherapy sessions which I have to attend thrice a week,” Mjomba told Michezoafrika.com.
She missed her team’s last match against students Strathmore University and it was evident that her absence was felt as the team went down 48-26 in what will be their first loss of the season.
“It was painful to watch the team lose and you can’t do anything about it. I hate losing but I know that the team will recover. It is good that we have noted our mistakes quite early in the season and I trust that we will correct in time,” adds the 2011 season Most valuable player.
Gambia: Basketball Coaching Course Ends
A 10-day basketball level one coaching course organised by the Gambia Basketball Association (GBA) in collaboration with the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), Olympic Solidarity and the International Basketball Federation, wrapped-up at the Bamboo Hotel in Kololi at the weekend.
The course, which was meant to capacitate basketball coaches in the country, was attended by the National Basketball League coaches, the Regional Sports Coordinators, Primary School Sports Association, Secondary School Sports Association, the Paralympics Sports Association, the Combined Services coaches and the Sports Journalists Association. The course was directed by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) accredited expert Ronald Onyango Owino from Kenya.
Addressing the participants, the president of the GNOC, Alhaji Momodou Dibba, said the course entails three components, namely; the achievement, determination and the building of self-confidence. He challenged the Basketball Association to look into the issue of women participation in basketball, assuring that the GNOC is ready to give them their support.
He told the GBA officials that their doors are open to sponsor the Level 2 coaching course because capacity building is a key component of the Olympic movement. "If you want to be in the basketball arena, you need to build a legacy, if you want to be successful, don't be shy, ask if you don't know and in whatever you do make sure there is that element of discipline. Don't allow this certificate to gather dust," Dibba told the certified coaches. He also thanked the course director for accepting to come to Gambia to help in building the game of basketball.
The deputy permanent secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Malang Jasseh, challenged the participants to be committed to the cause, work together and build a network that will give chance to talented players from the regional teams to move to bigger teams in the urban area.
Speaking earlier, the course coordinator, Momodou Demba, revealed that the certificate presented to the participants will be recognised everywhere in the world. He told the coaches that they have now graduated from one level to another and the future remains entirely in their own hands as far as Levels 2 and 3 are concerned.
For his part, the president of the Gambia Basketball Association, Muhammed Papa Njie, said he was impressed with the comportment of the participants. He challenged them to put in practice what they have learnt. "If you do not have a club, please start it now by putting some young people together and try to transmit to them what you have acquired during the past ten days," he urged, while also advising the regional participants to be sending them their annual programmes. The GBA boss also called on the four women that attended the course to start doing something right way.
The FIBA Instructor from Kenya, Ronald Onyango Owino, said he was pleased with the cooperation shown by the participants. He also called on the ladies to take up basketball coaching, as FIBA is paying a special attention to female coaches.
The course, which was meant to capacitate basketball coaches in the country, was attended by the National Basketball League coaches, the Regional Sports Coordinators, Primary School Sports Association, Secondary School Sports Association, the Paralympics Sports Association, the Combined Services coaches and the Sports Journalists Association. The course was directed by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) accredited expert Ronald Onyango Owino from Kenya.
Addressing the participants, the president of the GNOC, Alhaji Momodou Dibba, said the course entails three components, namely; the achievement, determination and the building of self-confidence. He challenged the Basketball Association to look into the issue of women participation in basketball, assuring that the GNOC is ready to give them their support.
He told the GBA officials that their doors are open to sponsor the Level 2 coaching course because capacity building is a key component of the Olympic movement. "If you want to be in the basketball arena, you need to build a legacy, if you want to be successful, don't be shy, ask if you don't know and in whatever you do make sure there is that element of discipline. Don't allow this certificate to gather dust," Dibba told the certified coaches. He also thanked the course director for accepting to come to Gambia to help in building the game of basketball.
The deputy permanent secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Malang Jasseh, challenged the participants to be committed to the cause, work together and build a network that will give chance to talented players from the regional teams to move to bigger teams in the urban area.
Speaking earlier, the course coordinator, Momodou Demba, revealed that the certificate presented to the participants will be recognised everywhere in the world. He told the coaches that they have now graduated from one level to another and the future remains entirely in their own hands as far as Levels 2 and 3 are concerned.
For his part, the president of the Gambia Basketball Association, Muhammed Papa Njie, said he was impressed with the comportment of the participants. He challenged them to put in practice what they have learnt. "If you do not have a club, please start it now by putting some young people together and try to transmit to them what you have acquired during the past ten days," he urged, while also advising the regional participants to be sending them their annual programmes. The GBA boss also called on the four women that attended the course to start doing something right way.
The FIBA Instructor from Kenya, Ronald Onyango Owino, said he was pleased with the cooperation shown by the participants. He also called on the ladies to take up basketball coaching, as FIBA is paying a special attention to female coaches.
SEYCHELLES : Adam leaves early but Baya win
Heat stay unbeaten before Hawks clash
Baya lost centre Timmy Adam early in the first quarter, but Alex Baron and the rest of the team did not let his absence bother them as they powered to a 75-60 win, inflicting a third defeat on Mont Fleuri Dawgz so early in the season.
The men’s division one championship is really getting interesting; probably the most interesting it has been in many years. And on Saturday, the big crowd at Victoria Gymnasium got their money’s worth as Baya and Mont Fleuri Dawgz brought the ‘game’ to the basketball garden.
After Adam was taken off the court by teammates after spraining his right ankle, he was not there to exhort his team to play hard as he was transported to the English River health centre. But his teammates read the defence and took advantage of any openings they found against the Dawgz.
As coach Michel Malbrook diagrammed plays, Baron filled the void left by Adam, dominating the offensive and defensive boards and also finishing with a game-leading 22 points.
Steve Denis banked four treys for 13 of his 20 points, while captain Dave Roseline added 15 as Baya’s starters scored 67 of their team’s 75 points.
After winning the first quarter 20-13, Baya lost the second 18-21 but still went for the break with a four-point – 38-34 – advantage.
The two teams tied each other 14-14 in the third quarter before Baya stepped on the accelerator to pull away from the Dawgz as they won the fourth quarter 23-12 for a big 75-60 win.
“We’re playing good basketball,” skipper Roseline told Sports Nation.
“We needed to win and we played as a team. We will be all out in the remaining matches,” added Roseline whose team are second in the nine-team standings with nine points after four wins and a loss.
Steven André was the Dawgz’ top scorer with 15 points, while young and talented Kevin Romain finished with 14 –the same total as swingman Cyril Agrippine who fouled out after coming off the bench.
The defeat was the third in six games for the Dawgz coached by Nigel Ah-kong and they have to start getting their strategy right if they want to stay in the title hunt.
Also Saturday, Beau Vallon Heat extended their win run to five games with an 80-59 victory against Angels and they are the only unbeaten side in the championship with a maximum 10 points to lead the standings.
With their next opponents PLS Hawks watching from the stands, Beau Vallon turned up the heat on Angels as they won the first three quarters 21-17, 22-5 and 26-18.
Although they lost the fourth 11-19, it did not have much impact as they had three players scoring in double figures – Jean-Paul ‘JP’ Camille with 27 points, centre Robert Léon with 25 and Christopher ‘To’ Camille with 12.
Heat’s starters outscored those of Angels 63-39 and it remains to be seen if they can produce the same result this coming Saturday against PLS Hawks who are still licking their wounds from a first defeat in two years on a 73-82 score at the hands of Baya.
Before that, the Hawks will be in action tomorrow when they take on RC Dynamics in a match scheduled for last Saturday but was postponed due to rain which rendered the Victoria Gymnasium court slippery.
Also on Sunday, the match between MBU Rockers and Drifters had to be stopped with six minutes left in the fourth quarter and the Rockers leading 67-58.
Meanwhile, in the men’s second division league, Praslin Warriors collected two weekends during the weekend – 59-50 against Anse Etoile and 62-59 against Wolf – to go third on the seven-team table with nine points (four wins and a loss).
Cascade Bullets, who lost their top flight status at the end of last season, are leading the chase with 10 points after five wins in as many games and Razors are also on 10 points but have played six games – winning four and losing two.
G. G.
Baya lost centre Timmy Adam early in the first quarter, but Alex Baron and the rest of the team did not let his absence bother them as they powered to a 75-60 win, inflicting a third defeat on Mont Fleuri Dawgz so early in the season.
The men’s division one championship is really getting interesting; probably the most interesting it has been in many years. And on Saturday, the big crowd at Victoria Gymnasium got their money’s worth as Baya and Mont Fleuri Dawgz brought the ‘game’ to the basketball garden.
After Adam was taken off the court by teammates after spraining his right ankle, he was not there to exhort his team to play hard as he was transported to the English River health centre. But his teammates read the defence and took advantage of any openings they found against the Dawgz.
As coach Michel Malbrook diagrammed plays, Baron filled the void left by Adam, dominating the offensive and defensive boards and also finishing with a game-leading 22 points.
Steve Denis banked four treys for 13 of his 20 points, while captain Dave Roseline added 15 as Baya’s starters scored 67 of their team’s 75 points.
After winning the first quarter 20-13, Baya lost the second 18-21 but still went for the break with a four-point – 38-34 – advantage.
The two teams tied each other 14-14 in the third quarter before Baya stepped on the accelerator to pull away from the Dawgz as they won the fourth quarter 23-12 for a big 75-60 win.
“We’re playing good basketball,” skipper Roseline told Sports Nation.
“We needed to win and we played as a team. We will be all out in the remaining matches,” added Roseline whose team are second in the nine-team standings with nine points after four wins and a loss.
Steven André was the Dawgz’ top scorer with 15 points, while young and talented Kevin Romain finished with 14 –the same total as swingman Cyril Agrippine who fouled out after coming off the bench.
The defeat was the third in six games for the Dawgz coached by Nigel Ah-kong and they have to start getting their strategy right if they want to stay in the title hunt.
Also Saturday, Beau Vallon Heat extended their win run to five games with an 80-59 victory against Angels and they are the only unbeaten side in the championship with a maximum 10 points to lead the standings.
With their next opponents PLS Hawks watching from the stands, Beau Vallon turned up the heat on Angels as they won the first three quarters 21-17, 22-5 and 26-18.
Although they lost the fourth 11-19, it did not have much impact as they had three players scoring in double figures – Jean-Paul ‘JP’ Camille with 27 points, centre Robert Léon with 25 and Christopher ‘To’ Camille with 12.
Heat’s starters outscored those of Angels 63-39 and it remains to be seen if they can produce the same result this coming Saturday against PLS Hawks who are still licking their wounds from a first defeat in two years on a 73-82 score at the hands of Baya.
Before that, the Hawks will be in action tomorrow when they take on RC Dynamics in a match scheduled for last Saturday but was postponed due to rain which rendered the Victoria Gymnasium court slippery.
Also on Sunday, the match between MBU Rockers and Drifters had to be stopped with six minutes left in the fourth quarter and the Rockers leading 67-58.
Meanwhile, in the men’s second division league, Praslin Warriors collected two weekends during the weekend – 59-50 against Anse Etoile and 62-59 against Wolf – to go third on the seven-team table with nine points (four wins and a loss).
Cascade Bullets, who lost their top flight status at the end of last season, are leading the chase with 10 points after five wins in as many games and Razors are also on 10 points but have played six games – winning four and losing two.
G. G.
20 May 2013
KENYA : USIU-A Start Strongly In Varsities League
Defending champions United States International University- Africa, USIU-A, began their title defense in the men and ladies categories strongly winning the opening matches of the Zuku Universities Basketball League that kicked off over the weekend in Nairobi.
USIU Flames, the ladies side, were 84-30 winners over Dynamites from the University of Nairobi while their male counterparts, USIU Tigers, beat Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, MMUST, 81-54.
Captain Hilda Indasi led the Flames from the front scoring 22 points as Emma Nyakweba, signed from Co-op Bank, added 13. Marsha Owiti top scored for Dynamites with 9 points.
Flames led 28-20 at halftime setting a firm foundation for their victory. They won all the quarters 12-9, 16-11, 29-6 and 27-4.
MMUST suffered a major setback after going down to Tigers in the opening match which was billed as a battle of titans.
The Kakamega based side withdrew from the Kenya Basketball Federation league last month to concentrate on the universities league.
Tigers shine
Tigers, fielding most of their newly signed players, overpowered MMUST in the first quarter to win 16-10 while the second settled at a 13-13 tie. USIU went to the breather enjoying a slender 29-23 lead.
The second half proved to be the hardest for MMUST as they lost by big scores. Tigers sealed their win with 22-13 and 30-18 wins in the third and fourth quarters respectively.
Jamal Mustafa and Denis Shamala had 18 and 12 points for Tigers while Alex Lugasi was MMUST top scorer with a game high of 33.
Basil Ogembo’s 17 points could not help the visiting Maseno University into victory as they succumbed to a 74-59 loss to Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, JKUAT.
The winners led 39-19 at halftime. Guyton Kijuba scored 16 points for JKUAT with Richard Adega adding 13.
The match was evenly contested as JKUAT won two quarters, one ended in a draw with Maseno carrying home one. The first two went to JKUAT 17-10 and 22-9 to cap their dominance in the first half.
The third quarter ended with a 17-17 stalemate before Maseno redeemed themselves with the fourth winning 23-18.
USIU Flames, the ladies side, were 84-30 winners over Dynamites from the University of Nairobi while their male counterparts, USIU Tigers, beat Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, MMUST, 81-54.
Captain Hilda Indasi led the Flames from the front scoring 22 points as Emma Nyakweba, signed from Co-op Bank, added 13. Marsha Owiti top scored for Dynamites with 9 points.
Flames led 28-20 at halftime setting a firm foundation for their victory. They won all the quarters 12-9, 16-11, 29-6 and 27-4.
MMUST suffered a major setback after going down to Tigers in the opening match which was billed as a battle of titans.
The Kakamega based side withdrew from the Kenya Basketball Federation league last month to concentrate on the universities league.
Tigers shine
Tigers, fielding most of their newly signed players, overpowered MMUST in the first quarter to win 16-10 while the second settled at a 13-13 tie. USIU went to the breather enjoying a slender 29-23 lead.
The second half proved to be the hardest for MMUST as they lost by big scores. Tigers sealed their win with 22-13 and 30-18 wins in the third and fourth quarters respectively.
Jamal Mustafa and Denis Shamala had 18 and 12 points for Tigers while Alex Lugasi was MMUST top scorer with a game high of 33.
Basil Ogembo’s 17 points could not help the visiting Maseno University into victory as they succumbed to a 74-59 loss to Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, JKUAT.
The winners led 39-19 at halftime. Guyton Kijuba scored 16 points for JKUAT with Richard Adega adding 13.
The match was evenly contested as JKUAT won two quarters, one ended in a draw with Maseno carrying home one. The first two went to JKUAT 17-10 and 22-9 to cap their dominance in the first half.
The third quarter ended with a 17-17 stalemate before Maseno redeemed themselves with the fourth winning 23-18.
