31 January 2015
KENYA : Women's premier league reaches climax
After a prolonged wait, the Kenya
Basketball Federation women premier league champions for the 2014 season
will be known this weekend.
Defending champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) will be battling for the honours at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.
USIU-A won game one 56-49 while KPA leveled the series with a 72-59 win in game two which were all played in Mombasa last weekend.
Games three and four on Saturday and Sunday respectively are very critical and could decide the new champion without necessitating a game five. Sarah Chan (USIU-A) and Yvonne Akinyi (KPA) will be the key players to watch on the court.
Co-operative Bank and Sprite Storms will play in the third-place decider on Sunday afternoon.
Meanwhile, the 2015 national classic league season is slated to get underway on March 14 with a proposal to change the league format into conferences.
Team managers from all teams have been summoned for a pre-season meeting on February 7 at Nyayo Stadium. At the meeting, ratification or rejection of the new league format will be top on the agenda.
If they adopt the proposal, both men and women premier leagues as well as division one will have two conferences each namely Eastern and Western. There was a similar proposal prior to the 2014 season but it never came to fruition.
The federation has also lined up two major pre-season tournaments that will help teams keep in shape. On February 21-22, there will be the pre-season playoffs at Nyayo Stadium and Railways Club while Nyayo and Kasarani gymnasium will play host to the All Stars Weekend on March 5-7.
Women Playoffs Final Fixtures
Saturday: USIU-A vs KPA (Nyayo gymnasium, 4pm); Sunday- Co-op Bank vs Sprite Storms (2pm), USIU-A vs KPA (4pm).
KBF 2015 Calendar of Events
Team Managers Meeting (February 7, Nyayo Stadium), Pre-season Playoffs (February 21-22, Nyayo/Railways), All Stars Weekend (March 5-7, Kasarani/Nyayo), League Commencement (March 14), Labour Day Tournament (May 2-3, Nakuru), Inter-cities (May 27-31, Tanzania), Madaraka Day Tournament (June 6-7, Kakamega), KECOSO Games (August), Inter-banks (September, Nairobi), Mashujaa Day Tournament (October 17-18, Kisumu), Jamhuri Day Tournament (December 12-13, Mombasa).
Defending champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) will be battling for the honours at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.
USIU-A won game one 56-49 while KPA leveled the series with a 72-59 win in game two which were all played in Mombasa last weekend.
Games three and four on Saturday and Sunday respectively are very critical and could decide the new champion without necessitating a game five. Sarah Chan (USIU-A) and Yvonne Akinyi (KPA) will be the key players to watch on the court.
Co-operative Bank and Sprite Storms will play in the third-place decider on Sunday afternoon.
Meanwhile, the 2015 national classic league season is slated to get underway on March 14 with a proposal to change the league format into conferences.
Team managers from all teams have been summoned for a pre-season meeting on February 7 at Nyayo Stadium. At the meeting, ratification or rejection of the new league format will be top on the agenda.
If they adopt the proposal, both men and women premier leagues as well as division one will have two conferences each namely Eastern and Western. There was a similar proposal prior to the 2014 season but it never came to fruition.
The federation has also lined up two major pre-season tournaments that will help teams keep in shape. On February 21-22, there will be the pre-season playoffs at Nyayo Stadium and Railways Club while Nyayo and Kasarani gymnasium will play host to the All Stars Weekend on March 5-7.
Women Playoffs Final Fixtures
Saturday: USIU-A vs KPA (Nyayo gymnasium, 4pm); Sunday- Co-op Bank vs Sprite Storms (2pm), USIU-A vs KPA (4pm).
KBF 2015 Calendar of Events
Team Managers Meeting (February 7, Nyayo Stadium), Pre-season Playoffs (February 21-22, Nyayo/Railways), All Stars Weekend (March 5-7, Kasarani/Nyayo), League Commencement (March 14), Labour Day Tournament (May 2-3, Nakuru), Inter-cities (May 27-31, Tanzania), Madaraka Day Tournament (June 6-7, Kakamega), KECOSO Games (August), Inter-banks (September, Nairobi), Mashujaa Day Tournament (October 17-18, Kisumu), Jamhuri Day Tournament (December 12-13, Mombasa).
30 January 2015
GHANA : Braves to fly to Benin to defend trophy Feb 6
The basketball team of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Braves, will leave Accra Thursday, next week, to participate in the West Africa top eight basketball competition in Benin.
The three-day competition, which comes on the heels of a recently-orgnaised hockey tournament in Angola, which saw the GRA team winning bronze, will attract teams from Togo, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, Liberia and Benin.
The Sports Director of the GRA, Mr Benjamin Baafi, said Braves, who have remained unbeaten for 14 years, won silver at the last edition of the competition and were well psyched up to win gold this time around.
Mr Baafi was happy with the commitment of the players of the GRA, majority of whose appointments, he said, were yet to be regularised, and appealed to the leadership of the authority to initiate measures to employ those players.
That, Mr Baafi said, would serve as motivation for the players to remain committed to the cause of the organisation.
According to him, even after playing for almost a decade without being engaged as full employees, majority of the players continued to put in their best to project the image of the organisation.
Mr Baafi, however, expressed appreciation to the leadership of CEPS in particular and GRA as a whole for their support and immense contribution to the respective teams and gave an assurance that they would continue to work hard to bring honours and also to grow the image of the organisation.
UGANDA : Lamunnu makes bow as FNL enters season five
Stars Henry Malinga and Claire Lamunnu share a joke at the launch of this year’s Friday Night Lights. PhOto by JB Ssenkubuge
KAMPALA- After her exploits in the 2015 season,
it was perhaps prudent enough to have Claire Lamunnu as one of the
captains for the fifth season of Friday Nights Lights (FNL) that tips
off this evening at YMCA.
Lamunnu who helped the Gazelles win the Zone V
championships as well as guiding KCCA Leopards to the league title will
make her bow along nine other captains at the fun filled tournament
increased to 10 teams.
In one of eight games on card, a game between Team
Blick and the Legends’ team will get action underway at the eight week
Castle Lite sponsored tournament.
Lamunnu, the other ladies captain besides Maureen
Amoding will thereafter lead her side against team Koma while Team
Ikong winners of three of the first four seasons play the last game on
the night against Team Duxx.
Apart from more fun games, the winners’ cash prize
has now increased from Shs3 to Shs5m for the overall winners with the
second placed team getting Shs 3 million.
28 January 2015
NIGERIA : Africare Begins Second 300 Grassroots Basketball Talent Hunt
By Ezeocha Nzeh
Abuja — IN its efforts to move Nigeria's basketball to a world class level, one of the partners of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Africare, has commenced its preparations for the second edition of its talent hunt with the presentation of awards to coaches and schools that excelled in the first edition.
The talent hunt, which was introduced in November 2013 by Africare in partnership with oil producing company, Exxon Mobil, with 10 secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is aimed at producing over 300 basketball players from the various secondary schools in the country.
Speaking at the occasion, held at Divine Mercy Schools, Asokoro in Abuja, Africare Country Director for Nigeria, Orode Doherty, noted that the Power Forward project is currently being implemented in 10 secondary schools in Abuja, adding that the project will benefit 300 students in the broader community.
According to the director, "drawing on an innovative curriculum, the programme will use basketball as a vehicle to convene and teach youths essential public health knowledge, as well as improve literacy around development issues and other essential life skills to thrive in life and business. Power Forward provides refurbishment support to basketball infrastructure to all the school, basketball supplies and train life skill coaches."
In his reaction, the president of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Tijani Umar, thanked Africare and Power Forward for their contributions to the development of basketball at the grassroots, adding that the programme will help to resuscitate the age group competitions in the game as well as sustain the national teams.
Two coaches, Glory Ominu of the Customs team and Geoffrey Bottson of Government Secondary School, Garki, were rewarded as best coaches of the first edition, while Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3 and Divine Mercy School Asokoro were honoured as best teams.
Abuja — IN its efforts to move Nigeria's basketball to a world class level, one of the partners of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Africare, has commenced its preparations for the second edition of its talent hunt with the presentation of awards to coaches and schools that excelled in the first edition.
The talent hunt, which was introduced in November 2013 by Africare in partnership with oil producing company, Exxon Mobil, with 10 secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is aimed at producing over 300 basketball players from the various secondary schools in the country.
Speaking at the occasion, held at Divine Mercy Schools, Asokoro in Abuja, Africare Country Director for Nigeria, Orode Doherty, noted that the Power Forward project is currently being implemented in 10 secondary schools in Abuja, adding that the project will benefit 300 students in the broader community.
According to the director, "drawing on an innovative curriculum, the programme will use basketball as a vehicle to convene and teach youths essential public health knowledge, as well as improve literacy around development issues and other essential life skills to thrive in life and business. Power Forward provides refurbishment support to basketball infrastructure to all the school, basketball supplies and train life skill coaches."
In his reaction, the president of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Tijani Umar, thanked Africare and Power Forward for their contributions to the development of basketball at the grassroots, adding that the programme will help to resuscitate the age group competitions in the game as well as sustain the national teams.
Two coaches, Glory Ominu of the Customs team and Geoffrey Bottson of Government Secondary School, Garki, were rewarded as best coaches of the first edition, while Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3 and Divine Mercy School Asokoro were honoured as best teams.
27 January 2015
RWANDA : Giants continue good run in Heroes Day tournament
Selected results
Sunday
Men
Espoir 66-56 Patriots
APR 79-60 IPRC-South
CSK 93-52 UR- CASS
UGB 64-55 SEEFAR
Women
UR- CASS 42-31 IPRC- South
RAPP 82-9 Agahozo
Saturday
Men
KBC 32-102 IPRC-South
IPRC- Kigali 63-58 SEEFAR
Women
Ubumwe 60-30 Patriots
APR 84-16 Agahozo
League champions Espoir, APR and last season’s first runners-up Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) all grabbed second victories in the Heroes Day basketball tournament on Sunday to keep their hopes for the first trophy of the year alive.
Espoir beat Patriots 66-56, APR collected their second victory in the
79-60 win over new league entrants IPRC- South, while Rugunga-based CSK
thrashed University of Rwanda’s College of Arts and Social Sciences
(UR- Cass) 93-52 – all the games were played at Amahoro indoor stadium
in Remera.
On Sunday, United Generation Basketball club (UGB) beat Seefar 64-55 in the men’s category while UR-Cass defeated IPRC- South 42-31, WHILE Rwanda Allied Peace for Progress overcame Agahozo Shalom 82-9 in the women’s category.
Speaking to Times Sport on Monday, IPRC-South basketball team head coach Didier Bineza said: “The victory over KBC boosted our confidence and motivation ahead of the league start.”
The inaugural national Heroes Day tournament started on Friday and will run until February 1, the national Heroes Day.
Sunday
Men
Espoir 66-56 Patriots
APR 79-60 IPRC-South
CSK 93-52 UR- CASS
UGB 64-55 SEEFAR
Women
UR- CASS 42-31 IPRC- South
RAPP 82-9 Agahozo
Saturday
Men
KBC 32-102 IPRC-South
IPRC- Kigali 63-58 SEEFAR
Women
Ubumwe 60-30 Patriots
APR 84-16 Agahozo
League champions Espoir, APR and last season’s first runners-up Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) all grabbed second victories in the Heroes Day basketball tournament on Sunday to keep their hopes for the first trophy of the year alive.
Pascal Karekezi
On Sunday, United Generation Basketball club (UGB) beat Seefar 64-55 in the men’s category while UR-Cass defeated IPRC- South 42-31, WHILE Rwanda Allied Peace for Progress overcame Agahozo Shalom 82-9 in the women’s category.
Speaking to Times Sport on Monday, IPRC-South basketball team head coach Didier Bineza said: “The victory over KBC boosted our confidence and motivation ahead of the league start.”
The inaugural national Heroes Day tournament started on Friday and will run until February 1, the national Heroes Day.
26 January 2015
ANGOLA : 1º De Agosto Crowned New Champions
Benguela — 1º de Agosto were crowned new national cadet men's
basketball champions, after beating in Petro de Luanda by 61-54, in the
final played at Acácias Rubras arena, outskirts of Benguela city.
In the first half, 1º de Agosto were already winning the game by 37-12.
Petro's point guard Erice Amândio was the best scorer of the match with 23 points.
Check the final standings:
1. 1º de Agosto
2. Petro de Luanda
3. Sporting de Benguela
4. Atlético Sport Aviação
5. G.D. Banca
6. Casa do Pessoal do Porto do Lobito
7. 1º de Maio de Benguela
In the first half, 1º de Agosto were already winning the game by 37-12.
Petro's point guard Erice Amândio was the best scorer of the match with 23 points.
Check the final standings:
1. 1º de Agosto
2. Petro de Luanda
3. Sporting de Benguela
4. Atlético Sport Aviação
5. G.D. Banca
6. Casa do Pessoal do Porto do Lobito
7. 1º de Maio de Benguela
KENYA : It's all square between KPA,USIU-A Flames as playoffs head to Nyayo
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and United States
International University- Africa (USIU-A) are deadlocked at one game
each in the Kenya Basketball Federation women premier league playoffs
final.
Both teams faced off at the Makande Gymnasium in Mombasa over the weekend for the first of the two games in the best-of-five series.
In Mombasa, KPA were expected to use the home advantage but were beaten in the first game and bounced back to win the second to set up what could be a thriller in the next games.
The shoe is on the other foot as KPA travel to Nairobi to face USIU-A Flames. But just like in Mombasa, the homeground advantage could amount to nothing because it was at the same Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium that KPA overwhelmed the students last season to clinch the title.
USIU-A shed off fatigue from their long journey to Mombasa and won game one 56-49 on Saturday. So competitive was the game that both teams tied 26-all at the breather.
USIU-A won the third quarter
The students won first quarter 14-11 and KPA the second 15-12 as Sarah Chan (USIU-A) and Yvonne Akinyi (KPA) scored 10 points apiece. USIU-A dominated the second half winning third quarter 18-14 and the fourth 12-9.
Chan and Angela Okoth scored highest for USIU-A with 16 points each while Hilda Indasi added 11. Akinyi had a game high 22 points for KPA.
The dockers came out fighting in game two on Sunday and won 72-59 after leading by 10 points at halftime.
The first half was a KPA affair as they won 16-8 and 20-18 in the opening quarters to lead 36-26 at halftime.
They picked up from where they left winning third quarter 24-17 before USIU-A won the consolation fourth 16-12.
Yvonne Akinyi was again the leading scorer for KPA with 23 points and Helen Oketch added 16. Hilda Indasi scored a game high 26 points for USIU-A while Sarah Chan had 14 points.
The series now shifts to Nairobi this weekend with games three and four at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Friday and Saturday from 4pm.
Both teams faced off at the Makande Gymnasium in Mombasa over the weekend for the first of the two games in the best-of-five series.
In Mombasa, KPA were expected to use the home advantage but were beaten in the first game and bounced back to win the second to set up what could be a thriller in the next games.
The shoe is on the other foot as KPA travel to Nairobi to face USIU-A Flames. But just like in Mombasa, the homeground advantage could amount to nothing because it was at the same Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium that KPA overwhelmed the students last season to clinch the title.
USIU-A shed off fatigue from their long journey to Mombasa and won game one 56-49 on Saturday. So competitive was the game that both teams tied 26-all at the breather.
USIU-A won the third quarter
The students won first quarter 14-11 and KPA the second 15-12 as Sarah Chan (USIU-A) and Yvonne Akinyi (KPA) scored 10 points apiece. USIU-A dominated the second half winning third quarter 18-14 and the fourth 12-9.
Chan and Angela Okoth scored highest for USIU-A with 16 points each while Hilda Indasi added 11. Akinyi had a game high 22 points for KPA.
The dockers came out fighting in game two on Sunday and won 72-59 after leading by 10 points at halftime.
The first half was a KPA affair as they won 16-8 and 20-18 in the opening quarters to lead 36-26 at halftime.
They picked up from where they left winning third quarter 24-17 before USIU-A won the consolation fourth 16-12.
Yvonne Akinyi was again the leading scorer for KPA with 23 points and Helen Oketch added 16. Hilda Indasi scored a game high 26 points for USIU-A while Sarah Chan had 14 points.
The series now shifts to Nairobi this weekend with games three and four at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Friday and Saturday from 4pm.
25 January 2015
RWANDA : Espoir, APR start Heroes Day basketball tourney with wins
Today
Men
Espoir vs Patriots 11am
CSK vs UR-CASS 1pm
APR vs IPRC- South 3pm
SEEFAR vs UGB
Women
UR- CASS vs IPRC- South 11am
RAPP vs Agahozo 1pm
Friday
CSK 71-41 UR-CoE
APR 91-41 KBC
Espoir 76-22 30-Plus
The inaugural national Heroes Day basketball tournament kicked-off on Friday at Amahoro indoor stadium and will run until February 1.
Three games in men’s category were played on Friday where Cercle Sportif de Kigali won 71-41 over University of Rwanda’s- college of Education (UR-CoE), APR beat KBC 91-41 while league champions Espoir thrashed 30-Plus 76-22.
On Saturday, a total six games were played but the results were not yet known by press time.
The competition, which is being used a pre-season tournament, is organized by the Rwanda Basketball Federation (Ferwaba) to pay tribute to the country’s Heroes.
This year’s Heroes Day theme is “Ubutwari bw’Abanyarwanda, Agaciro Kacu” which loosely means ‘Rwandans’ Heroism, Our Dignity’.
All 26 games of the 10-day tournament will be played at Amahoro indoor stadium and National Paralympic Committee gymnasium.
Men
Espoir vs Patriots 11am
CSK vs UR-CASS 1pm
APR vs IPRC- South 3pm
SEEFAR vs UGB
Women
UR- CASS vs IPRC- South 11am
RAPP vs Agahozo 1pm
Friday
CSK 71-41 UR-CoE
APR 91-41 KBC
Espoir 76-22 30-Plus
The inaugural national Heroes Day basketball tournament kicked-off on Friday at Amahoro indoor stadium and will run until February 1.
Three games in men’s category were played on Friday where Cercle Sportif de Kigali won 71-41 over University of Rwanda’s- college of Education (UR-CoE), APR beat KBC 91-41 while league champions Espoir thrashed 30-Plus 76-22.
On Saturday, a total six games were played but the results were not yet known by press time.
The competition, which is being used a pre-season tournament, is organized by the Rwanda Basketball Federation (Ferwaba) to pay tribute to the country’s Heroes.
This year’s Heroes Day theme is “Ubutwari bw’Abanyarwanda, Agaciro Kacu” which loosely means ‘Rwandans’ Heroism, Our Dignity’.
All 26 games of the 10-day tournament will be played at Amahoro indoor stadium and National Paralympic Committee gymnasium.
24 January 2015
BOTSWANA : Botswana in tough draw against Swaziland, Mozambique in Afro Basket qualifiers
In an interview with Gazette Sport, national team coach Trynos Moyo said they will not be cowed by the fact that Mozambique players are professionals while Botswana players are amateurs. The Mozambique basketball league is fully professional and its national team has competed in 12 Afro Basket championships. In comparison, Botswana has not competed in any Afro Basket championship as the team has always been eliminated in the qualifiers. Though the odds are stacked against his team, Moyo remains unfazed as he believes Botswana can overcome the fully professional and more experienced Mozambicans.
“Mozambique will be a very strong opposition to us, but we are going to fight,” he said.
Still in Pool B, Botswana will face tough competition from Swaziland whose players ply their trade in the South African professional league. The only professional player in team Botswana is Karabo Geche who plays and studies in China. The return leg of the game between Botswana and Mozambique will be played in Gaborone on the second weekend. Between Botswana, Mozambique and Swaziland, the team that tops Pool B will qualify for the Afro Basket finals, slated for Tunisia in July. Moyo works with Troopers coach William Nyangu in team Botswana’s coaching department. Nyangu won the local basketball league title last season while Moyo was runner up.
The two coaches will have a tough time selecting the best 12 out of 23 players who have been called up for training. They explained that players will be selected strictly on merit, adding that they will use a rotational method to select the best performing team. BBA has given the two coaches strict instructions to rebuild the national team, which could explain the inclusion of many youngsters and exclusion of the old brigade. The coaches explained that BBA has a four year plan to build a strong national team. Veterans Ratanang Tsayang of Troopers and Mothusi Thipe of Spartans have retired from the national team and will be replaced by young blood.
23 January 2015
ANGOLA : Petro De Luanda Beat Libolo
Luanda — Petro de Luanda defeated on Friday Recreativo do Libolo by
91-100, in the conclusion of one more round of the National Senior Men?s
Basketball Championship (BIB Basket) at Luanda?s Dream Space arena.
Petro de Luanda's power forward Leonel Paulo was the best scorer of the match with 23 points.
With this result, Petro de Luanda lead the competition with 19 points, while Libolo remain at the bottom of the table with 11 points.
Petro de Luanda's power forward Leonel Paulo was the best scorer of the match with 23 points.
With this result, Petro de Luanda lead the competition with 19 points, while Libolo remain at the bottom of the table with 11 points.
RWANDA : IOC Gives Ferwaba Rwf14.7 Million for Talent Detection
By Peter Kamasa
Rwanda Basketball Federation has received a financial boost worth US$21, 000 (about Rfw14.m) from the International Olympic Committee for the development of the sport from the grassroots.
According to Ferwaba officials, the programme will start from January 19 to June 15.
The whole project requires about US$32,000, (about Rwf22.5m), which leaves Ferwaba with a deficit of US$11,000 (approximately Rwf7.7m).
The financial boost has been offered by the Olympic Solidarity through the Rwanda National Olympic Committee following a successful proposal made by the local basketball body last year.
The money will also help to organise training clinics for local coaches, who will be involved in handling the beneficially Under-16 youngsters in different schools around the country.
The secondary schools that will benefit from the project include; Lycée de Kigali, College Saint André (Kigali), IFAK Kimihurura, Green Hills, GS St Ignace Kibagabaga, College de Gisenyi-Inyemeramihigo, GSO Butare, GS St Joseph Kabgayi, St Aloys-Rwamagana and Regina Pacis Secondary School-Musanze in boys category.
In girls category, schools which will be targeted include; St Vincent Muhoza-Musanze, GS du Bon Conseil-Byumba, LNDC Kigali, Lycée de Kigali, Ecole Notre Dame de la Providence-Karubanda, St Joseph Kabgayi, College ADEGI, College St André, Green Hills and GS St Joseph de Birambo.
Rwanda Basketball Federation has received a financial boost worth US$21, 000 (about Rfw14.m) from the International Olympic Committee for the development of the sport from the grassroots.
According to Ferwaba officials, the programme will start from January 19 to June 15.
The whole project requires about US$32,000, (about Rwf22.5m), which leaves Ferwaba with a deficit of US$11,000 (approximately Rwf7.7m).
The financial boost has been offered by the Olympic Solidarity through the Rwanda National Olympic Committee following a successful proposal made by the local basketball body last year.
The money will also help to organise training clinics for local coaches, who will be involved in handling the beneficially Under-16 youngsters in different schools around the country.
The secondary schools that will benefit from the project include; Lycée de Kigali, College Saint André (Kigali), IFAK Kimihurura, Green Hills, GS St Ignace Kibagabaga, College de Gisenyi-Inyemeramihigo, GSO Butare, GS St Joseph Kabgayi, St Aloys-Rwamagana and Regina Pacis Secondary School-Musanze in boys category.
In girls category, schools which will be targeted include; St Vincent Muhoza-Musanze, GS du Bon Conseil-Byumba, LNDC Kigali, Lycée de Kigali, Ecole Notre Dame de la Providence-Karubanda, St Joseph Kabgayi, College ADEGI, College St André, Green Hills and GS St Joseph de Birambo.
Tunisia's Basketball Cup (16th Final) Results
Tunis — Results of the games of Tunisia's 16th basketball cup (men's) played Saturday.
JS Menzah - Sfax RS withdrawal of SRS
CBB Ksar Helal - ASC Bizerte 68-61
DS Grombalia - S.Nabeulien 67-78
Gazelec - Ezzahra Sport delayed
AS Hammamet - AS Marsa withdrawal of ASM
US Monastir - CA Bizertin 74-52
AS Megrine - CBB Mahdia withdrawal of CBBM
ES Goulette - SS Gabésien 100-43
Exempt : C.Africain, JS Kairouan, finalists of precedent edition, SS.Kasserine, ES Radès, CS Hammam-Sousse, CS Cheminots, Tacapès, ES Sahel
JS Menzah - Sfax RS withdrawal of SRS
CBB Ksar Helal - ASC Bizerte 68-61
DS Grombalia - S.Nabeulien 67-78
Gazelec - Ezzahra Sport delayed
AS Hammamet - AS Marsa withdrawal of ASM
US Monastir - CA Bizertin 74-52
AS Megrine - CBB Mahdia withdrawal of CBBM
ES Goulette - SS Gabésien 100-43
Exempt : C.Africain, JS Kairouan, finalists of precedent edition, SS.Kasserine, ES Radès, CS Hammam-Sousse, CS Cheminots, Tacapès, ES Sahel
21 January 2015
RWANDA : Espoir B-Ball Coach challenges team ahead of 2015 season
Espoir
captain Aristide Mugabe (L) tries to get past CSK's Patrick Buzangu
during the play-offs finals last season. (R. Bishumba)
Espoir Basketball coach Jean Bahufite has
challenged his players to make history by winning all five competitions
they are involved in this season, starting with a pre-season tournament
this weekend.
The national basketball will kick off on February 7 in both the men and women’s categories and will run for seven months.
Bahufite, who confirmed that he will bolster his squad with a couple of signings, wants his players to not only retain the league title but also win this year’s Fiba Africa zone Five championships, the play-offs, the Genocide memorial tourney, and a pre-season warm up tournament slated for January 24-31.
“The team was brilliant last season because we won four domestic trophies even tough we didn’t do well on the regional scene. That is why I am challenging my players to win every trophy available,” Bahufite said adding that his players are currently under intensive training ahead of the new season.
The Nyamirambo-based side has won the league three times as well as dominated the playoffs since 2012.
The national basketball will kick off on February 7 in both the men and women’s categories and will run for seven months.
Bahufite, who confirmed that he will bolster his squad with a couple of signings, wants his players to not only retain the league title but also win this year’s Fiba Africa zone Five championships, the play-offs, the Genocide memorial tourney, and a pre-season warm up tournament slated for January 24-31.
“The team was brilliant last season because we won four domestic trophies even tough we didn’t do well on the regional scene. That is why I am challenging my players to win every trophy available,” Bahufite said adding that his players are currently under intensive training ahead of the new season.
The Nyamirambo-based side has won the league three times as well as dominated the playoffs since 2012.
20 January 2015
KENYA : Sudanese Chan propels USIU-A Flames to playoffs final
Sudanesese Sarah Chan(right) reacts in a past match. She was outstanding for USIU Flames in the semi- finals.(Photo by Shutterspeed)
Sudanese import Sarah Chan was the
star player as United States International University- Africa, USIU-A,
made it to the women premier league playoffs final on Monday at the
expense of Co-operative Bank.
The students convincingly won game three 75-44 to seal a 3-0 series win and will meet Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in the final.
Chan’s influence on the court was notable as she top scored for the third game in a row scoring 25 points and grabbed 19 rebounds.
Just like in the other two semifinal games, she was the most fielded player for USIU staying on the court for 36:54.
In total, Chan played for 107.26 in the three games out of the possible 120 and was omnipresent in both offensive and defensive play for USIU.
She was the highest rated player on the court
. “I try a lot but my team makes me the best. I cannot take full credit,” she told sportsnewsarena.com.
“I am not totally happy with my performance because I make mistakes. However, it is always good to see my teammates cover well whenever that happens.”
Chan will be the key player for USIU in the final and she is looking forward to the challenge. “Both teams are good with outstanding individual players and we are ready for it.”
Head coach George Mayienga acknowledged that Chan’s contribution was key in the team’s triumph. “She was outstanding. Chan does not foul too much and that is why she plays for long. If she was committing too many fouls then I would definitely substitute her.”
Hilda Indasi came late into the game and managed to score 16 points for USIU after playing for 22:59. She had five rebounds and two assists. Carol Ouma who played for 33:03 top scored for Co-op Bank with 14 points and grabbed four rebounds while Celine Okumu added 10 points with four rebounds and two assists.
USIU play KPA in the finals
The bankers were totally dominated from the start as they only led for 40 seconds compared to USIU’s 38:12.
Midway the second quarter, they were already trailing by 25 points which killed off their morale. Co-op Bank’s two key players for the series Grace Wanjiku and Melissa Akinyi started on the bench.
They came on in the second quarter and it appeared to have affected their play. Head coach Robert Mugabe defended his decision. “I treat all players equally and that is my philosophy. Some people might have felt that they were too good to start but its not a justification not to stick to my game plan,” he said.
“Even the best players need to feel the competition from within.”
USIU won all quarters 26-13, 13-12, 15-11 and 21-8 and reaped heavily from the paint with 36 points against Co-op Bank’s 12.
Turnovers contributed 12 points for USIU and 3 for Co-op Bank while both teams scored 2 points each from fast breaks.
The lead changed hands twice while both teams were tied for two times in the whole game. Mugabe conceded losing to a better team.
“We lost this game at the post. They had Chan who collected all the second balls while we missed a tall post player. Ours were good but could not match the competition.”
USIUs focus now is on the final and will travel to Mombasa for the first two games this weekend. Mayienga still has worries of missing key players who might not travel due to work commitments and classwork.
Also, there is the aspect of fatigue which will weigh down on his players. “We will train for the next three days, leave on Friday and play our first game on Saturday. It will take a toll on my players but we will prevail.”
This will be the third season in a row that USIU is playing in the final. Co-op Bank will play Sprite Storms in the third-place playoff.
The students convincingly won game three 75-44 to seal a 3-0 series win and will meet Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in the final.
Chan’s influence on the court was notable as she top scored for the third game in a row scoring 25 points and grabbed 19 rebounds.
Just like in the other two semifinal games, she was the most fielded player for USIU staying on the court for 36:54.
In total, Chan played for 107.26 in the three games out of the possible 120 and was omnipresent in both offensive and defensive play for USIU.
She was the highest rated player on the court
. “I try a lot but my team makes me the best. I cannot take full credit,” she told sportsnewsarena.com.
“I am not totally happy with my performance because I make mistakes. However, it is always good to see my teammates cover well whenever that happens.”
Chan will be the key player for USIU in the final and she is looking forward to the challenge. “Both teams are good with outstanding individual players and we are ready for it.”
Head coach George Mayienga acknowledged that Chan’s contribution was key in the team’s triumph. “She was outstanding. Chan does not foul too much and that is why she plays for long. If she was committing too many fouls then I would definitely substitute her.”
Hilda Indasi came late into the game and managed to score 16 points for USIU after playing for 22:59. She had five rebounds and two assists. Carol Ouma who played for 33:03 top scored for Co-op Bank with 14 points and grabbed four rebounds while Celine Okumu added 10 points with four rebounds and two assists.
USIU play KPA in the finals
The bankers were totally dominated from the start as they only led for 40 seconds compared to USIU’s 38:12.
Midway the second quarter, they were already trailing by 25 points which killed off their morale. Co-op Bank’s two key players for the series Grace Wanjiku and Melissa Akinyi started on the bench.
They came on in the second quarter and it appeared to have affected their play. Head coach Robert Mugabe defended his decision. “I treat all players equally and that is my philosophy. Some people might have felt that they were too good to start but its not a justification not to stick to my game plan,” he said.
“Even the best players need to feel the competition from within.”
USIU won all quarters 26-13, 13-12, 15-11 and 21-8 and reaped heavily from the paint with 36 points against Co-op Bank’s 12.
Turnovers contributed 12 points for USIU and 3 for Co-op Bank while both teams scored 2 points each from fast breaks.
The lead changed hands twice while both teams were tied for two times in the whole game. Mugabe conceded losing to a better team.
“We lost this game at the post. They had Chan who collected all the second balls while we missed a tall post player. Ours were good but could not match the competition.”
USIUs focus now is on the final and will travel to Mombasa for the first two games this weekend. Mayienga still has worries of missing key players who might not travel due to work commitments and classwork.
Also, there is the aspect of fatigue which will weigh down on his players. “We will train for the next three days, leave on Friday and play our first game on Saturday. It will take a toll on my players but we will prevail.”
This will be the third season in a row that USIU is playing in the final. Co-op Bank will play Sprite Storms in the third-place playoff.
19 January 2015
NIGERIA : Youth Alive Junior League Begins Weekend
The 2015 season of the Lagos State Junior Basketball tagged "Youth
Alive" Junior Basketball League will Jump-ball on Friday 16th January,
2014.
The annual developmental league for Under-15 and 19's which has been remodeled, will for the first time feature schools and academies in separate category and four different traditional basketball venues across the Lagos metropolis will entertain the best amateur basketball players in the state.
According to the Technical Director of the Lagos State Basketball Association who doubles as the Coordinator of the Youth Alive Junior League, Mr Gbade Latona, said the idea is to avail all interested schools and basketball academies an opportunity to participate and reduce travel time of teams to the playing arena during game days.
Traditional basketball courts of Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba; Police College, Ikeja; Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island and the Ilupeju Basketball Court will all be utilised for the League. Matches will hold simultaneously at all venues on Fridays and Saturdays for the six-month period the League will run.
Opening day fixtures set for this Friday, will see Dodan Warriors Academy 'A' against Raptors Academy Under-19s and Del Basketball Academy battles Raptors Academy in the Under-15 category at the Ilupeju centre.
At the Police College centre, Police Rookies will battle Warlord Academy in the Under-19s, while Phidell play Police Rookies and Diamond Academy against Police Rookies on Saturday.
The Rowe Park Centre will see the River Dragons Under-19s' against Deepbond Under-19s' while Strong Tower and River Dragons battle in the Under-15 category on Friday. The following day will feature Top Field against River Dragons while we will witness the first female match up of the season when Raptors faceoff against Hope '4' Girls at same venue.
The annual developmental league for Under-15 and 19's which has been remodeled, will for the first time feature schools and academies in separate category and four different traditional basketball venues across the Lagos metropolis will entertain the best amateur basketball players in the state.
According to the Technical Director of the Lagos State Basketball Association who doubles as the Coordinator of the Youth Alive Junior League, Mr Gbade Latona, said the idea is to avail all interested schools and basketball academies an opportunity to participate and reduce travel time of teams to the playing arena during game days.
Traditional basketball courts of Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba; Police College, Ikeja; Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island and the Ilupeju Basketball Court will all be utilised for the League. Matches will hold simultaneously at all venues on Fridays and Saturdays for the six-month period the League will run.
Opening day fixtures set for this Friday, will see Dodan Warriors Academy 'A' against Raptors Academy Under-19s and Del Basketball Academy battles Raptors Academy in the Under-15 category at the Ilupeju centre.
At the Police College centre, Police Rookies will battle Warlord Academy in the Under-19s, while Phidell play Police Rookies and Diamond Academy against Police Rookies on Saturday.
The Rowe Park Centre will see the River Dragons Under-19s' against Deepbond Under-19s' while Strong Tower and River Dragons battle in the Under-15 category on Friday. The following day will feature Top Field against River Dragons while we will witness the first female match up of the season when Raptors faceoff against Hope '4' Girls at same venue.
TUNISIA : National Basketball Championship - First Phase - Last Day Results
Tunis, — Results of Tunisia's National Basketball Championship first phase last-day games played on Wednesday afternoon:
Group A:
GS Tunis - ES Goulette 54-56
CA Bizertin - US Monastir 63-72
JS Kairouan - C.Africain 74-81
Ranking: Pts G
1) Club Africain 24 12 Qualify for playoff
2) US Monastir 21 12 Qualify for playoff
3) JS Kairouan 18 12 Qualify for playoff
4) ES Goulette 18 12 Qualify for playoff
5) CA Bizertin 17 12 playout
6) Ezzahra sport 16 12 playout
7) Gazelec 12 12 playout
Group B:
AS Hammamet - ES Sahel 60-78
S. Nabeulien - Sfax RS 109-33
JS Manazeh - CS Cheminots 71-55
Ranking: Pts G
1) ES Sahel 22 12 Qualify for playoff
2) ES Rades 22 12 Qualify for playoff
3) S. Nabeulien 21 12 Qualify for playoff
4) AS Hammamet 18 12 Qualify for playoff
5) JS Manazeh 17 12 playout
6) CS Cheminots 14 12 playout
7) Sfax RS 10 12 playout
NB : C. Africain and ES Sahel will begin playoff with one-bonus point for having finished on the top of their respective groups in the first phase.
In playoff, CA Bizertin and JS Manazeh will have a one-bonus point each.
Group A:
GS Tunis - ES Goulette 54-56
CA Bizertin - US Monastir 63-72
JS Kairouan - C.Africain 74-81
Ranking: Pts G
1) Club Africain 24 12 Qualify for playoff
2) US Monastir 21 12 Qualify for playoff
3) JS Kairouan 18 12 Qualify for playoff
4) ES Goulette 18 12 Qualify for playoff
5) CA Bizertin 17 12 playout
6) Ezzahra sport 16 12 playout
7) Gazelec 12 12 playout
Group B:
AS Hammamet - ES Sahel 60-78
S. Nabeulien - Sfax RS 109-33
JS Manazeh - CS Cheminots 71-55
Ranking: Pts G
1) ES Sahel 22 12 Qualify for playoff
2) ES Rades 22 12 Qualify for playoff
3) S. Nabeulien 21 12 Qualify for playoff
4) AS Hammamet 18 12 Qualify for playoff
5) JS Manazeh 17 12 playout
6) CS Cheminots 14 12 playout
7) Sfax RS 10 12 playout
NB : C. Africain and ES Sahel will begin playoff with one-bonus point for having finished on the top of their respective groups in the first phase.
In playoff, CA Bizertin and JS Manazeh will have a one-bonus point each.
TANZANIA : Major Basketball Tourney Revived
By Alloyce Kimbunga
Dar es Salaam — FIVE countries will contest the renewed East and Central Africa Basketball Inter-cities championship in Tanzania later this year.
The host country - Tanzania, defending champions Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda will battle it out for honours in Dar-es-Salaam on May 27-31.
Addressing media, Cities Executive Officer, Wesonga Agina, said a sponsor had been secured to help stage the event.
"For the last few years, we have been unable to take both teams to the tournament due of lack of funds. This time, we hope to have the men's team on board as well," Owino said.
Dar es Salaam — FIVE countries will contest the renewed East and Central Africa Basketball Inter-cities championship in Tanzania later this year.
The host country - Tanzania, defending champions Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda will battle it out for honours in Dar-es-Salaam on May 27-31.
Addressing media, Cities Executive Officer, Wesonga Agina, said a sponsor had been secured to help stage the event.
"For the last few years, we have been unable to take both teams to the tournament due of lack of funds. This time, we hope to have the men's team on board as well," Owino said.
18 January 2015
KENYA : KPA qualify for final, USIU-A leads Co-op Bank
Diane Nikuse celebrates a point in a previous game. USIU-A Flames will miss three key players for the third match against Co-Op Bank on Monday. (Photo by Shutterspeed)
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has
qualified for the Kenya Basketball Federation women premier league
playoffs final after beating Sprite Storms 3-0 series.
The defending champions won game three 65-32 in Mombasa on Saturday and are likely to face USIU-A flames who lead Co-Operative Bank 2-0.
In Mombasa, KPA took a 34-9 halftime lead with Helen Oketch top scoring with 13 points and Carol Mureji adding 12. Angela Luchivya top-scored for Storms with 16.
USIU-A is only a game away from qualification after taking a 2-0 series lead over Co-op Bank and appear set up for a repeat of last year’s final. Game three will be played on Monday.
In game one, the students won 60-54 with Sarah Chan scoring a game high 25 points, grabbed 19 rebounds and played for 35:20 while Mercy Etyang top scored for Co-op Bank with 11 points and 8 rebounds while Grace Wanjiku added 10 and grabbed three rebounds
Out of 18 attempts, USIU-A made only three 3-point shots, scored 20 baskets from 50 attempts and eleven free-throws from 20 attempts. They enjoyed the lead for longest period at 29:53 and had the biggest lead of 17 points.
Co-op Bank’s 13 attempts from the 3-point line yielded fifteen points, scored nine free-throws from 12 attempts and 15 baskets from 40 attempts. The bankers only led for 3:16 and their biggest lead was three points.
In this game, the lead changed hands five times and tied six times.
Tougher game two
Game two was tougher for Co-op Bank who lost by 18 points as USIU-A won 61-43. Co-op Bank started off stronger of the two sides winning the first quarter 15-13 after earlier leading by seven points.
Sarah Chan who had 10 points by halftime scored crucial baskets to help USIU-A win the second quarter 18-6 for a 31-21 halftime lead.
The bankers only led in the first quarter after which they faded when USIU-A tok control. USIU-A killed off the game in second half winning 15-10 and 15-12 in the third and fourth quarters.
Chan top-scored for USIU-A with 19 points grabbing 14 rebounds after playing for 35:52 while Hilda Indasi added 16. Grace Wanjiku was Co-op Bank’s highest scorer with 13 points while Carol Ouma grabbed nine rebounds.
The students had the biggest lead of 20 points against the bankers’ seven. USIU-A scored 19 points from turnovers against Co-op Bank’s nine while 30 points for USIU-A came from the paint against Co-op Bank’s 18.
USIU-A head coach George Mayienga lamented the absence of key players in game three which could given an advantage to the bankers as they seek a comeback.
Indasi will have work commitments while Cynthia Irankunda, Zipporah Adhiambo and Diane Nikuse will be having classes. “The game will be tough without these players so its not done yet. There is nothing we can do.” Monday will be crucial for Mayienga as he tries a new combination.
The defending champions won game three 65-32 in Mombasa on Saturday and are likely to face USIU-A flames who lead Co-Operative Bank 2-0.
In Mombasa, KPA took a 34-9 halftime lead with Helen Oketch top scoring with 13 points and Carol Mureji adding 12. Angela Luchivya top-scored for Storms with 16.
USIU-A is only a game away from qualification after taking a 2-0 series lead over Co-op Bank and appear set up for a repeat of last year’s final. Game three will be played on Monday.
In game one, the students won 60-54 with Sarah Chan scoring a game high 25 points, grabbed 19 rebounds and played for 35:20 while Mercy Etyang top scored for Co-op Bank with 11 points and 8 rebounds while Grace Wanjiku added 10 and grabbed three rebounds
Out of 18 attempts, USIU-A made only three 3-point shots, scored 20 baskets from 50 attempts and eleven free-throws from 20 attempts. They enjoyed the lead for longest period at 29:53 and had the biggest lead of 17 points.
Co-op Bank’s 13 attempts from the 3-point line yielded fifteen points, scored nine free-throws from 12 attempts and 15 baskets from 40 attempts. The bankers only led for 3:16 and their biggest lead was three points.
In this game, the lead changed hands five times and tied six times.
Tougher game two
Game two was tougher for Co-op Bank who lost by 18 points as USIU-A won 61-43. Co-op Bank started off stronger of the two sides winning the first quarter 15-13 after earlier leading by seven points.
Sarah Chan who had 10 points by halftime scored crucial baskets to help USIU-A win the second quarter 18-6 for a 31-21 halftime lead.
The bankers only led in the first quarter after which they faded when USIU-A tok control. USIU-A killed off the game in second half winning 15-10 and 15-12 in the third and fourth quarters.
Chan top-scored for USIU-A with 19 points grabbing 14 rebounds after playing for 35:52 while Hilda Indasi added 16. Grace Wanjiku was Co-op Bank’s highest scorer with 13 points while Carol Ouma grabbed nine rebounds.
The students had the biggest lead of 20 points against the bankers’ seven. USIU-A scored 19 points from turnovers against Co-op Bank’s nine while 30 points for USIU-A came from the paint against Co-op Bank’s 18.
USIU-A head coach George Mayienga lamented the absence of key players in game three which could given an advantage to the bankers as they seek a comeback.
Indasi will have work commitments while Cynthia Irankunda, Zipporah Adhiambo and Diane Nikuse will be having classes. “The game will be tough without these players so its not done yet. There is nothing we can do.” Monday will be crucial for Mayienga as he tries a new combination.
17 January 2015
UGANDA : Basketball's Potential Big Money Transfers
By Felix Eupal
It might be two months before the start of the 2015 Airtel Fuba National Basketball League season, but teams are already in backroom politics trying to secure players they believe can make them better. Felix Eupal looks at the most sought out players for the upcoming season.
Suudi Ulanga
Despite his ball handling and shooting skills, Ulanga has no Fuba title to his name. Yet, it is something he craves so much. He first played for Falcons and has now given four years to Uganda Christian University Canons, whom he wants to leave.
Tiger Head Power, City Oilers, Stanbic Warriors, and StarTimes Falcons are all pursuing him. His offensive attributes would make any of them tick, especially if one is to consider that City Oilers and Power will be competing at the Africa Zone Five Club Championships.
Geoffrey Soro
The powerful forward has been a marvel for coach Walker Obedi and the Ndejje Angels. In 2010, he had his biggest breakthrough, as he was among the four selected players to attend the Sprite Basketball Without Boarders camp in South Africa.
He then won the Fuba league regular season MVP award in 2012. But last season, he was a shadow of himself, something he attributes to injury. However, he is still one of the best forwards in the league and City Oilers and Power have both placed offers for him since his contract with Ndejje is done.
Jonah Otim
If it weren't for Otim's sublime performances last season, Ndejje wouldn't have made the play-offs. The shooting guard produced on all fronts: defensively and offensively. He is, however, a free agent now. And whoever lands his signature will get real value for money because of his wonderful all-round game.
Michael Makiadi
The Kampala International University (KIU) Titans' centre Makiadi was one of the best rebounders and offered a lot on defence. Power is vying for his signature to ensure that they can fix their defensive problems.
Makiadi is a free agent at the moment but has been non-committal to any side so far, which has improved his bargaining badge.
It might be two months before the start of the 2015 Airtel Fuba National Basketball League season, but teams are already in backroom politics trying to secure players they believe can make them better. Felix Eupal looks at the most sought out players for the upcoming season.
Suudi Ulanga
Despite his ball handling and shooting skills, Ulanga has no Fuba title to his name. Yet, it is something he craves so much. He first played for Falcons and has now given four years to Uganda Christian University Canons, whom he wants to leave.
Tiger Head Power, City Oilers, Stanbic Warriors, and StarTimes Falcons are all pursuing him. His offensive attributes would make any of them tick, especially if one is to consider that City Oilers and Power will be competing at the Africa Zone Five Club Championships.
Geoffrey Soro
The powerful forward has been a marvel for coach Walker Obedi and the Ndejje Angels. In 2010, he had his biggest breakthrough, as he was among the four selected players to attend the Sprite Basketball Without Boarders camp in South Africa.
He then won the Fuba league regular season MVP award in 2012. But last season, he was a shadow of himself, something he attributes to injury. However, he is still one of the best forwards in the league and City Oilers and Power have both placed offers for him since his contract with Ndejje is done.
Jonah Otim
If it weren't for Otim's sublime performances last season, Ndejje wouldn't have made the play-offs. The shooting guard produced on all fronts: defensively and offensively. He is, however, a free agent now. And whoever lands his signature will get real value for money because of his wonderful all-round game.
Michael Makiadi
The Kampala International University (KIU) Titans' centre Makiadi was one of the best rebounders and offered a lot on defence. Power is vying for his signature to ensure that they can fix their defensive problems.
Makiadi is a free agent at the moment but has been non-committal to any side so far, which has improved his bargaining badge.
KENYA : USIU-A Flames and Co-op Bank clash in playoffs semis
United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) and Co-operative
Bank will face off this weekend as the Kenya Basketball Federation women
premier league semifinal playoffs resume.
The fixtures were pushed from December and both teams are seeking their
maiden league title. Game one will be played on today, Saturday at the Nyayo
National Stadium gymnasium and will stretch to Wednesday if the series goes to
the wire.
On paper, USIU-A appears the more experienced side having played in the
last two seasons’ final but lost to Eagle Wings and KPA. They are also the Zone
V champions and will be looking to add the league title to their cabinet. But
first they have to break the bankers’ hurdle this weekend before daring to
dream.
Co-op Bank could have an edge at the backcourt with point guard Grace
Wanjiku calling the shots while Hilda Indasi will lead USIU-A's offense.
The second semifinal clash will pit Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) against
Sprite Storms in Mombasa.
Before the festive season break, both teams had played first two games with
KPA leading the series 2-0 after winning 67-41 and 61-24. A win on Saturday for KPA will book them an early ticket
to the final while Storms must win the remaining three games, all to be played
in Mombasa, to proceed.
Helen Oketch, Yvonne Akinyi and Natalie Akinyi are the notable players for
KPA while Storms will rely on Linert Mukiri, Mercy Wanyama and Angela Luchivya.
Both teams met at the same stage last season with KPA winning 3-0 en-route to claiming the overall title.
All the games including final will be officiated under the 2014 Fiba rules
as follows:
Art 2, 4, 7 no charge zone lines are part of the zone.
Art 18.2.5 time out max of 2two timeouts in the last two minutes of the 4th
quarter
Art 29.2.3. On 24 seconds, reset to 14 sec following an offensive rebound.
Art 36 T-foul. Two T fouls leads to disqualification. Penalty for T is one
FT.
Classification criteria for tied points shall be by goal difference then
goals against and lastly toss of a coin.
Questions if a player is disqualified as a result of 2 T’s and 2 U’s shall
the player be allowed to sit on the players bench for the remainder of the
game?
Kindly check and read the interpretation of U foul on the last 2 minutes
during inbound.
Semifinal Playoffs Fixtures
Jan 17: USIU-A vs
Co-op Bank (4pm, Nyayo gymnasium), KPA vs Storms (4pm, KPA); Jan 18: Co-op
Bank vs USIU-A (4pm, Nyayo gymnasium), KPA vs Storms (4pm, KPA); Jan 19:
KPA vs Storms (4pm, KPA), USIU-A vs Co-op Bank (5pm, Nyayo gymnasium); Jan
20: Co-op Bank vs USIU-A (5pm, Nyayo gymnasium); Jan 21: USIU-A vs
Co-op Bank (5pm, Nyayo gymnasium); Finals (Jan 24-Feb 8.)
13 January 2015
ZAMBIA : ZBA Unveils Squad for Basketball Qualifiers
THE Zambia Basketball Association (ZBA) has
named a provisional 32-member squad for the Afro Basketball qualifiers
which will be held in Zimbabwe next month.
ZBA vice-president south, Conrad Musonda said the team had already commenced preparations for the Afro Basketball qualifiers set for February 21-25.
Musonda said in an interview in Lusaka yesterday that the association had selected 12 players from the Copperbelt and 20 from Lusaka.
"Training commenced two months ago and players will have to work hard in order to secure a spot on the final list which will come to 12 men," Musonda said.
Zambia has been grouped with defending champions Angola, South Africa and hosts Zimbabwe.
Musonda urged the players to work hard if Zambia was to qualify for the Afro Basket Championships and 2015 All Africa games.
The players from the northern region (Copperbelt) are Kabwe Fundala, Bongani Zulu, Saviour Mutale, Shambona Kapopa, Zaninge Simwaba, Aggripa Chama, Kansoni Luwawa, Micheal Kaungu, Douglas Mushitu, Emmanual Chiundaponde, Henry Kabungo and Cletus Kafula.
From the southern zone (Lusaka) are Gosa Hamudulu, Songiwayo Mwanza, Zawalika Daka, Chansa Mufwaume, Candy Musukwa, Fred Kaela, Mate Lisimba, Obert Muleza and Simukwela Lubinda.
The rest are Richard Sakala, Baron Kabwe, Chongo Chona, Paul Kashishi, Jermaine Mauwe, Abraham Mwansa, Francis Kamadisa Sinyinda, Likando Namakando, Titus Ndhlovu, Francis Chibesa and Patson Siame.
ZBA vice-president south, Conrad Musonda said the team had already commenced preparations for the Afro Basketball qualifiers set for February 21-25.
Musonda said in an interview in Lusaka yesterday that the association had selected 12 players from the Copperbelt and 20 from Lusaka.
"Training commenced two months ago and players will have to work hard in order to secure a spot on the final list which will come to 12 men," Musonda said.
Zambia has been grouped with defending champions Angola, South Africa and hosts Zimbabwe.
Musonda urged the players to work hard if Zambia was to qualify for the Afro Basket Championships and 2015 All Africa games.
The players from the northern region (Copperbelt) are Kabwe Fundala, Bongani Zulu, Saviour Mutale, Shambona Kapopa, Zaninge Simwaba, Aggripa Chama, Kansoni Luwawa, Micheal Kaungu, Douglas Mushitu, Emmanual Chiundaponde, Henry Kabungo and Cletus Kafula.
From the southern zone (Lusaka) are Gosa Hamudulu, Songiwayo Mwanza, Zawalika Daka, Chansa Mufwaume, Candy Musukwa, Fred Kaela, Mate Lisimba, Obert Muleza and Simukwela Lubinda.
The rest are Richard Sakala, Baron Kabwe, Chongo Chona, Paul Kashishi, Jermaine Mauwe, Abraham Mwansa, Francis Kamadisa Sinyinda, Likando Namakando, Titus Ndhlovu, Francis Chibesa and Patson Siame.
A
12 January 2015
TANZANIA : Vijana, Kurasini Heats Face Off in RBA League
VIJANA 'City Bulls' will be looking to close the gap with the Dar es
Salaam Basketball League (RBA) leaders JKT when they take on Kurasini
Heats today at the National Indoor Stadium.
'City Bulls', who are currently in the fourth spot of the league standing with 19 points, will go for a win against Kurasini Heats, who sit second bottom in the standing with 13 points when the league resumes after a month break.
However, Vijana should expect a stiff competition from their opponents, as they will also be fighting to rescue themselves from the relegation zone.
Today's game will mark the opening of the league's second round. The Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) Technical and Competition Director, Jimmy Nkongo, said that apart from the 'City Bulls' and Kurasini Heats game, the day will also witness another encounter, which will be televised live by Azam Television between Chang'ombe United and Tanzania Prisons scheduled to start at 8pm.
According to Nkongo, the league will continue tomorrow with three games, which will see Tanzania Prisons locking horns with Jeshi Stars in the ladies category, while in men's group, Jogoo will play against Pazi and Chui will battle it out against Oilers.
On Sunday, Savio will take on Don Bosco Young Stars and the next game will be between Oilers and Mgulani JKT. The day will also see Chui taking on Chang'ombe United, while JKT and Vijana 'City Bulls' will face off in the final match of the day.
The RBA league came to a halt a month ago as JKT were leading in the standing with 22 points followed by Pazi. Pazi settled in second spot on goals differences as they tie on points with Mgulani and Vijana, who are in third and fourth spots respectively.
In ladies category, JKT Stars are leading with seven points followed by Don Bosco Lioness also with seven points, but Stars are in the lead on goals difference.
They have scored 285 goals compared to 239 bagged by their opponents. Vijana Queens and Chang'ombe United are at the bottom of the league in the ladies and men's categories respectively.
'City Bulls', who are currently in the fourth spot of the league standing with 19 points, will go for a win against Kurasini Heats, who sit second bottom in the standing with 13 points when the league resumes after a month break.
However, Vijana should expect a stiff competition from their opponents, as they will also be fighting to rescue themselves from the relegation zone.
Today's game will mark the opening of the league's second round. The Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) Technical and Competition Director, Jimmy Nkongo, said that apart from the 'City Bulls' and Kurasini Heats game, the day will also witness another encounter, which will be televised live by Azam Television between Chang'ombe United and Tanzania Prisons scheduled to start at 8pm.
According to Nkongo, the league will continue tomorrow with three games, which will see Tanzania Prisons locking horns with Jeshi Stars in the ladies category, while in men's group, Jogoo will play against Pazi and Chui will battle it out against Oilers.
On Sunday, Savio will take on Don Bosco Young Stars and the next game will be between Oilers and Mgulani JKT. The day will also see Chui taking on Chang'ombe United, while JKT and Vijana 'City Bulls' will face off in the final match of the day.
The RBA league came to a halt a month ago as JKT were leading in the standing with 22 points followed by Pazi. Pazi settled in second spot on goals differences as they tie on points with Mgulani and Vijana, who are in third and fourth spots respectively.
In ladies category, JKT Stars are leading with seven points followed by Don Bosco Lioness also with seven points, but Stars are in the lead on goals difference.
They have scored 285 goals compared to 239 bagged by their opponents. Vijana Queens and Chang'ombe United are at the bottom of the league in the ladies and men's categories respectively.
11 January 2015
UGANDA : Basketball and Its 2015 Prospects
By Felix Eupal
Uganda's men's and women's basketball teams' participation in the Africa Afro Basketball championship is expected to be the highlight of 2015, as Felix Eupal previews the year in the hoops...
The 2014 MVP
Before anything, the 2014 MVP award in the different divisions remains an unresolved matter. And for many in the basketball fraternity, it is a pertinent issue that stirs lots of emotions. For many observers, Falcons' guard Cyrus Kiviri is tipped for the award because of his consistency in the regular season. But UCU's Sudi Ulanga is not far-off.
City Oilers' Ben Komakech and Jimmy Enabu turned on the style during the play-offs in fighting from 2-0 down to beat UCU Canons 3-2 before humiliating Tiger-Head Power 4-0 in the finals.
On the other hand, UCU Ladies' Judith Nansobya is a shoo-in for the MVP award in regular season. Her big three-point shots kept her team alive in many games. At the play-offs, however, Claire Lamunu is likely to run away with it for the way she inspired a KCCA Leopards' fight-back when they were 1-3 down against UCU Lady Canons.
Afro-basketball Championship
Once the MVP matter is dealt with, focus is expected to shift to matters on court when the men (Silverbacks) and women (Gazelles) teams head out for the Afro-basketball championship later this year.
For many basketball fans, they will be hoping that both teams replicate the form exhibited at the Africa Zone V Championship in September 2014. Last September, the Silverbacks finished second to Egypt while the Gazelles won the tournament, staving off the challenge of both Egypt and Kenya.
The women and men's teams will be flying to Cameroon and Tunisia respectively. This will be the first time Uganda competes at this level and taking on power-houses like Nigeria, Angola and Senegal should give the Ugandan teams some great test.
Zone V Club Championship
That said, the Afro-basketball championship will come after City Oilers and KCCA Leopards, the men and women NBL champions, have had another shot at the Africa Zone V Club Championship this year.
Last year, at City Oilers' maiden international outing, they finished with bronze. Leopards will also aim to bag gold this year, the same way their player Claire Lamunu was top-scorer at the Championship last year in Mombasa, Kenya.
Lugogo Saga
Until the NBL playoffs, and maybe the exception of the Africa Zone V Championships, which Uganda hosted, Fuba was unable to host any domestic championship games in the Lugogo indoor stadium, called the MTN arena.
Fuba and a number of its well-wishers are determined to resolve this impasse that sprung up once Airtel, a telecom rival to MTN, started sponsoring the NBL in 2013.
City Oilers look to hold fort
For the opponents of City Oilers, dislodging them this year is likely to be difficult. If they land UCU Canons' Sudi Ulanga and Ndejje University's Geoffrey Soro, they should be unbeatable this year.
Another KCCA and UCU Lady Canons battle
Unlike City Oilers, KCCA Leopards, the women's 2014 champions, aren't expected to have Peace Proscovia this year. The domineering and high scoring centre is heading to the UK to play netball. They should miss her.
At the same time, they should await a backlash from UCU whom they toppled this year. UCU, the 2012 and 2013 champions, were gutted that they let slip their 3-1 lead in the play-off finals to eventually lose 4-3.
Uganda's men's and women's basketball teams' participation in the Africa Afro Basketball championship is expected to be the highlight of 2015, as Felix Eupal previews the year in the hoops...
The 2014 MVP
Before anything, the 2014 MVP award in the different divisions remains an unresolved matter. And for many in the basketball fraternity, it is a pertinent issue that stirs lots of emotions. For many observers, Falcons' guard Cyrus Kiviri is tipped for the award because of his consistency in the regular season. But UCU's Sudi Ulanga is not far-off.
City Oilers' Ben Komakech and Jimmy Enabu turned on the style during the play-offs in fighting from 2-0 down to beat UCU Canons 3-2 before humiliating Tiger-Head Power 4-0 in the finals.
On the other hand, UCU Ladies' Judith Nansobya is a shoo-in for the MVP award in regular season. Her big three-point shots kept her team alive in many games. At the play-offs, however, Claire Lamunu is likely to run away with it for the way she inspired a KCCA Leopards' fight-back when they were 1-3 down against UCU Lady Canons.
Afro-basketball Championship
Once the MVP matter is dealt with, focus is expected to shift to matters on court when the men (Silverbacks) and women (Gazelles) teams head out for the Afro-basketball championship later this year.
For many basketball fans, they will be hoping that both teams replicate the form exhibited at the Africa Zone V Championship in September 2014. Last September, the Silverbacks finished second to Egypt while the Gazelles won the tournament, staving off the challenge of both Egypt and Kenya.
The women and men's teams will be flying to Cameroon and Tunisia respectively. This will be the first time Uganda competes at this level and taking on power-houses like Nigeria, Angola and Senegal should give the Ugandan teams some great test.
Zone V Club Championship
That said, the Afro-basketball championship will come after City Oilers and KCCA Leopards, the men and women NBL champions, have had another shot at the Africa Zone V Club Championship this year.
Last year, at City Oilers' maiden international outing, they finished with bronze. Leopards will also aim to bag gold this year, the same way their player Claire Lamunu was top-scorer at the Championship last year in Mombasa, Kenya.
Lugogo Saga
Until the NBL playoffs, and maybe the exception of the Africa Zone V Championships, which Uganda hosted, Fuba was unable to host any domestic championship games in the Lugogo indoor stadium, called the MTN arena.
Fuba and a number of its well-wishers are determined to resolve this impasse that sprung up once Airtel, a telecom rival to MTN, started sponsoring the NBL in 2013.
City Oilers look to hold fort
For the opponents of City Oilers, dislodging them this year is likely to be difficult. If they land UCU Canons' Sudi Ulanga and Ndejje University's Geoffrey Soro, they should be unbeatable this year.
Another KCCA and UCU Lady Canons battle
Unlike City Oilers, KCCA Leopards, the women's 2014 champions, aren't expected to have Peace Proscovia this year. The domineering and high scoring centre is heading to the UK to play netball. They should miss her.
At the same time, they should await a backlash from UCU whom they toppled this year. UCU, the 2012 and 2013 champions, were gutted that they let slip their 3-1 lead in the play-off finals to eventually lose 4-3.
10 January 2015
KENYA : Structure of the 2015 National League to Be Decided Next Month
A team managers meeting set for next month will determined the structure of the 2015 national league. Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) secretary general Vitalis Gode, said all the stakeholders will have a say on whether or not the number of teams in the three tiers should be increased and the conferences issue.
"This is not an easy thing to do without the input of both the KBF and the teams. This is why we will call for a meeting on a date to be announced later to discuss and exhaust the issue," said Gode.
KBF fixtures secretary Joseph Amoko had earlier in the week announced that the lower tier will be expanded to accommodate 20 teams from 16 and will be divided into two conferences--Eastern and Western--under the new format. Already two other teams from Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA)-- Mt. Kenya University (MKU), Thika and 4-Christ earned automatic tickets after finishing winners and runners up in the Inter Provincial play-offs in Kisumu. Amoko disclosed that Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology have been dropped from the league after failing to honour five consecutive matches. NBA chairman Ronnie Owino had written to KBF, asking them to include Emyba and Don Bosco in the expanded Division One.
"The NBA runs a serious league that has over 30 teams and it is only fair that KBF hand us two slots for our champions and the runners up in the expanded league," said Owino.
KENYA : Kenya Set to Bid for Africa Zone 5 UR-16 Championships
By Dann O'werre
KENYA will bid to host the Africa zone 5 under-16 boys and girls championship, according to Kenya Basketball Federation secretary general, Vitalis Gode.
The official yesterday confirmed he has already secured a ticket from the federation and will jetting out on January 17 to Cairo, Egypt for the Fiba Africa Zone Five Congress a day later, where he will present the Kenyan bid.
He said Coast Basketball Association (CBA) have agreed to the KBF proposal to host the championships at the Makande Welfare hall. CBA successfully hosted the Zone Five Club Championships last August. "We at KBF felt CBA chairman Hilmi Ali and his team did a commendable job during the regional club qualifiers and we want to give them another chance to host another top event," said Gode .
He said he will put up another request for Rwanda, who will host the Africa Club championships. The national league champions and runners up will fly the country's flag in this tournament. Mombasa hosted the last championships that attracted Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi. United States International University (USIU) won the ladies while Urunani of Burundi retained their men's title.
KENYA will bid to host the Africa zone 5 under-16 boys and girls championship, according to Kenya Basketball Federation secretary general, Vitalis Gode.
The official yesterday confirmed he has already secured a ticket from the federation and will jetting out on January 17 to Cairo, Egypt for the Fiba Africa Zone Five Congress a day later, where he will present the Kenyan bid.
He said Coast Basketball Association (CBA) have agreed to the KBF proposal to host the championships at the Makande Welfare hall. CBA successfully hosted the Zone Five Club Championships last August. "We at KBF felt CBA chairman Hilmi Ali and his team did a commendable job during the regional club qualifiers and we want to give them another chance to host another top event," said Gode .
He said he will put up another request for Rwanda, who will host the Africa Club championships. The national league champions and runners up will fly the country's flag in this tournament. Mombasa hosted the last championships that attracted Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi. United States International University (USIU) won the ladies while Urunani of Burundi retained their men's title.
09 January 2015
KENYA : Promote Emyba,Don Bosco to Div One, Says NBA Chief
By Dann O'werre
NAIROBI Basketball Association (NBA) chairman Ronnie Owino has written to Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) asking them to include Emyba and Don Bosco in the expanded Division One. Emyba and Don Bosco battled it out in the NBA finals last November with the former emerging winners after staging a remarkable recovery that saw them come from behind to claim the best of five series on a 3-2 basis.
"The NBA runs a serious league that has over 30 teams and it is only fair that KBF grant us two slots for our champions and the runners up in the expanded league," said Owino, adding that he was sure of a positive response. KBF fixtures secretary Joseph Amoko announced earlier in the week that the lower tier will be expanded to accommodate 20 teams from 16 with the new format being divided into two conferences namely Eastern and Western.
Already two other teams -- Mount Kenya University (MKU) Thika and 4-Christ-- have bagged the two automatic tickets by finishing winners and runners up respectively in the Inter Provincial play-offs in Kisumu. Amoko also disclosed that Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) have been dropped from the league after failing to honour five consecutive matches. The stakeholders also want KBF to increase the number of teams in the Premier League to 20 and introduce the conferences. This, they argue is the only way to cut on the number of matches and make the league end earlier than December.
NAIROBI Basketball Association (NBA) chairman Ronnie Owino has written to Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) asking them to include Emyba and Don Bosco in the expanded Division One. Emyba and Don Bosco battled it out in the NBA finals last November with the former emerging winners after staging a remarkable recovery that saw them come from behind to claim the best of five series on a 3-2 basis.
"The NBA runs a serious league that has over 30 teams and it is only fair that KBF grant us two slots for our champions and the runners up in the expanded league," said Owino, adding that he was sure of a positive response. KBF fixtures secretary Joseph Amoko announced earlier in the week that the lower tier will be expanded to accommodate 20 teams from 16 with the new format being divided into two conferences namely Eastern and Western.
Already two other teams -- Mount Kenya University (MKU) Thika and 4-Christ-- have bagged the two automatic tickets by finishing winners and runners up respectively in the Inter Provincial play-offs in Kisumu. Amoko also disclosed that Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) have been dropped from the league after failing to honour five consecutive matches. The stakeholders also want KBF to increase the number of teams in the Premier League to 20 and introduce the conferences. This, they argue is the only way to cut on the number of matches and make the league end earlier than December.
UGANDA : Falcons, StarTimes ink three-year deal
Coach Sam Obol talks to Falcons players during last season’s league game
against UCU Canons at YMCA Wandegeya. Falcons will don a different kit
after signing a lucrative deal with StarTimes. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA.
By ELVIS SENONO
With a league-leading six titles, Falcons are in many ways expected to set the pace on the domestic basketball scene.
With the league season still months away, Falcons
showed a statement of intent by signing a new sponsorship deal with Pay
TV giants Star Times.
The three-year renewable deal worth Shs250 million
will see the pay TV company take over the naming rights of the club in a
deal that will be reviewed depending on its success after the first
season.
“The game is growing rapidly as shown by the
qualification of our national teams, the Gazelles and Silverbacks to the
Afro Basketball championships. As record champions we have always
strived to be at the forefront of basketball’s growth,” Falcons’ Club
Chairman, Friday Kagoro stated.
“The rate at which the game has grown over the
last five years has convinced us it is worth rendering moral and
financial support to take it to the next level,” Star Times Marketing
Director, Aldrine Nsubuga added.
Falcons were ejected by UCU Canons after losing the quarterfinal series 2-1.
07 January 2015
TANZANIA : Local Basketball Body Introduces New Tournament
THE Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) enters the year 2015 with
plans to introduce a new tournament in its calendar, which aims at
promoting world peace.
TBF Secretary General Saleh Zonga told the 'Daily News on Saturday' in Dar es Salaam that the decision to introduce the new tournament in its annual calendar was met during the Executive Committee meeting held recently, in which they evaluated 2014 performance and drafted the 2015 calendar.
Zonga said that the new event on the 2015 calendar will take place in February, whereby it will involve various local and foreign teams.
"We have decided to introduce the event as part of the federation's efforts to promote peace and tranquillity in the country and globally in general," he said. He added that sports are among the major tools which are utilised to promote peace and bring unity and solidarity among people.
"Sports can bring people together towards a common goal, while promoting respect in the community by building relationships between different groups. Through sports, conflict can be transformed to peace," he said.
The date for the event will be named later after its preparation including the process of securing sponsors being finalised. Apart from that, Zonga said the event will also be staged to promote the sport and giving local players especially those who are upcoming, much needed experience of playing at international level.
Zonga also said that this year's National Basketball League (NBL) championship will be held in March. At least 20 clubs will battle for the title and for the first time, clubs from Zanzibar will compete in the event.
The TBF Secretary General also said that this year's NBL championship will be conducted from zonal level, whereby teams will battle in zones and the top two teams will cruise into the finals.
According to Zonga, the date and place where the finals will take place be will be announced later.
In another development, Zonga said the federation plans in this year is basically focused on promoting the sport countrywide, by conducting coaches and referees courses on various stages.
TBF Secretary General Saleh Zonga told the 'Daily News on Saturday' in Dar es Salaam that the decision to introduce the new tournament in its annual calendar was met during the Executive Committee meeting held recently, in which they evaluated 2014 performance and drafted the 2015 calendar.
Zonga said that the new event on the 2015 calendar will take place in February, whereby it will involve various local and foreign teams.
"We have decided to introduce the event as part of the federation's efforts to promote peace and tranquillity in the country and globally in general," he said. He added that sports are among the major tools which are utilised to promote peace and bring unity and solidarity among people.
"Sports can bring people together towards a common goal, while promoting respect in the community by building relationships between different groups. Through sports, conflict can be transformed to peace," he said.
The date for the event will be named later after its preparation including the process of securing sponsors being finalised. Apart from that, Zonga said the event will also be staged to promote the sport and giving local players especially those who are upcoming, much needed experience of playing at international level.
Zonga also said that this year's National Basketball League (NBL) championship will be held in March. At least 20 clubs will battle for the title and for the first time, clubs from Zanzibar will compete in the event.
The TBF Secretary General also said that this year's NBL championship will be conducted from zonal level, whereby teams will battle in zones and the top two teams will cruise into the finals.
According to Zonga, the date and place where the finals will take place be will be announced later.
In another development, Zonga said the federation plans in this year is basically focused on promoting the sport countrywide, by conducting coaches and referees courses on various stages.
RWANDA : Ferwaba to organise Heroes tournament
Rwanda Basketball Federation (Ferwaba) has partnered with APR
Basketball Club to organise the second edition of the Heroes basketball
tournament from January 24 to February 1 at Amahoro indoor stadium.
Ferwaba secretary general Richard Mutabazi has revealed that this tournament has been revived to increase the regularity of competitive tournaments throughout the year so as to gradually have clubs play more often.
Mutabazi said that, “We want to create a culture where clubs host tournaments and where they meet financial constraints, we can come on board and partner with them.
For example, the first edition of the Heroes tournament was hosted by APR so we encouraged them to host it again and make it an annual event.”
“Espoir hosts the annual Gisembe memorial tournament while CSK used to host the Kigali Challenge tournament and we want to encourage them to revive it once again and make it an annual event,” added Mutabazi.
According to the Ferwaba technical director Shema Maboko, all local clubs have been invited for the two-weekend competition including 12 men’s teams and six women’s clubs.
The preliminary round will be played from January 23-25 and the quarterfinals, semi-finals and finals will be played during the weekend of January 30-February 1.
Mutabazi explained that if few teams register for the event then it will be held on the weekend of January 30-February 1.
usher.komugisha@newtimes.co.rw
Ferwaba secretary general Richard Mutabazi has revealed that this tournament has been revived to increase the regularity of competitive tournaments throughout the year so as to gradually have clubs play more often.
Mutabazi said that, “We want to create a culture where clubs host tournaments and where they meet financial constraints, we can come on board and partner with them.
For example, the first edition of the Heroes tournament was hosted by APR so we encouraged them to host it again and make it an annual event.”
“Espoir hosts the annual Gisembe memorial tournament while CSK used to host the Kigali Challenge tournament and we want to encourage them to revive it once again and make it an annual event,” added Mutabazi.
According to the Ferwaba technical director Shema Maboko, all local clubs have been invited for the two-weekend competition including 12 men’s teams and six women’s clubs.
The preliminary round will be played from January 23-25 and the quarterfinals, semi-finals and finals will be played during the weekend of January 30-February 1.
Mutabazi explained that if few teams register for the event then it will be held on the weekend of January 30-February 1.
usher.komugisha@newtimes.co.rw
03 January 2015
NIGERIA : Mark D'Ball - Ugboaja Emerges MVP as Experience Shuts Out ESPN
By Olawale Ajimotokan
Otukpo — Nigeria's London 2012 Olympian, Ejike Ugboaja, was the star performance as 'Blame it on Experience' brushed aside ESPN on the eve of New Year Day in the final of the Mark D'Ball Basketball Tournament in Otukpo, Benue State.
The quality of the centre, who plays in Turkey for Istanbul Teknik Universitesi was reinforced as he emerged the final's Most Valuable Player, Best Rebounder and Highest Goal Score, ultimately boosting 'Blame it on Experience' which beat the youthful ESPN 86-77.
Experience had comfortable lead in all four quarters of the final aided mainly by downtown scores of Ugboaja, Igoche Mark, Abdulrahman Mohammed and Stanley Gummut. They took home the winning purse of N425,000 while ESPN got N300,000. Benue Braves got N170,000 as consolation prize for finishing third.
ESPN's only rally was in the closing phase of the match when they came within four points of the lead with three minutes on the watch. The match, viewed by a large crowd of revelers that cramped into Otukpo Sports Club, lived up to the hype as the star match given the scale of rivalry between both sides.
The final bore traces of vengeance given that it was ESPN that downed Experience in the quarter finals last year, while their semi-final defeat in the 2012 edition was inflicted by ESPN side.
At the end, 'Blame it on Experience' which in addition paraded the likes Ogor Odaudu, Tunji Awojobi, Usman Abubakar, Johny Alla and Osita Nwachukwu, won their third Mark D'Ball title.
Former national team captain, Awojobi, said though ESPN tried to outrun them on the court, ultimately deciding factor was maturity. "They are younger and athletic but we used our experience. We retained our composure and measured our game and did not give them upper hand," Awojobi sounded.
Ugboaja told reporters that ESPN would learn from the defeat while ESPN's big centre Chibuzor Njoku maintained that they lost because of carelessness.
Otukpo — Nigeria's London 2012 Olympian, Ejike Ugboaja, was the star performance as 'Blame it on Experience' brushed aside ESPN on the eve of New Year Day in the final of the Mark D'Ball Basketball Tournament in Otukpo, Benue State.
The quality of the centre, who plays in Turkey for Istanbul Teknik Universitesi was reinforced as he emerged the final's Most Valuable Player, Best Rebounder and Highest Goal Score, ultimately boosting 'Blame it on Experience' which beat the youthful ESPN 86-77.
Experience had comfortable lead in all four quarters of the final aided mainly by downtown scores of Ugboaja, Igoche Mark, Abdulrahman Mohammed and Stanley Gummut. They took home the winning purse of N425,000 while ESPN got N300,000. Benue Braves got N170,000 as consolation prize for finishing third.
ESPN's only rally was in the closing phase of the match when they came within four points of the lead with three minutes on the watch. The match, viewed by a large crowd of revelers that cramped into Otukpo Sports Club, lived up to the hype as the star match given the scale of rivalry between both sides.
The final bore traces of vengeance given that it was ESPN that downed Experience in the quarter finals last year, while their semi-final defeat in the 2012 edition was inflicted by ESPN side.
At the end, 'Blame it on Experience' which in addition paraded the likes Ogor Odaudu, Tunji Awojobi, Usman Abubakar, Johny Alla and Osita Nwachukwu, won their third Mark D'Ball title.
Former national team captain, Awojobi, said though ESPN tried to outrun them on the court, ultimately deciding factor was maturity. "They are younger and athletic but we used our experience. We retained our composure and measured our game and did not give them upper hand," Awojobi sounded.
Ugboaja told reporters that ESPN would learn from the defeat while ESPN's big centre Chibuzor Njoku maintained that they lost because of carelessness.
02 January 2015
UGANDA : Gazelles, Silverbacks break barriers
The national ladies basketball team, the Gazelles, show off their medals
after qualifying for the Afro basket and All Africa games as winners of
the Zone V Championship for the first time in history. photo by ismail
kezaala.
Kampala.
The last 365 days were undoubtedly the greatest in
Uganda’s basketball history. Aided by hosting the regional
championship, the national ladies team, Gazelles and men’s team, the
Silverbacks in September both qualified for the Fiba Africa Zone V
Championship and All-Africa games.
The ladies; as winners while the men finished
second behind Egypt. The accomplishment, a first for the Gazelles as the
Men’s team had previously qualified for the 1970 Afrobasket
championship in Egypt looked unlikely particularly for the ladies who
lost their opening two games.
A 61-65 loss to Egypt was followed by the 52-49
defeat to neighbours Kenya that left the Gazelles bottom after two games
of the women’s competition played under the double round-robin format.
Inspired by Claire Lamunu, the Gazelles won the
subsequent games, 78-45 against Egypt and Kenya 64-61. The small forward
scored 24 points in each of the last two games enroute to claiming the
MVP and top scorers’ (76 points) accolades.
Unlike the Gazelles the Silverbacks won their
first game beating Faisal Aden’s Somalia 84-74 before being brought down
to earth with an 85-77 loss to the Egyptians who never looked like
relinquishing their title.
With Rwanda beating Kenya 82-77, all the Silver backs needed to do was win their remaining two games against old foes Kenya and the Kami Kabange inspired Rwanda.
With Rwanda beating Kenya 82-77, all the Silver backs needed to do was win their remaining two games against old foes Kenya and the Kami Kabange inspired Rwanda.
They didn’t disappoint; Josh Johnson sprung to
life with 14 points as they beat Kenya 83-71 while Stephen Omony
delivered the Holy Grail with a game high 25 points in the 69-61 defeat
of Rwanda.
That success was in no small part, down to the
behind the scenes work done by the national team committee that ensured
smooth preparations even after the tournament was postponed from June to
September.
Lugogo Arena
Still with off court issues, the past season has not been the best in terms of organization of the Airtel National Basketball League (ANBL). Some issues like the unavailability of the Lugogo MTN Arena were beyond the federation. This meant a sizeable number of games were rescheduled with the outdoor YMCA court unable to host games during the wet season.
Still with off court issues, the past season has not been the best in terms of organization of the Airtel National Basketball League (ANBL). Some issues like the unavailability of the Lugogo MTN Arena were beyond the federation. This meant a sizeable number of games were rescheduled with the outdoor YMCA court unable to host games during the wet season.
The federation is however on the spot with
Vegetarian now threatening to go to courts of law contesting their
relegation after a rescheduled game against Sharing Youth was awarded in
favour of the latter.
That result meant they forfeited two points to
leave them on 25 after 22 games and in 11th position, one point less
than Diamond in the Sun which finished 10th.
On court, City Oilers dispelled any doubts if
there were any, about the best basketball team in the country. Having
won the league in their first season in the topflight in 2013, City
Oilers repeated the feat rather emphatically with a seven game unbeaten
run. Trailing 2-0 in the semi finals against UCU Canons, Oilers won
three straight games to clinch the series 3-2 and set up a final against
Tiger Head Power which edged Warriors 3-2. The final proved a mismatch
with the double act of Kami Kabange and Jimmy Enabu inspiring Oilers to a
4-0 series sweep.
In the ladies, Claire Lamunu capped a hugely
successful year averaging a series high 21 points to lead KCCA Leopards
to a 4-3 series win over UCU Lady Canons.
At the regional level, Ugandan clubs were not as
successful with City Oilers, Tiger Head Power and KCCA Leopards in the
ladies all falling at the semifinal stage. UCU Lady Canons meanwhile
finished fifth after being knocked out in the pool phase.
