After starting the season with six straight victories, StarTimes Falcons hit the first speed hump on Wednesday night at YMCA.
In a game dubbed “A Case of an Ex”, after the first quarter, as Falcons descended Our Saviour ascended.
Our Saviour who trailed by 9 points after the first period were up by 3 at halftime en-route to a 75-53 win.
Falcons’ import, Ariel Okall siad they lost focus as a team an eventually the game.
“I think we lost focus in the third quarter. We had to go out there
(after halftime) and close the game but we gave it away instead. The
guys lost focus, they lost their cool and everybody was doing their own
thins” Okal told Kawowo Sports.
Despite Our Saviour’s effort on the night and the quality of the
players, the athletic center dod not give Our Saviour credit dubbed the
league new comers a weak team.
“Winning a championships starts with such games. You can not start
losing games this early especially to a weak team. Our Saviour is not a
team that can match up Falcons in skill, talent and experience” the
disappointed center added.
However, Okall admitted the loss was a wake up call for the team going forward.
“This is a wake up call. We have been winning and winning andit’s now
time to back to the drawing board and put in more work” he concluded.
31 May 2015
UGANDA : We lost to a weak team – Falcons’ Okall
Falcons' Ariel Okall in action against Sharing earlier in the season
30 May 2015
UGANDA : KIU Titans beat Power
©Kawowo Sports / AISHA NAKATO
Despite not playing consistently against Power Norman scored 11 points
M: Tiger Head Power 69-77 KIU Titans
W: Magic Stormers 48-49 Gladiators
The KIU Titans passed their second test of the 2015 National Basketball League.
The kasanga based institutional side saw off last year’s finalists Tiger Head Power 77-69 on Friday night at Lugogo.
Chris Omanye scored team high 14 points to pace Titans (6-1) in a game that got off a mean first quarter that Power edged 12-11.
The game opened up in the second quarter but remained close and KIU won the frame 20-16 to go into halftime with a 3 point lead.
On return for the third period, Titans got off a 9-0 run to stretch the lead to double figures. The Titans did not sustain the double digit lead but were infront until the final buzzer.
Recruits, Geoffrey Soro and Norman Blick contributed had 11 points apiece for KIU and Francis Sokoroza contributed 13 points.
Sudi Ulanga who fought gallantly to bring Power back in the game in the final quarter netted game high 18 points in a losing effort. Micheal Makiadi and Joseph Ikong contributed 12 points each.
Meanwhile, guard, Joan Muchiruku scored 13 points and big, Sharine Karungi added 12 points as Gladiators edged Magic Stormers 49-48 for thei first win of the season.
Jackie Natokyo and Monica Apako had 15 and 13 points respectively for Stormers.
W: Magic Stormers 48-49 Gladiators
The KIU Titans passed their second test of the 2015 National Basketball League.
The kasanga based institutional side saw off last year’s finalists Tiger Head Power 77-69 on Friday night at Lugogo.
Chris Omanye scored team high 14 points to pace Titans (6-1) in a game that got off a mean first quarter that Power edged 12-11.
The game opened up in the second quarter but remained close and KIU won the frame 20-16 to go into halftime with a 3 point lead.
On return for the third period, Titans got off a 9-0 run to stretch the lead to double figures. The Titans did not sustain the double digit lead but were infront until the final buzzer.
Recruits, Geoffrey Soro and Norman Blick contributed had 11 points apiece for KIU and Francis Sokoroza contributed 13 points.
Sudi Ulanga who fought gallantly to bring Power back in the game in the final quarter netted game high 18 points in a losing effort. Micheal Makiadi and Joseph Ikong contributed 12 points each.
Meanwhile, guard, Joan Muchiruku scored 13 points and big, Sharine Karungi added 12 points as Gladiators edged Magic Stormers 49-48 for thei first win of the season.
Jackie Natokyo and Monica Apako had 15 and 13 points respectively for Stormers.
29 May 2015
TANZANIA : Dar, Tanga Flop in ECA Basketball Championship
TANZANIA teams continued to falter in the 16th edition of the East
and Central African Inter-cities Basketball Championship after Tanga and
Dar es Salaam lost their matches at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar
es Salaam.
Tanga went down fighting 61-81 against Qardo of Somalia in the men's category, while defending women's champions Nairobi launched their campaign on a sound note by thrashing hosts Dar es Salaam 83-42. The victory was the second for Qardo, a team formed by the Somalia Diaspora.
They outshined Dar City 85- 76 in their opening match on Wednesday. Nairobi dominated the game and led in all quarters. They were 44-19 up in the first quarter and were also ahead 50-20 at the breather.
The champions led 64-31 in the third and continued to prove too hot to handle in the last quarter. In other opening matches, Dar es Salaam lost 76 -61 to Kampala in the women's category, while Mbeya City fell 68-116 to men's defending champions Cairo.
Dar City consoled their compatriots after recording a massive 112- 46 victory against Mogadishu. Dar beat Mbeya 88-46 and Cairo took on Mogadishu in other matches played at the same venue on Thursday.
Today, Nairobi battle it out against Kampala and a win will put them in a good position to retain the title. The day will also see Dar City taking on Tanga in the men's category, Mogadishu lock horns with Mbeya, while Dar Stars have a date with Cairo. Men's teams are grouped in two pools.
Group A comprises Mogadishu, Dar Stars, Cairo and Mbeya and Group B has Tanga, Dar City and Qardo. There are only three teams in the women's category - Nairobi, Kampala and Dar es Salaam.
The five-day championship is sponsored by Azam Media Group. Meanwhile, Mwanza Regional Basketball Association (MRBA) Chairman Juvenile Kaiza has said financial constraints led to their failure to participate in the championship, reports ALEXANDER SANGA. He also said they received an invitation to participate in the tourney very late.
"We received the letter on April 28 and we didn't have enough time to prepare our players most of whom are university students and others are workers who are very busy," Kaiza said.
MRBA needed 8m/- to prepare the regional team, Mwanza Heroes, who last participated in the regional event in Nairobi in 2012. Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) Assistant Secretary General Michael Mwita confirmed Mwanza have failed to field a team.
He advised MRBA to seek financial assistance from stakeholders like Mbeya who have been supported by the Municipal Council and Boda- Boda drivers. Mwita added that this is not the first time Mwanza are skipping basketball tournaments.
They missed out on last year's Taifa Cup, Women's Cup and Inter-city competitions. He said Rwanda and Sudan also failed to participate this year because of conflict in Burundi and Al-Shaabab threat.
"Rwanda usually use road transport from Kigali to Tanzania, but they failed to pass through Burundi where there is turmoil. The same applies to Sudan who fear Al-Shabaab," he said.
The Inter-cities quarterfinals will be held tomorrow, the semi-finals are set for Saturday and the final takes place on Sunday.
Tanga went down fighting 61-81 against Qardo of Somalia in the men's category, while defending women's champions Nairobi launched their campaign on a sound note by thrashing hosts Dar es Salaam 83-42. The victory was the second for Qardo, a team formed by the Somalia Diaspora.
They outshined Dar City 85- 76 in their opening match on Wednesday. Nairobi dominated the game and led in all quarters. They were 44-19 up in the first quarter and were also ahead 50-20 at the breather.
The champions led 64-31 in the third and continued to prove too hot to handle in the last quarter. In other opening matches, Dar es Salaam lost 76 -61 to Kampala in the women's category, while Mbeya City fell 68-116 to men's defending champions Cairo.
Dar City consoled their compatriots after recording a massive 112- 46 victory against Mogadishu. Dar beat Mbeya 88-46 and Cairo took on Mogadishu in other matches played at the same venue on Thursday.
Today, Nairobi battle it out against Kampala and a win will put them in a good position to retain the title. The day will also see Dar City taking on Tanga in the men's category, Mogadishu lock horns with Mbeya, while Dar Stars have a date with Cairo. Men's teams are grouped in two pools.
Group A comprises Mogadishu, Dar Stars, Cairo and Mbeya and Group B has Tanga, Dar City and Qardo. There are only three teams in the women's category - Nairobi, Kampala and Dar es Salaam.
The five-day championship is sponsored by Azam Media Group. Meanwhile, Mwanza Regional Basketball Association (MRBA) Chairman Juvenile Kaiza has said financial constraints led to their failure to participate in the championship, reports ALEXANDER SANGA. He also said they received an invitation to participate in the tourney very late.
"We received the letter on April 28 and we didn't have enough time to prepare our players most of whom are university students and others are workers who are very busy," Kaiza said.
MRBA needed 8m/- to prepare the regional team, Mwanza Heroes, who last participated in the regional event in Nairobi in 2012. Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) Assistant Secretary General Michael Mwita confirmed Mwanza have failed to field a team.
He advised MRBA to seek financial assistance from stakeholders like Mbeya who have been supported by the Municipal Council and Boda- Boda drivers. Mwita added that this is not the first time Mwanza are skipping basketball tournaments.
They missed out on last year's Taifa Cup, Women's Cup and Inter-city competitions. He said Rwanda and Sudan also failed to participate this year because of conflict in Burundi and Al-Shaabab threat.
"Rwanda usually use road transport from Kigali to Tanzania, but they failed to pass through Burundi where there is turmoil. The same applies to Sudan who fear Al-Shabaab," he said.
The Inter-cities quarterfinals will be held tomorrow, the semi-finals are set for Saturday and the final takes place on Sunday.
UGANDA : Worrying Times for Warriors and Power
analysis
By John Vianney NsimbeThe national
basketball league is still in its early days but perennial contenders
Tiger Head Power and Stanbic Warriors are already showing struggles,
writes JOHN VIANNEY NSIMBE.When Ivan Enabu and Ronnie Kasewu, two of Warriors' best players, score four and zero points respectively in a game, then it is clear catastrophe has befallen basketball. It happened in their team's fifth league fixture, a 64-79 loss to Tiger Head Power.
Even then, Power aren't faring any better and some observers are discounting the two giants' possibilities of putting up a real title challenge to match the likes of City Oilers, KIU Titans and Falcons. But how plausible that argument is will be put to the test when Power face KIU this Friday in the League.
Warriors have already lost to City Oilers and Falcons. Meanwhile, Power are yet to play Falcons and City Oilers, as most of their wins have come against the minnows to be regarded highly thus far.
Yet to Power forward, Paul Mwaka, doubters will eat their words. "If it wasn't for the black-out on the opening day of the league, we would have defeated City Oilers, the defending champions." Well, Power have to contend with a replay against City Oilers to prove their point.
RWANDA : U-16 teams will benefit senior teams
Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA)
president Desire Mugwiza believes that featuring U-16 teams in both the
boys’ and girls’ categories at the upcoming FIBA Africa Zone V U-16
qualifying tournament this weekend will benefit the senior national team
in three years time.
Rwanda is hosting this year’s event in Kigali but only Ethiopia will compete in the boys’ category while no other country will turn up in the girls’ category after all the other nine member countries confirmed that they will not take part in the tournament because they do not have U-16 teams.
“We are preparing the U-16 teams because it is these same players who will play in the FIBA Africa U-18 tournaments next year. We shall call up some 17 year olds for the U-18 tournament, and in the long run, they will play for the senior national team,” explained Mugwiza.
After this weekend’s event, the U-16 national team coaches will organize training sessions for these players in the holidays. Mugwiza said, “We are in the process of development. We want them to attain the basic basketball skills that will help them become better players.”
Should the Rwanda U-16 boys defeat Ethiopia this weekend, they will qualify for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 tournament in July in Mali. Meanwhile, the Rwandan girls have already qualified for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament set for July 16-24 in Madagascar.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
Rwanda is hosting this year’s event in Kigali but only Ethiopia will compete in the boys’ category while no other country will turn up in the girls’ category after all the other nine member countries confirmed that they will not take part in the tournament because they do not have U-16 teams.
“We are preparing the U-16 teams because it is these same players who will play in the FIBA Africa U-18 tournaments next year. We shall call up some 17 year olds for the U-18 tournament, and in the long run, they will play for the senior national team,” explained Mugwiza.
After this weekend’s event, the U-16 national team coaches will organize training sessions for these players in the holidays. Mugwiza said, “We are in the process of development. We want them to attain the basic basketball skills that will help them become better players.”
Should the Rwanda U-16 boys defeat Ethiopia this weekend, they will qualify for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 tournament in July in Mali. Meanwhile, the Rwandan girls have already qualified for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament set for July 16-24 in Madagascar.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
28 May 2015
BOTTSWANA : Basketball Girls Target Zimbabwe
By Jeremiah Sejabosigo
Gaborone — The national Under 16 women's basketball team is capable of defeating Zimbabwe in an Afrobasket qualifier tomorrow (May 28).
The two teams clash in the FIBA Africa Zone VI U-16 Afrobasket qualifiers at the Botswana National Youth Centre (BNYC) multi-purpose hall at 2pm with Botswana looking to redeem its pride after being outclassed 19-68 by South Africa on Tuesday.
Team coach, Olebile Kepaletswe, said they were familiar with Zimbabwe's style of play, having faced them at the COSASSA Games in Zambia last year.
"Some of our players played against them last year in Zambia. So we know how they play and I believe we can get something our game with them," he said.
Botswana could not cope with the South Africans' crispy passing movements and accurate shooting as they fell to an opening day defeat. Power forward, Thandiwe Mqanda and point guard Siyamthanda Sigwela were brilliant as South Africa opened a 16-4 lead in the first quarter.
Despite all the committed efforts by the local girls, the gap between the two teams was evident and the visitors effectively wrapped the match as a contest in the second quarter.
They led 35-10 at the break, and then continued with their onslaught in the second half to ultimately run off comfortable winners.
Kepaletswe said the loss against South Africa was understandable because South Africa has good development structures compared to Botswana. "Our performance against South Africa was okay. Our kids are still young and learning, so we don't have to put them under pressure," he said.
The coach pointed out that their biggest weakness against South Africa was reaction speed and inaccurate shooting.
"We have to improve in the conversion of our chances. Our defence was okay but our problem was converting chances." Meanwhile, the boys under-16 team also suffered a crushing 120-16 defeat at the hands of South Africa in their opening match on Tuesday.
They would also like to redeem themselves when they face Zimbabwe today at 4pm. Six countries, Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique and Angola are taking part in the qualifiers.
The games would finish on Saturday and winners of the girls and boys sections would qualify for the Afrobaskeball finals.
Source : BOPA
Gaborone — The national Under 16 women's basketball team is capable of defeating Zimbabwe in an Afrobasket qualifier tomorrow (May 28).
The two teams clash in the FIBA Africa Zone VI U-16 Afrobasket qualifiers at the Botswana National Youth Centre (BNYC) multi-purpose hall at 2pm with Botswana looking to redeem its pride after being outclassed 19-68 by South Africa on Tuesday.
Team coach, Olebile Kepaletswe, said they were familiar with Zimbabwe's style of play, having faced them at the COSASSA Games in Zambia last year.
"Some of our players played against them last year in Zambia. So we know how they play and I believe we can get something our game with them," he said.
Botswana could not cope with the South Africans' crispy passing movements and accurate shooting as they fell to an opening day defeat. Power forward, Thandiwe Mqanda and point guard Siyamthanda Sigwela were brilliant as South Africa opened a 16-4 lead in the first quarter.
Despite all the committed efforts by the local girls, the gap between the two teams was evident and the visitors effectively wrapped the match as a contest in the second quarter.
They led 35-10 at the break, and then continued with their onslaught in the second half to ultimately run off comfortable winners.
Kepaletswe said the loss against South Africa was understandable because South Africa has good development structures compared to Botswana. "Our performance against South Africa was okay. Our kids are still young and learning, so we don't have to put them under pressure," he said.
The coach pointed out that their biggest weakness against South Africa was reaction speed and inaccurate shooting.
"We have to improve in the conversion of our chances. Our defence was okay but our problem was converting chances." Meanwhile, the boys under-16 team also suffered a crushing 120-16 defeat at the hands of South Africa in their opening match on Tuesday.
They would also like to redeem themselves when they face Zimbabwe today at 4pm. Six countries, Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique and Angola are taking part in the qualifiers.
The games would finish on Saturday and winners of the girls and boys sections would qualify for the Afrobaskeball finals.
Source : BOPA
RWANDA : IPRC-Kigali, Patriots keen on playoffs appearance
Patriots' point guard Patrick Habiyambere (R) guards Didier Gahorani of UGB earlier this season at KIST. (File)
IPRC-Kigali is keen on winning their remaining four league matches
which could help them qualify for the playoffs which commence next
month.The newcomers, who face regular season winners Espoir on Saturday, are currently in fifth position with 24 points, two behind fourth placed Patriots who are also eyeing a top four finish.
IPRC Kigali head coach Albert Buhake said, “We want to win this game [Espoir] and it will help us to make it to the top four, but we have other games which we will have to win against Patriots, IPRC-South and Circle Sportif de Kigali (CSK). Those are important games and if we manage to win all of them, we will make it to the top four.”
Buhake further added that, “Our aim is to play in playoffs and we shall remain focused on our target. We know it will be tough but we are ready. We want to win the game against Espoir just as we did in the first leg [73-65].”
According to Buhake, the Kicukiro-based side is pursuing a complaint with the Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) following an incident against Rusizi, where the latter featured a Congolese player, using the Rwandan name ‘Emmanuel Bakundukize’.
IPRC Kigali has also complained to FERWABA to about their former player Abdallatif Nsengiyumva who joined APR at the beginning of the season but the army side is yet paid to pay the transfer fee worth Rwf 500,000.
According to Buhake, the agreement was that Nsengiyumva does not play for APR against IPRC Kigali if they have not settled the transfer but APR went ahead to feature him despite not meeting the agreement. Buhake wants FERWABA to consider that fixture a forfeit. He said, “If the federation [FERWABA] does everything with fairness, we will qualify for the playoffs.”
Meanwhile, fourth-placed Patriots head coach Cyrille Kalima is confident that if they win Saturday’s game against APR, they could be second on the table standings.
“We have three games remaining but to beat APR will help us to be in second position”, mentioned Kalima who believes that his side will beat University of Rwanda and 30 Plus.
Regular season champions Espoir have already qualified for the playoffs.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
27 May 2015
TANZANIA : Zanzibar Basketball League Starts Monday
By Mwajuma Juma
Zanzibar — Zanzibar basketball league which will pit teams from Unguja and Pemba is set to begin at the Gymkhana Club courts here on Monday.
Speaking to journalists, Acting Secretary General of the Zanzibar Basketball Association, Abdallah Hassan Ali, said the annual league will draw together a total of 12 men and ladies teams.
Ali said out of the 12 teams, five will be ladies teams while remaining seven will be men teams. He further said that out of the four teams that will compete in the league from Pemba island, three are men's teams.
He mentioned men teams from Pemba as Tonado, Califonia all from Chake and Clokers from Mkoani, while Chake Stars is the only ladies team from Pemba.
For Unguja, men's teams are Stone Town, Rangers, Polisi and Nyuki, while ladies teams are African Magic, JKU, Mafunzo and New West.
Hassan said that so far preparations for staging the league are going on well; saying glittering trophies are awaiting winners in both categories.
He said talks are ongoing with Zanlink to sponsor the league. "We are optimistic that the deal will go through and this year's event will be a great success," he said.
Zanzibar — Zanzibar basketball league which will pit teams from Unguja and Pemba is set to begin at the Gymkhana Club courts here on Monday.
Speaking to journalists, Acting Secretary General of the Zanzibar Basketball Association, Abdallah Hassan Ali, said the annual league will draw together a total of 12 men and ladies teams.
Ali said out of the 12 teams, five will be ladies teams while remaining seven will be men teams. He further said that out of the four teams that will compete in the league from Pemba island, three are men's teams.
He mentioned men teams from Pemba as Tonado, Califonia all from Chake and Clokers from Mkoani, while Chake Stars is the only ladies team from Pemba.
For Unguja, men's teams are Stone Town, Rangers, Polisi and Nyuki, while ladies teams are African Magic, JKU, Mafunzo and New West.
Hassan said that so far preparations for staging the league are going on well; saying glittering trophies are awaiting winners in both categories.
He said talks are ongoing with Zanlink to sponsor the league. "We are optimistic that the deal will go through and this year's event will be a great success," he said.
KENYA : Nairobi Side Set for Inter-Cities Tourney in Dar
LAST year's basketball Premier League Most Valuable Player Sarah Chan
leads a strong Nairobi side to the East and Central Africa Inter Cities
Championships, as they seek to defend the title starting tomorrow in
Dar-es-Salaam.
Chan will team up with her United States International University team-mates Cynthia Irankunda and Georgia Otieno to form a devastating trio that blew off reigning champions Kenya Ports Authority in the last year's play-off finals to win their first crown.
Completing the 'Flames' call up include the hard running Melissa Akinyi, whose last gasp basket ensured Nairobi won their 12th trophy out of 16 tries.
From Co-op Bank, there is Belinda Okoth, Seline Okumu and Bridgit Nanzala of Ulinzi while Equity have Samba Mjomba, Eleanor Musundi and Indasi.
Debbie Obunga, who plays for the provisional side, Zetech University also made the team that will have to fight it out with Kampala and host city Dar.
Teams from Somalia, Southern Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Eritrea and host Tanzania have already confirmed participation in the five-day event to be staged at the National Stadium. Coach Sylvia Kamau Ochola yesterday exuded confidence that they will prevail again.
Chan will team up with her United States International University team-mates Cynthia Irankunda and Georgia Otieno to form a devastating trio that blew off reigning champions Kenya Ports Authority in the last year's play-off finals to win their first crown.
Completing the 'Flames' call up include the hard running Melissa Akinyi, whose last gasp basket ensured Nairobi won their 12th trophy out of 16 tries.
From Co-op Bank, there is Belinda Okoth, Seline Okumu and Bridgit Nanzala of Ulinzi while Equity have Samba Mjomba, Eleanor Musundi and Indasi.
Debbie Obunga, who plays for the provisional side, Zetech University also made the team that will have to fight it out with Kampala and host city Dar.
Teams from Somalia, Southern Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Eritrea and host Tanzania have already confirmed participation in the five-day event to be staged at the National Stadium. Coach Sylvia Kamau Ochola yesterday exuded confidence that they will prevail again.
UGANDA : It’s son against father as Our Saviour face Falcons
©Kawowo Sports / AISHA NAKATO
Steven Omony will lead Falcons
At YMCA:
Magic Stormers Vs Gladiators 6:30pm
Our Saviour Vs StarTimes Falcons 8:30pm
StarTimes Falcons is the only unbeaten side in the National Basketball League. They have swept through their first six fixtures dispatching defending champions City Oilers in the process.
The record champions’ next apponents are league freshers, Our Saviour – a side with nearly half the team former Falcon’s players.
Kenyan duo of Ariel Okall and Joseph Ouma along with Ceasar Kizito and Derrick Mbusi have solidified Falcons (6-0) this season. Along with the core of Steven Omony, Peter Elungant and Jonah Mukwaba as well as vets Isaac Afidra and David Kiberu, Falcons have too much for Our Saviour.
Shooting guard, Syrus Kiviiri who poured season high 30 points on Diamonds in the last game is doubtful but hopeful he will be able to face his former side.
Despite having a good roster, Our Saviour’s only wins of the season have come against Diamonds and Charging Rhinos while losing to Ndejje, Power, UCU and KIU. Sunday Okot and John Otto have failed to get David Marial scoring.
Our Saviour (2-4) will look to forward, James Deng as they try to get a win off a big side.
Meanwhile, in the women's division, Gladiators (0-5) will face Magic Stormers. Stormers (2-3) who are play off second round regulars will be hoping to add a win against the struggling promoted side that just cant win a game.
Magic Stormers Vs Gladiators 6:30pm
Our Saviour Vs StarTimes Falcons 8:30pm
StarTimes Falcons is the only unbeaten side in the National Basketball League. They have swept through their first six fixtures dispatching defending champions City Oilers in the process.
The record champions’ next apponents are league freshers, Our Saviour – a side with nearly half the team former Falcon’s players.
Kenyan duo of Ariel Okall and Joseph Ouma along with Ceasar Kizito and Derrick Mbusi have solidified Falcons (6-0) this season. Along with the core of Steven Omony, Peter Elungant and Jonah Mukwaba as well as vets Isaac Afidra and David Kiberu, Falcons have too much for Our Saviour.
Shooting guard, Syrus Kiviiri who poured season high 30 points on Diamonds in the last game is doubtful but hopeful he will be able to face his former side.
Despite having a good roster, Our Saviour’s only wins of the season have come against Diamonds and Charging Rhinos while losing to Ndejje, Power, UCU and KIU. Sunday Okot and John Otto have failed to get David Marial scoring.
Our Saviour (2-4) will look to forward, James Deng as they try to get a win off a big side.
Meanwhile, in the women's division, Gladiators (0-5) will face Magic Stormers. Stormers (2-3) who are play off second round regulars will be hoping to add a win against the struggling promoted side that just cant win a game.
RWANDA . U16 Basketball: Buhake confident despite losing two games
Rwanda U.16 boys’ basketball national team head coach Albert Buhake is
confident that his side will qualify for the FIBA Afro basketball U-16
tournament which is slated for July in Mali.
Buhake whose side lost two friendly games against PJB from Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on the weekend 80-63 and 78-49, will play yet another friendly match against local side Hoops this evening at Petit stade.
“We need to play more games because we want to see the young players improving. We want to qualify for Afrobasket and our players are ready to give their best. I am confident that my team can achieve this. Without sounding overconfident, I believe we will win and qualify because we have prepared well. We have very good young players, who know what it takes to be successful so I have confidence in them,” added Buhake.
Buhake noted that during friendlies, his team played against players who were above the age of
16, and the games helped him to correct some mistakes and yet the results weren’t bad because the boys put in their best efforts.
Rwanda U-16 boys will face Ethiopia twice on May 30-31 at Petit Stade and the winner will qualify for the Mali event. The Rwandan girls have already qualified for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament set for July 16-24 in Madagascar.
Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) confirmed that Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda will not participate in the tournament because they do not have players in the U-16 category.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
Buhake whose side lost two friendly games against PJB from Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on the weekend 80-63 and 78-49, will play yet another friendly match against local side Hoops this evening at Petit stade.
“We need to play more games because we want to see the young players improving. We want to qualify for Afrobasket and our players are ready to give their best. I am confident that my team can achieve this. Without sounding overconfident, I believe we will win and qualify because we have prepared well. We have very good young players, who know what it takes to be successful so I have confidence in them,” added Buhake.
Buhake noted that during friendlies, his team played against players who were above the age of
16, and the games helped him to correct some mistakes and yet the results weren’t bad because the boys put in their best efforts.
Rwanda U-16 boys will face Ethiopia twice on May 30-31 at Petit Stade and the winner will qualify for the Mali event. The Rwandan girls have already qualified for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament set for July 16-24 in Madagascar.
Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) confirmed that Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda will not participate in the tournament because they do not have players in the U-16 category.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
25 May 2015
TANZANIA : Stone Town, African Magic Win Zanzibar Basketball Titles
By Mwajuma Juma
Zanzibar — StoneTown were crowned new men's basketball champions of Unguja Zone after overcoming Polisi 73-68 as the championship reached its climax at Maisara court on Saturday evening.
African Magic won the women's league with JKU settling in second place. The closely-battled final encounter that kicked off at 4pm attracted a sizeable crowd that was treated to a rousing show, as both sides tried their best to emerge victorious.
Polisi, who were the defending champions, however, could not match their usual prowess in the closing game against a spirited Stone Town team.
The game was graced by Kikwajuni's Representative Mahmoud Mussa, who presented the winners with awards. Also awarded were the best and most disciplined players. Champions Stone Town demonstrated their quest for the trophy from the first whistle.
They took a massive 24-14 lead after the opening quarter and went for the breather leading 42-35. Stone Town maintained their lead in the third quarter which finished 62-49 in their favour.
Abdallah Ramadhan led Stone Town's assault after notching 20 points, while Said Marine contributed 19 with Juma Mbae also managing double digits after scoring 14 points.
Abbas Muhidin was Polisi's and the game's top scorer with 27 points as Saleh Abbas scored 18. Rangers finished second in the men's category.
Stone Town's Ramadhani and Aisha Ahmed of African Magic were voted best players of the tournament and the most disciplined player award went to Abdulwahab Maj-ham of Mbuyuni.
They were presented with trophies and 30,000/- each. The winners in both categories were awarded a trophy and 200,000/-, while the runners-up got a trophy and 100,000/-.
The league brought together 14 teams. Four teams in each category qualified for the Zanzibar league. The men's teams are Stone Town, Rangers, Polisi and Nyuki and women's sides are African Magic, JKU, Mafunzo and New West.
Zanzibar — StoneTown were crowned new men's basketball champions of Unguja Zone after overcoming Polisi 73-68 as the championship reached its climax at Maisara court on Saturday evening.
African Magic won the women's league with JKU settling in second place. The closely-battled final encounter that kicked off at 4pm attracted a sizeable crowd that was treated to a rousing show, as both sides tried their best to emerge victorious.
Polisi, who were the defending champions, however, could not match their usual prowess in the closing game against a spirited Stone Town team.
The game was graced by Kikwajuni's Representative Mahmoud Mussa, who presented the winners with awards. Also awarded were the best and most disciplined players. Champions Stone Town demonstrated their quest for the trophy from the first whistle.
They took a massive 24-14 lead after the opening quarter and went for the breather leading 42-35. Stone Town maintained their lead in the third quarter which finished 62-49 in their favour.
Abdallah Ramadhan led Stone Town's assault after notching 20 points, while Said Marine contributed 19 with Juma Mbae also managing double digits after scoring 14 points.
Abbas Muhidin was Polisi's and the game's top scorer with 27 points as Saleh Abbas scored 18. Rangers finished second in the men's category.
Stone Town's Ramadhani and Aisha Ahmed of African Magic were voted best players of the tournament and the most disciplined player award went to Abdulwahab Maj-ham of Mbuyuni.
They were presented with trophies and 30,000/- each. The winners in both categories were awarded a trophy and 200,000/-, while the runners-up got a trophy and 100,000/-.
The league brought together 14 teams. Four teams in each category qualified for the Zanzibar league. The men's teams are Stone Town, Rangers, Polisi and Nyuki and women's sides are African Magic, JKU, Mafunzo and New West.
UGANDA : We are ready to challenge for the title – Vickie Ntale
©Kawowo Sports / AISHA NAKATO
A1 Challenge's forward Vickie Ntale (R) says they are ready to challenge for National Basketball League glory
It feels like forever since A1 Challenge last played at the
championship round of the National Basketball League but it has only
been four years.
A1 haven't been at the finals since 2010 when they got swept by UCU Lady Canons and their captain Vickie Ntale believes its about time for A1 Challenge to return to the finals.
“We are basically looking at getting back to where the original A1 Challenge were” Ntale told Kawowo Sports. “We don't underestimate any team we play and play every game like it is a final. We want to start now and get ready for the final” she added.
A1 acquired two very good distance shooters in Moreen Amoding and Winnie Anyango. With their bigs Liz Bazira and Vickie Ondiso returning to fitness may take A1’s challenge a notch higher this season.
“We have plays for both (Amoding and Anyango) to get us those shots depending on the defense the other team is giving us. All other guards are working on their shots but we have to get our best shooters working”
“Liz (Bazira) and Betty (Ondiso) are trying to work on their fitness and trying to get back on the team. Once they are fit, we will have a very good big man team inside there”
Despite having a good team, not only do KCCA Leopards and UCU Lady Canons who have squarely shared the last four championships stand in A1’s way, team chemistry also does.
“We have got a big team now. We have the numbers on the team and one of our greatest problems is gelling on court but with more games we have as a team we will gel better” she says. A1 Challenge has already lost to Leopards (twice) and Lady Canons and inconsistency defines the three losses. After matching KCCA in the season opener before falling by 3 points, A1 couldn’t do the same in their second meeting with KCCA and UCU.
Ntale admits her team’s inconsistency but says it’s something they are working hard to walk away from.
“We are looking at walking away from that (inconsistency). We know that’s one of our challenges and we are working hard to overcome it”
The forward was not shy to make the call that A1 Challenge will not only make the finals but win the championship.
“We are making it to the finals this year. We can win this, i believe we can. It wont be easy but with hard work we will. We are doing it For the Love and the Challenge”
A1 haven't been at the finals since 2010 when they got swept by UCU Lady Canons and their captain Vickie Ntale believes its about time for A1 Challenge to return to the finals.
“We are basically looking at getting back to where the original A1 Challenge were” Ntale told Kawowo Sports. “We don't underestimate any team we play and play every game like it is a final. We want to start now and get ready for the final” she added.
A1 acquired two very good distance shooters in Moreen Amoding and Winnie Anyango. With their bigs Liz Bazira and Vickie Ondiso returning to fitness may take A1’s challenge a notch higher this season.
“We have plays for both (Amoding and Anyango) to get us those shots depending on the defense the other team is giving us. All other guards are working on their shots but we have to get our best shooters working”
“Liz (Bazira) and Betty (Ondiso) are trying to work on their fitness and trying to get back on the team. Once they are fit, we will have a very good big man team inside there”
Despite having a good team, not only do KCCA Leopards and UCU Lady Canons who have squarely shared the last four championships stand in A1’s way, team chemistry also does.
“We have got a big team now. We have the numbers on the team and one of our greatest problems is gelling on court but with more games we have as a team we will gel better” she says. A1 Challenge has already lost to Leopards (twice) and Lady Canons and inconsistency defines the three losses. After matching KCCA in the season opener before falling by 3 points, A1 couldn’t do the same in their second meeting with KCCA and UCU.
Ntale admits her team’s inconsistency but says it’s something they are working hard to walk away from.
“We are looking at walking away from that (inconsistency). We know that’s one of our challenges and we are working hard to overcome it”
The forward was not shy to make the call that A1 Challenge will not only make the finals but win the championship.
“We are making it to the finals this year. We can win this, i believe we can. It wont be easy but with hard work we will. We are doing it For the Love and the Challenge”
RWANDA : APR eye second position in hoops league
Today
UR-CASS vs CSK 11am
IPRC-Kigali vs APR 2pm
Sunday
Rusizi vs Espoir 9am
UR-CoE vs UR-CASS 11am
Women
UR-CASS vs The Hoops 12pm
Ubumwe vs APR 2pm
APR Basketball Club are keen on taking second spot in the ongoing national basketball regular league after failing their bid to wrestle the title from rivals, Espoir.
Jean Bahufite’s Espoir secured their fourth consecutive league title last weekend after beating the military side 68-48.
The seven-time champions APR have a stiff challenge to overcome this afternoon when they face Albert Buhake’s IPRC- Kigali at NPC gymnasium at 2pm and APR technician Cliff Owuor believes his boys will prevail.
Apart from today’s hurdle, the black-and-white outfit have league matches against hopefuls Patriots and struggling 30-plus before the league winds up early next month.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
UR-CASS vs CSK 11am
IPRC-Kigali vs APR 2pm
Sunday
Rusizi vs Espoir 9am
UR-CoE vs UR-CASS 11am
Women
UR-CASS vs The Hoops 12pm
Ubumwe vs APR 2pm
APR Basketball Club are keen on taking second spot in the ongoing national basketball regular league after failing their bid to wrestle the title from rivals, Espoir.
Jean Bahufite’s Espoir secured their fourth consecutive league title last weekend after beating the military side 68-48.
The seven-time champions APR have a stiff challenge to overcome this afternoon when they face Albert Buhake’s IPRC- Kigali at NPC gymnasium at 2pm and APR technician Cliff Owuor believes his boys will prevail.
Apart from today’s hurdle, the black-and-white outfit have league matches against hopefuls Patriots and struggling 30-plus before the league winds up early next month.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
24 May 2015
KENYA : Nson helps Aviation college notch first season win
Nairobi Aviation's Job Byron in a past match.(Photo:SNA File)
Abel Nson was the catalyst that
Nairobi Aviation College needed to end their winless run this season,
his arrival inspiring the students to a 82-63 win over Kenya Airports
Authority (KAA) on Sunday.
The men’s premier league game played at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium saw Aviation take a deserved 38-28 lead at halftime.
The much-travelled Nson who has previously played for Kenya Ports Authority, Co-operative Bank, Blazers and United States International University- Africa made a surprise appearance for Aviation who have been struggling without a win.
In the first half, he made 12 attempts from the 3-point line scoring only two as he finished the half with 10 points. He added 19 more points in second half to top score with 29 including six 3-point shots from 21 attempts.
Nson was never substituted playing the entire forty minutes as he grabbed three rebounds, dished out five assists and made one steal. Another veteran Ben Oluoch went to halftime with 20 points finishing the game with 27 including four 3-pointers from five attempts.
He played for 39:10 grabbing two rebounds, six assists and one steal. KAA began on the strong footing winning first quarter 19-13 as Aviation fought back hard in the second with a 25-9 win.
Third quarter was won by Aviation 22-9 and fourth went to KAA on a 26-22 score.
Top scorer for KAA was Billy Ongute with 21 points, 9 coming off the 3-point line. Aviation scored 10 points from free shots and 33 from the 3-point line while KAA had 16 points from the free-throw line and 15 from the arc.
Terror edge Mennonite
University of Nairobi’s Terrorist took its record to 3-3 after winning their third game against Mennonite 89-73. The win underlined Terror’s dominance after leading by 17 points inside third quarter.
Terror enjoyed a 45-34 halftime lead after winning first two quarters 20-18 and 25-16 respectively. Mennonite won the third 27-22 and Terror the fourth 22-13.
From free shots, Terror scored 13 points and 30 from the arc while Mennonite made seven 3-pointers and 18 free shots. William Mayiel hit seven 3-point shots to top score for Terror with game high 33 points while Collins Ochieng added 21.
Felix Odhiambo scored 23 for Mennonite and Moses Koome added 15. In women premier league, Ulinzi Blades were too strong for Kenyatta University Oryx winning 96-34.
Bridgit Nanzala scored 21 points for Ulinzi, grabbed six rebounds, two assists and two steals while Jane Ouko added 16 points, grabbed three rebounds, dished out one assist and made two steals. Berine Akoth was Oryx top scorer with 10 points.
Ulinzi won opening quarters 28-5 and 28-4 to lead 56-9 at halftime. Oryx won third quarter 14-9 but Ulinzi overpowered them in the fourth with a 31-11 score.
The soldiers made 14 free shots and scored 30 points from the arc while Oryx had 10 points coming from free shots and six from the arc. MKU Thika won one game and lost one in division one this weekend.
On Saturday, they beat Don Bosco 69-58 but lost 54-67 to Africa Nazarene University (ANU) on Sunday.
Trailblazers narrowly beat Upper Hill 45-43 while 4 Christ won 56-48 against Baraka Xtreme.
Sunday Results: Ulinzi Blades 96 KU Oryx 34, Nairobi Aviation College 82 KAA 63, UoN Terror 89 Mennonite 73, ANU 67 MKU Thika 54, Upper Hill 43 Trailblazers 45, Baraka Xtreme 48 4 Christ 56, MKU Thika 69 Don Bosco 58.
The men’s premier league game played at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium saw Aviation take a deserved 38-28 lead at halftime.
The much-travelled Nson who has previously played for Kenya Ports Authority, Co-operative Bank, Blazers and United States International University- Africa made a surprise appearance for Aviation who have been struggling without a win.
In the first half, he made 12 attempts from the 3-point line scoring only two as he finished the half with 10 points. He added 19 more points in second half to top score with 29 including six 3-point shots from 21 attempts.
Nson was never substituted playing the entire forty minutes as he grabbed three rebounds, dished out five assists and made one steal. Another veteran Ben Oluoch went to halftime with 20 points finishing the game with 27 including four 3-pointers from five attempts.
He played for 39:10 grabbing two rebounds, six assists and one steal. KAA began on the strong footing winning first quarter 19-13 as Aviation fought back hard in the second with a 25-9 win.
Third quarter was won by Aviation 22-9 and fourth went to KAA on a 26-22 score.
Top scorer for KAA was Billy Ongute with 21 points, 9 coming off the 3-point line. Aviation scored 10 points from free shots and 33 from the 3-point line while KAA had 16 points from the free-throw line and 15 from the arc.
Terror edge Mennonite
University of Nairobi’s Terrorist took its record to 3-3 after winning their third game against Mennonite 89-73. The win underlined Terror’s dominance after leading by 17 points inside third quarter.
Terror enjoyed a 45-34 halftime lead after winning first two quarters 20-18 and 25-16 respectively. Mennonite won the third 27-22 and Terror the fourth 22-13.
From free shots, Terror scored 13 points and 30 from the arc while Mennonite made seven 3-pointers and 18 free shots. William Mayiel hit seven 3-point shots to top score for Terror with game high 33 points while Collins Ochieng added 21.
Felix Odhiambo scored 23 for Mennonite and Moses Koome added 15. In women premier league, Ulinzi Blades were too strong for Kenyatta University Oryx winning 96-34.
Bridgit Nanzala scored 21 points for Ulinzi, grabbed six rebounds, two assists and two steals while Jane Ouko added 16 points, grabbed three rebounds, dished out one assist and made two steals. Berine Akoth was Oryx top scorer with 10 points.
Ulinzi won opening quarters 28-5 and 28-4 to lead 56-9 at halftime. Oryx won third quarter 14-9 but Ulinzi overpowered them in the fourth with a 31-11 score.
The soldiers made 14 free shots and scored 30 points from the arc while Oryx had 10 points coming from free shots and six from the arc. MKU Thika won one game and lost one in division one this weekend.
On Saturday, they beat Don Bosco 69-58 but lost 54-67 to Africa Nazarene University (ANU) on Sunday.
Trailblazers narrowly beat Upper Hill 45-43 while 4 Christ won 56-48 against Baraka Xtreme.
Sunday Results: Ulinzi Blades 96 KU Oryx 34, Nairobi Aviation College 82 KAA 63, UoN Terror 89 Mennonite 73, ANU 67 MKU Thika 54, Upper Hill 43 Trailblazers 45, Baraka Xtreme 48 4 Christ 56, MKU Thika 69 Don Bosco 58.
KENYA : KCA-U and Lions register first league wins
Kenya College of Accountancy-
University (KCA-U) and Lions finally registered their first wins in the
women and men premier leagues on saturday respectively.
After four winless games each, KCA-U beat Mennonite 41-29 on Saturday at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium while Lions won 61-47 away to Nakuru Club.
Lions head coach Juma Ikapian attributed the victory to a change in their training, an extra session every week.
“The game was tough from the start but we struggled to the end with our defense stepping up well. After previous losses, we took time to work on our mistakes and coordination between players was good.”
For KCA-U, the win was long overdue and they dominated Mennonite in the first three quarters winning 8-7, 15-10 and 10-3. Mennonite won the fourth 9-8.
“We lost nine players immediately the season began which was a huge setback to our plans. I have recruited but some of the new players have never been coached making it difficult to handle them,” head coach Victor Ochieng said.
“These conferences have come with big breaks between games. I utilized that since our last game with KPA by taking the players through friendlies just to make them accustomed to winning and it has worked.”
Celestine Isabwa scored 12 points for KCA-U who had four points from free shots and one 3-point shot. Rachael Kibwana had a game high 20 points for Mennonite, scoring four in first quarter, six in second quarter, three in third quarter and seven in the fourth.
She grabbed four rebounds and one steal. Mennonite scored five points from free shots and six from the arc. Strathmore University taught Sprite Storms some basketball lessons with a 51-25 win. Pauline Oketch, Mollette Achieng and Rachael Opinya scored 12, 10 and 8 points respectively for Strathmore.
Faustin Mandu and Angela Luchivya top scored for Storms with 8 points each as the team scored nine free shots and made two 3-pointers.
Strathmore had six of their points coming off the free-throw line and made one 3-point shot.
USIU stop Eagles
Defending champions United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) showed their true character to beat Eagle Wings 79-44.
From the onset, a weakened Eagles appeared to be in for a surprise win after taking a slim 15-14 win in first quarter. With only Sarah Chan and Cynthia Irankunda the only foreign players out of six for USIU-A making their team list as per new rules, the students seemed to struggle allowing Eagles to lead 11-4 inside six minutes of the quarter.
When the second quarter started, Chan scored a quick basket for the lead to change hands at 16-15 in favour of USIU-A.
The students dictated pace until after four minutes of play when both teams tied at 21-all. Lucy Machuma managed to score a basket for Eagles who then went for close to ten minutes without scoring.
USIU-A won the quarter 19-8 for a 33-23 halftime lead. Until the fourth minute of third quarter, Eagles had not scored and USIU-A led 45-23 before winning the quarter 25-12. A 21-9 score in the fourth quarter sealed the all-important win for the students.
Sarah Chan proved her supremo scoring a game high 38 points, grabbed 17 rebounds and two blocks for the winners. Eunice Ouma scored 16 points for Eagles and grabbed 4 rebounds while Dorah Ouko added 11 points and grabbed 3 rebounds. USIU-A enjoyed the biggest lead of 35 points against 8 for Eagles, lead changed hands for three times and game was tied thrice.
The students bench proved too powerful producing 19 points against Eagles 3 while USIU-A scored 40 points in the paint against 24 for Eagles. 21 points for USIU-A came from second chances against 2 for Eagles while fast break points were 13 for the students and 12 for Eagles.
In 17 attempts from the free-throw line, USIU-A scored five and shot 34% from the arc at 10/29. Eagles attempted 14 times at the free-throw line scoring nine and shot 21% from the 3-point line at 3/14.
The only men premier league game played in Nairobi had Equity Bank beat Strathmore University 69-47. The biggest scoring run for Equity was 12-0 against 7-0 for Strathmore.
The students were outplayed only leading for 00:19 as the bankers commanded a 35:46 lead time. Equity won all quarters 14-10, 13-11, 16-12 and 26-13 respectively.
The lead in this game changed sides only twice while both teams were tied five times. Equity had the biggest lead of 26 points, making 6 shots out of 15 attempts at the arc and scored 15 free shots from 24 attempts.
Strathmore had only one 3-point shot made from nine attempts and scored 16 free shots out of 36 attempts.
Paul Nyakundi top scored for Equity with 18 points, one rebound and one assist while Brian Obimbo added 15 points, grabbed seven rebounds and three steals.
Allan Nyongesa was the highest scorer for Strathmore with 8 points and grabbed five rebounds. In Mombasa, Martin Kitongo scored 26 points and Valentine Nyakinda added 22 as Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) beat Kenyatta University Pirates 89-50.
Saturday Results: Blazers 78 ANU 75, Strathmore University 51 Sprite Storms 25, Eagle Wings 44 USIU-A 79, Equity Bank Men 69 Strathmore University 47, Nakuru Club 47 Lions 61, Lakeside 50 KCA-U 54, Mennonite Ladies 29 KCA-U 41.
After four winless games each, KCA-U beat Mennonite 41-29 on Saturday at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium while Lions won 61-47 away to Nakuru Club.
Lions head coach Juma Ikapian attributed the victory to a change in their training, an extra session every week.
“The game was tough from the start but we struggled to the end with our defense stepping up well. After previous losses, we took time to work on our mistakes and coordination between players was good.”
For KCA-U, the win was long overdue and they dominated Mennonite in the first three quarters winning 8-7, 15-10 and 10-3. Mennonite won the fourth 9-8.
“We lost nine players immediately the season began which was a huge setback to our plans. I have recruited but some of the new players have never been coached making it difficult to handle them,” head coach Victor Ochieng said.
“These conferences have come with big breaks between games. I utilized that since our last game with KPA by taking the players through friendlies just to make them accustomed to winning and it has worked.”
Celestine Isabwa scored 12 points for KCA-U who had four points from free shots and one 3-point shot. Rachael Kibwana had a game high 20 points for Mennonite, scoring four in first quarter, six in second quarter, three in third quarter and seven in the fourth.
She grabbed four rebounds and one steal. Mennonite scored five points from free shots and six from the arc. Strathmore University taught Sprite Storms some basketball lessons with a 51-25 win. Pauline Oketch, Mollette Achieng and Rachael Opinya scored 12, 10 and 8 points respectively for Strathmore.
Faustin Mandu and Angela Luchivya top scored for Storms with 8 points each as the team scored nine free shots and made two 3-pointers.
Strathmore had six of their points coming off the free-throw line and made one 3-point shot.
USIU stop Eagles
Defending champions United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) showed their true character to beat Eagle Wings 79-44.
From the onset, a weakened Eagles appeared to be in for a surprise win after taking a slim 15-14 win in first quarter. With only Sarah Chan and Cynthia Irankunda the only foreign players out of six for USIU-A making their team list as per new rules, the students seemed to struggle allowing Eagles to lead 11-4 inside six minutes of the quarter.
When the second quarter started, Chan scored a quick basket for the lead to change hands at 16-15 in favour of USIU-A.
The students dictated pace until after four minutes of play when both teams tied at 21-all. Lucy Machuma managed to score a basket for Eagles who then went for close to ten minutes without scoring.
USIU-A won the quarter 19-8 for a 33-23 halftime lead. Until the fourth minute of third quarter, Eagles had not scored and USIU-A led 45-23 before winning the quarter 25-12. A 21-9 score in the fourth quarter sealed the all-important win for the students.
Sarah Chan proved her supremo scoring a game high 38 points, grabbed 17 rebounds and two blocks for the winners. Eunice Ouma scored 16 points for Eagles and grabbed 4 rebounds while Dorah Ouko added 11 points and grabbed 3 rebounds. USIU-A enjoyed the biggest lead of 35 points against 8 for Eagles, lead changed hands for three times and game was tied thrice.
The students bench proved too powerful producing 19 points against Eagles 3 while USIU-A scored 40 points in the paint against 24 for Eagles. 21 points for USIU-A came from second chances against 2 for Eagles while fast break points were 13 for the students and 12 for Eagles.
In 17 attempts from the free-throw line, USIU-A scored five and shot 34% from the arc at 10/29. Eagles attempted 14 times at the free-throw line scoring nine and shot 21% from the 3-point line at 3/14.
The only men premier league game played in Nairobi had Equity Bank beat Strathmore University 69-47. The biggest scoring run for Equity was 12-0 against 7-0 for Strathmore.
The students were outplayed only leading for 00:19 as the bankers commanded a 35:46 lead time. Equity won all quarters 14-10, 13-11, 16-12 and 26-13 respectively.
The lead in this game changed sides only twice while both teams were tied five times. Equity had the biggest lead of 26 points, making 6 shots out of 15 attempts at the arc and scored 15 free shots from 24 attempts.
Strathmore had only one 3-point shot made from nine attempts and scored 16 free shots out of 36 attempts.
Paul Nyakundi top scored for Equity with 18 points, one rebound and one assist while Brian Obimbo added 15 points, grabbed seven rebounds and three steals.
Allan Nyongesa was the highest scorer for Strathmore with 8 points and grabbed five rebounds. In Mombasa, Martin Kitongo scored 26 points and Valentine Nyakinda added 22 as Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) beat Kenyatta University Pirates 89-50.
Saturday Results: Blazers 78 ANU 75, Strathmore University 51 Sprite Storms 25, Eagle Wings 44 USIU-A 79, Equity Bank Men 69 Strathmore University 47, Nakuru Club 47 Lions 61, Lakeside 50 KCA-U 54, Mennonite Ladies 29 KCA-U 41.
KENYA : Lions set to end losing streak
Victor Ochieng of Lions beats his opponent Felix Omondi of Mennonites in a league match. The team is away in Nakuru where they hope to win their first match. (Photo by Shutterspeed)
Lions will play their fifth game of the season this weekend away at Nakuru Club hoping to score their first league win.
It has been a shaky start for the former champions who are kee to pick up the pieces against Nakuru. Simon Mayien, Harrison Kaudia, Dennis Opiyo and Victor Ochieng always rise to the occasion for the team and their form is what Lions will need this weekend.
The task at hand will be herculean considering the blistering form showed Nakuru. At their Menengai High School venue, they have already inflicted the only loss to Ulinzi Warriors. Therefore, Lions may need to tread carefully on this den.
Hillary Kubai, George Kiarie and Nicholas Ayang are three players who have the ability to propel Nakuru to a win.
Kenyatta University Pirates travel to Mombasa for their second game of the season to play Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). Strathmore University confront Equity Bank while University of Nairobi Terrorists play Mennonites.
Frank Manyala and Sila Awour will lead the fight for Terror.
In women's Premier League, Eagle Wings might not be at full strength but their game against United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) will be of keen interest to many. The two teams clash on Saturday afternoon and all eyes will be on Eunice Ouma who was the force behind Eagles' sparkle last weekend.
Player-coach Evelyne Kedogo is also expected to play a leading role in the game against USIU-A who have not played for some time. Captain Zipporah Adhiambo, Melissa Akinyi and Cynthia Irankunda are the players to watch for the students who are chasing a second successive title.
Another game that will attract keen attention is between Strathmore University and Sprite Storms on Saturday. Storms comes to the game from a historic century score against Mennonites with Linet Mukiri and Sylvia Omollo the standout players. Mollete Akinyi is expected to lead Strathmore’s offensive.
Equity Bank will play Mennonite while Ulinzi Blades confront Kenyatta University Oryx.
Weekend Fixtures
Saturday: Blazers vs ANU (9 a.m., Nyayo gymnasium), Equity Bank Ladies vs Mennonite (10:30), Strathmore University vs Sprite Storms (12 p.m.), Eagle Wings vs USIU-A (2 p.m.), Equity Bank Men vs Strathmore University (4 p.m.), MKU Thika vs Don Bosco (12 p.m., MKU), Baraka Xtreme vs 4 Christ (2 p.m., MKU), KPA vs KU Pirates (4 p.m., KPA), Nakuru Club vs Lions (11am, MHS), Nebulas- Kakamega vs EMYBA (9 a.m., KPC).
Sunday: Upper Hill vs Trail Blazers (9 a.m., Nyayo gymnasium), ANU vs MKU Thika (10:30), Ulinzi Blades vs KU Oryx (12pm), Strathmore University vs KU Pirates (2pm), Terror vs Mennonites (4 p.m.).
It has been a shaky start for the former champions who are kee to pick up the pieces against Nakuru. Simon Mayien, Harrison Kaudia, Dennis Opiyo and Victor Ochieng always rise to the occasion for the team and their form is what Lions will need this weekend.
The task at hand will be herculean considering the blistering form showed Nakuru. At their Menengai High School venue, they have already inflicted the only loss to Ulinzi Warriors. Therefore, Lions may need to tread carefully on this den.
Hillary Kubai, George Kiarie and Nicholas Ayang are three players who have the ability to propel Nakuru to a win.
Kenyatta University Pirates travel to Mombasa for their second game of the season to play Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). Strathmore University confront Equity Bank while University of Nairobi Terrorists play Mennonites.
Frank Manyala and Sila Awour will lead the fight for Terror.
In women's Premier League, Eagle Wings might not be at full strength but their game against United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) will be of keen interest to many. The two teams clash on Saturday afternoon and all eyes will be on Eunice Ouma who was the force behind Eagles' sparkle last weekend.
Player-coach Evelyne Kedogo is also expected to play a leading role in the game against USIU-A who have not played for some time. Captain Zipporah Adhiambo, Melissa Akinyi and Cynthia Irankunda are the players to watch for the students who are chasing a second successive title.
Another game that will attract keen attention is between Strathmore University and Sprite Storms on Saturday. Storms comes to the game from a historic century score against Mennonites with Linet Mukiri and Sylvia Omollo the standout players. Mollete Akinyi is expected to lead Strathmore’s offensive.
Equity Bank will play Mennonite while Ulinzi Blades confront Kenyatta University Oryx.
Weekend Fixtures
Saturday: Blazers vs ANU (9 a.m., Nyayo gymnasium), Equity Bank Ladies vs Mennonite (10:30), Strathmore University vs Sprite Storms (12 p.m.), Eagle Wings vs USIU-A (2 p.m.), Equity Bank Men vs Strathmore University (4 p.m.), MKU Thika vs Don Bosco (12 p.m., MKU), Baraka Xtreme vs 4 Christ (2 p.m., MKU), KPA vs KU Pirates (4 p.m., KPA), Nakuru Club vs Lions (11am, MHS), Nebulas- Kakamega vs EMYBA (9 a.m., KPC).
Sunday: Upper Hill vs Trail Blazers (9 a.m., Nyayo gymnasium), ANU vs MKU Thika (10:30), Ulinzi Blades vs KU Oryx (12pm), Strathmore University vs KU Pirates (2pm), Terror vs Mennonites (4 p.m.).
KENYA : Kenyan international Atieno impressed by intense Nigerian league
Lynette Atieno in action for her Zenith basketball team.(Photo:Courtesy)
Nigerian Basketball IS More Basic Than
In Kenya, Lynette Atieno Kenyan international forward Lynette Atieno
who was signed by Nigerian basketball giants First Bank this season is
impressed with the level of the game in her new base and feels the local
league still has long way to go to get to the standards in West Africa.
Speaking for the first time after joining the Zenith Bank National Female Basketball League defending champion and six-time winners, she drew parallels between the two leagues but admits Kenyan league is equally competitive.
“The training sessions alone are tougher and competitive thus everything here is about basic basketball. Most of Kenyan basketballers don't like basic basketball while here players have got the basics, the talent and above all the effort,"she told sportsnewsarena.com.
Sponsorship is another aspect that Atieno says the Nigerian league stands out from the Kenyan. Unlike in Kenya where both men and women leagues are under the sponsorship of DSTV who double up as official broadcaster, the Nigeria women league has its own sponsor in Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc while digital satellite TV service sponsors the men’s league.
This season alone, the bank upped its sponsorship package from N25 million to N30 million. She says that has helped a lot in transforming the league.
“Everything here about the league is constructive and in order. There are no game postponements, no walkovers and every team is disciplined compared to Kenya where we have a lot of those,” she observed.
Furthermore, some of the states in Nigeria which is an equivalent of counties in Kenya have their own teams playing in the league. That has further helped to grow the game from grassroots. “In Kenya, no single team is sponsored by any district.”
First Bank head coach Aderemi Adewunmi scouted Atieno at the African women's club championship in Tunisia last year and immediately initiated the process to sign her.
At the time, she was playing for Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). Her coach at the time Anthony Ojukwu helped her ink the deal having gotten offers from Tunisia and Mozambique as well.
“The head coach approached me and asked if I was interested playing in Nigeria and I said yes. A month later, I got a call from the coach and now I am here.”
Dream come true
The Nigerian league is one of the top in Africa and Atieno could not have asked for a better experience. “Am feeling so happy and humbled to play in one of the best leagues in Africa, achieving my dreams too and setting my goals high. I am putting in extra effort and hard work so that I become an example to the upcoming basketball players back in Kenya.”
Since her arrival in Lagos back in March, she has not had easy time settling down.
“My biggest challenge is food because they all contain pepper which I don't eat. The other thing is their pidgin English that I am still learning but the environment is so nice, it resembles that of Mombasa,” she said.
The 24-year old has contributed heavily to their 8-game winning run thus far.
“The experience has been fantastic. I have learned a lot and the technical bench as well as teammates are very loving and caring. I got a warm welcome.”
While in High School, she played soccer and volleyball but had learn't how to play basketball at the age of 12. She attributes all that to the early mentorship of Cliff Owuor who is the current coach of Rwandan club APR.
Atieno went on to play club basketball with Mennonite, Safe Spaces, Co-operative Bank and KPA. In 2008, she made her first major breakthrough representing Kenya at the under-18 basketball championships in Tunisia.
Last year, Atieno was part of the senior team that played at the All Africa Games qualifiers in Uganda. Having achieved all that within a span of few years that many players have been unable to, she sums it up with few words; “your world is what you make of it and sky is just but the beginning.”
Speaking for the first time after joining the Zenith Bank National Female Basketball League defending champion and six-time winners, she drew parallels between the two leagues but admits Kenyan league is equally competitive.
“The training sessions alone are tougher and competitive thus everything here is about basic basketball. Most of Kenyan basketballers don't like basic basketball while here players have got the basics, the talent and above all the effort,"she told sportsnewsarena.com.
Sponsorship is another aspect that Atieno says the Nigerian league stands out from the Kenyan. Unlike in Kenya where both men and women leagues are under the sponsorship of DSTV who double up as official broadcaster, the Nigeria women league has its own sponsor in Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc while digital satellite TV service sponsors the men’s league.
This season alone, the bank upped its sponsorship package from N25 million to N30 million. She says that has helped a lot in transforming the league.
“Everything here about the league is constructive and in order. There are no game postponements, no walkovers and every team is disciplined compared to Kenya where we have a lot of those,” she observed.
Furthermore, some of the states in Nigeria which is an equivalent of counties in Kenya have their own teams playing in the league. That has further helped to grow the game from grassroots. “In Kenya, no single team is sponsored by any district.”
First Bank head coach Aderemi Adewunmi scouted Atieno at the African women's club championship in Tunisia last year and immediately initiated the process to sign her.
At the time, she was playing for Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). Her coach at the time Anthony Ojukwu helped her ink the deal having gotten offers from Tunisia and Mozambique as well.
“The head coach approached me and asked if I was interested playing in Nigeria and I said yes. A month later, I got a call from the coach and now I am here.”
Dream come true
The Nigerian league is one of the top in Africa and Atieno could not have asked for a better experience. “Am feeling so happy and humbled to play in one of the best leagues in Africa, achieving my dreams too and setting my goals high. I am putting in extra effort and hard work so that I become an example to the upcoming basketball players back in Kenya.”
Since her arrival in Lagos back in March, she has not had easy time settling down.
“My biggest challenge is food because they all contain pepper which I don't eat. The other thing is their pidgin English that I am still learning but the environment is so nice, it resembles that of Mombasa,” she said.
The 24-year old has contributed heavily to their 8-game winning run thus far.
“The experience has been fantastic. I have learned a lot and the technical bench as well as teammates are very loving and caring. I got a warm welcome.”
While in High School, she played soccer and volleyball but had learn't how to play basketball at the age of 12. She attributes all that to the early mentorship of Cliff Owuor who is the current coach of Rwandan club APR.
Atieno went on to play club basketball with Mennonite, Safe Spaces, Co-operative Bank and KPA. In 2008, she made her first major breakthrough representing Kenya at the under-18 basketball championships in Tunisia.
Last year, Atieno was part of the senior team that played at the All Africa Games qualifiers in Uganda. Having achieved all that within a span of few years that many players have been unable to, she sums it up with few words; “your world is what you make of it and sky is just but the beginning.”
UGANDA : City Oilers squeeze past battle-hardened Warriors
Kampala.
Not many people gave Stanbic Warriors a chance
going into their Airtel Fuba League matchup against the champions City
Oilers at the Lugogo on Friday.
They kept themselves in it though and were level
at 54-all under three minutes before the Oilers finally pulled away
with a 61-54 win.
Warriors also provided the game’s biggest
highlight, Mark Opio crossing over Geoff Omondi before draining a three
as Warriors won the first quarter 21-16. The former also finished with a
game high 17 points. “We’re getting there bit by bit and happy with
today’s performance.
We wanted to gauge ourselves against the top teams
and we have not done too badly,” Warriors coach Gad Eteu stated after
the game. The Oilers had Kami Kabange score 16 points and Jimmy Enabu 15
as they restricted the Warriors to four points in the second quarter
which they won 13-4.
The Warriors then tried to stage a comeback taking
the third quarter 18-14 before losing the fourth 18-11. “We knew their
threat offensively was going to come from the shot, but we still
allowed them to make it. If we had got a team that could hurt us on the
inside then we would have been in trouble,” a rather disappointed
Mandy Juruni said after the game.
Burundian forward Landry Ndikumana made his debut
for the Oilers scoring seven points and picking nine rebounds in 28
minutes on court.
Today, Fahmy Sebantidira who spent five years at
Charging Rhino will turn guns against his former side as they face
Tiger Head Power in one of five games at Lugogo and UCU courts.
PLAYING TODAY
Lady Canons vs. A1 Challenge
M: Diamonds vs. Our Saviour
UCU Canons vs. Bush Court
Tiger Head Power vs. Charging Rhino
Lady Canons vs. A1 Challenge
M: Diamonds vs. Our Saviour
UCU Canons vs. Bush Court
Tiger Head Power vs. Charging Rhino
Lady Marines vs. Amazon Rhino
FRIDAY RESULTS
FRIDAY RESULTS
Warrioes 54-61 Warriors
W: KIU Rangers 42-65 KCCA Leopards
W: KIU Rangers 42-65 KCCA Leopards
22 May 2015
UGANDA : Oilers get Ndikumana green light ahead of clash with Warriors
Kampala- The extremes of luxury and need could
perhaps be a fitting description as Warriors play City Oilers in the
Airtel National Basketball at the Lugogo MTN Arena today.
Warriors have only been able to raise a full roster once in six games this season. How they could do with more players.
Oilers don’t have such worries and received
further boost this week after Fiba cleared Landry Ndikumana to join them
from Burundian side Urunani. His addition feels like an extravagance,
at least domestically.
Oilers have a 5-1 record with the only blemish
being an 81-66 defeat to Falcons. They also prevailed 75-65 in overtime
past KIU Titans with Kami Kabange and James Okello with game highs of 18
and 17 points.
Warriors in the meantime thrashed Bush Court 91-43
with Joshua Etalu scoring a game high 18 points in their last game. It
is in Mark Opio, though, that coach, Gad Eteu, will hinge his hopes on.
The guard is averaging 18.5 points this season.
Elsewhere, Sharing Youth continued their miserable
run, losing 35-71 to Power on Wednesday. The result followed more
losses to Falcons, KIU Titans, Warriors, City Oilers and UCU Canons.
Joseph Ikong made 5-of-6 shots from the field for
15 points with Paul Odong and Sudi Ulanga adding 11 apiece for Robert
Mugabe’s Power while Emmanuel Okumu top scored with seven for Sharing.
Magic Stormers eased past Amazon Rhino 67-31 in the women’s only fixture.
Today at Lugogo
Stanbic Warriors vs. City Oilers 8pm
KIU Rangers vs. KCCA Leopards 6pm
WEDNESDAY RESULTS
Power 71-35 SharingYouth
Amazon 31-67 Stormers
essenono@ug.nationmedia.com
Stanbic Warriors vs. City Oilers 8pm
KIU Rangers vs. KCCA Leopards 6pm
WEDNESDAY RESULTS
Power 71-35 SharingYouth
Amazon 31-67 Stormers
essenono@ug.nationmedia.com
TANZANIA : Dar Set for Inter-Cities Basketball Tournament
By Jimmy Lwangili
Dar es Salaam has once again been picked to host the 17th edition of the East and Central Africa Inter-cities Basketball Games scheduled for May 27 to 31, this year.
The annual tournament will involve both men and women teams from over ten cities in the region. Inter-cities Basketball Committee President, Simon Msofe told journalists in Dar es Salaam on Thursday that Azam Media and Energy Drink have confirmed to be the main sponsors of the tournament for the second time.
He said Azam TV will beam live matches in the five-day competition. Msofe took the opportunity to remind the local cities to prepare effectively and ensure that they keep the trophies for both categories in the country.
He urged the administration of the cities, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza and Tanga to assist in the preparations of their teams by participating directly to encourage other sponsors to come forward to support their teams.
"We have been picked to host this tournament again after successfully staging the 16th edition last year," said Msofe.
Apart from the five cities from Tanzania that will compete in the tournament, Msofe named other cities as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu from Kenya, while those from Uganda are Kampala, Jinja and Mukono.
Burundi and Rwanda will be represented by Bujumbura and Kigali respectively, Somalia is expected to send teams from Mogadishu, Quardho and Garowe cities, while South Sudan will bring Juba, Citizen and Malakal.
Dar es Salaam has once again been picked to host the 17th edition of the East and Central Africa Inter-cities Basketball Games scheduled for May 27 to 31, this year.
The annual tournament will involve both men and women teams from over ten cities in the region. Inter-cities Basketball Committee President, Simon Msofe told journalists in Dar es Salaam on Thursday that Azam Media and Energy Drink have confirmed to be the main sponsors of the tournament for the second time.
He said Azam TV will beam live matches in the five-day competition. Msofe took the opportunity to remind the local cities to prepare effectively and ensure that they keep the trophies for both categories in the country.
He urged the administration of the cities, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza and Tanga to assist in the preparations of their teams by participating directly to encourage other sponsors to come forward to support their teams.
"We have been picked to host this tournament again after successfully staging the 16th edition last year," said Msofe.
Apart from the five cities from Tanzania that will compete in the tournament, Msofe named other cities as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu from Kenya, while those from Uganda are Kampala, Jinja and Mukono.
Burundi and Rwanda will be represented by Bujumbura and Kigali respectively, Somalia is expected to send teams from Mogadishu, Quardho and Garowe cities, while South Sudan will bring Juba, Citizen and Malakal.
Nigeria: D'Tigress Sure of AAG, Afrobasket Tickets
By Joshua Odeyemi
Nigeria's senior women's basketball team, D'Tigress have assured that it will qualify for the 2015 All Africa Games (AAG) and Afrobasket events.
The team is currently in camp training for the qualifiers for the events billed to take place in Cote d'Ivoire between 28th of this month to the 6th of June.
Unlike their male counterparts who only played a two-legged qualifier against Burkina Faso to secure the two tickets, the girls will have to survive a round robin qualifier. But the girls who spoke with Daily Trust expressed optimism that they will earn the two tickets.
Adaora Elonu, D'Tigress power forward who plays for CB Conquero in Spain, said "hopefully, we will qualify."
Similarly, the team's captain, Helen Ogunjimi who last played for Bandar Abbas in Iran said the team will pick the tickets judging by the hard work the girls are presently putting in.
"Every body is coming in with a lot of excitement and positive attitude and it's been a great atmosphere. It's been good so far and I'm satisfied," the Shooting guard noted.
Also, Ndidi Madu who is based in the USA but plays in Spain with Cadi La Seu said: "I think we are prepared. No question, we will definitely survive the qualifier and get the tickets."
Head Coach of the team, Adewunmi Aderemi who also expressed optimism that with the caliber of players in camp, the country will earn the double tickets, confirmed that: "Everything we need to make sure we prepare well and qualify have been provided."
Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) President, Tijani Umar said the number of teams involved in the qualifiers has not been ascertained but Nigeria will probably lock horns against; Togo, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia and others in the same Zone 2 qualifier
Nigeria's senior women's basketball team, D'Tigress have assured that it will qualify for the 2015 All Africa Games (AAG) and Afrobasket events.
The team is currently in camp training for the qualifiers for the events billed to take place in Cote d'Ivoire between 28th of this month to the 6th of June.
Unlike their male counterparts who only played a two-legged qualifier against Burkina Faso to secure the two tickets, the girls will have to survive a round robin qualifier. But the girls who spoke with Daily Trust expressed optimism that they will earn the two tickets.
Adaora Elonu, D'Tigress power forward who plays for CB Conquero in Spain, said "hopefully, we will qualify."
Similarly, the team's captain, Helen Ogunjimi who last played for Bandar Abbas in Iran said the team will pick the tickets judging by the hard work the girls are presently putting in.
"Every body is coming in with a lot of excitement and positive attitude and it's been a great atmosphere. It's been good so far and I'm satisfied," the Shooting guard noted.
Also, Ndidi Madu who is based in the USA but plays in Spain with Cadi La Seu said: "I think we are prepared. No question, we will definitely survive the qualifier and get the tickets."
Head Coach of the team, Adewunmi Aderemi who also expressed optimism that with the caliber of players in camp, the country will earn the double tickets, confirmed that: "Everything we need to make sure we prepare well and qualify have been provided."
Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) President, Tijani Umar said the number of teams involved in the qualifiers has not been ascertained but Nigeria will probably lock horns against; Togo, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia and others in the same Zone 2 qualifier
21 May 2015
RWANDA : U-16 boys' hoops team start residential camp
The national U-16 basketball boys team enters residential training
camp today at La Palisse hotel in Nyandungu ahead of the upcoming Zone V
Championship set to be held in Kigali on May 25-26.
The tournament will act as a qualifier for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 tournament which will be held in Mali in July, however, only Eritrea has confirmed to take part in the regional tourney.
Other Zone V countries like Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda communicated to the Rwanda Basketball Federation and FIBA-Africa indicating that they don’t have U-16 teams.
It means Rwanda will play two games against Eritrea in which the winner will qualify for the FIBA Afro basketball tournament.
“We are trying to make sure that we have the strongest team available because we have to win the upcoming Zone V Basketball championship,” said head coach Charles Mushumba. The U-16 girls’ team has already qualified for the tourney because all the invited teams pulled out of the tournament and the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament will be staged in Madagascar from July 16-24.
Rwanda Basketball Federation has organized two friendly games for the girls team against PGB of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo next month.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
The tournament will act as a qualifier for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 tournament which will be held in Mali in July, however, only Eritrea has confirmed to take part in the regional tourney.
Other Zone V countries like Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda communicated to the Rwanda Basketball Federation and FIBA-Africa indicating that they don’t have U-16 teams.
It means Rwanda will play two games against Eritrea in which the winner will qualify for the FIBA Afro basketball tournament.
“We are trying to make sure that we have the strongest team available because we have to win the upcoming Zone V Basketball championship,” said head coach Charles Mushumba. The U-16 girls’ team has already qualified for the tourney because all the invited teams pulled out of the tournament and the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament will be staged in Madagascar from July 16-24.
Rwanda Basketball Federation has organized two friendly games for the girls team against PGB of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo next month.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw
DEBUTANTS
United States International University (USIU) women’s team beat
Footprints 39-35 in a Nairobi Basketball Association league match played
at Railways Club over the weekend.
But in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
- See more at:
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/usiu-register-mixed-results-nba-league-nazarene-university-shine#sthash.rCATSoOE.dpufBut in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
DEBUTANTS
United States International University (USIU) women’s team beat
Footprints 39-35 in a Nairobi Basketball Association league match played
at Railways Club over the weekend.
But in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
- See more at:
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/usiu-register-mixed-results-nba-league-nazarene-university-shine#sthash.rCATSoOE.dpufBut in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
DEBUTANTS
United States International University (USIU) women’s team beat
Footprints 39-35 in a Nairobi Basketball Association league match played
at Railways Club over the weekend.
But in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
- See more at:
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/usiu-register-mixed-results-nba-league-nazarene-university-shine#sthash.rCATSoOE.dpufBut in their second game, they were brought down to earth by Zetech University who dismissed them 51-38. African Nazarene University (ANU) hit Riara University Queens 61-59. In other matches Parklands Arya beat Mount Kenya University, Thika 41-36, Strathmore University walloped Jomo Kenyatta University 79-31 and went on to dismiss Parklands 59-42. Zetech nailed ANU 48-11.
In the men’s matches, Stathmore beat Lycans 79-29, Upper Hill trounced Jkuat Nairobi Campus 45-21 and Legacy stunned Jkuat 54-43. Other results were as follows Usiu 65 Saints 46; TUK 64 Old Pirates 549; Cuea 35 Feba 23; TUK 48 Woodley Knights 26; Our Lady Queens of Peace 65 Riara University Bucks 54; Jkuat 53 Embakasi Dynamoz 31, Strathmore 61 Tazmanians 33.
20 May 2015
UGANDA : Sharing meet Power in NBL
Power’s Fahmy Ssebatindira firmly grips the ball against Warriors.
Sharing Youth have started the Airtel National Basketball League
(NBL) season with a 0-5 run. That though has largely been down to a
difficult run of fixtures that have included games against giants
Falcons, KIU Titans, Warriors, City Oilers and UCU Canons.
And the trend is set to continue this evening at
YMCA when Sharing come up against another side that should be
challenging for this year’s title in Tiger Head Power.
Coach Robert Mugabe’s Power though, not entirely convincing in their previous game, got a 79-64 win over Warriors.
Sudi Ulanga and Joseph Ikong, who scored 21 and 14
points in that game are averaging 18.6 and 14.3 for Power who hold a
3-1 record so far.
Sharing on the other hand lost 73-47 to UCU Canons in their last game and seem to be struggling offensively with only Emmanuel Okumu averaging more than 10 points in four of their five games this season.
Sharing on the other hand lost 73-47 to UCU Canons in their last game and seem to be struggling offensively with only Emmanuel Okumu averaging more than 10 points in four of their five games this season.
Playing today
Amazon vs. Stormers 6:30pm
Sharing vs. Power 8:30pm
Amazon vs. Stormers 6:30pm
Sharing vs. Power 8:30pm
19 May 2015
NIGERIA : Lagos Meets Delta in Western Conference Final Tagged: Nigeria West Africa
Don Domingo Secondary School Warri, Delta State players celebrating
their qualification for the Milo Basketball final. The team will meet
Ilupeju Grammar School, Lagos, in the final of the competition.
It was all fireworks at the Western Conference semi-final of the 17th Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship at the indoor sports hall of the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, where Don Domingo Secondary School Warri, Delta State, beat Greenland Academy from Ogun State 34-29 to make the final of the competition.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach of the Delta side, Solomon Inegbedi, said, "our victory in all stages means so much to us and most especially to grassroots sports. I applaud my players and salute their courage, just as I also thank Nestle Plc, sponsors of the championship, for assisting in the development of basketball in the country." In second semi-final, Ilupeju Grammar School, Lagos, confirmed their supremacy over Government Secondary Ilorin, Kwara State, with an emphatic 41-15.
Ilupeju Grammar School will take on Don Domingo Secondary School in the final game of the Western Conference.
In the girl's semi-finals, Ogun State representative, Zeal College Otta, will play against host team, Yejide Grammar School Ibadan, in the Western Conference final today. The girls from Ogun State soared in the last quarter to defeat hard fighting Anglican High School, Equity State 24-22.
The head coach of Zeal College Otta, Akindele Peter, said, "the victory was well deserved and we are happy clinching a final ticket."
In the second semi final, the defending champion, Yejide Grammar School, Ibadan, walloped Wesley Girls Senior Secondary School, Lagos, 38-30
It was all fireworks at the Western Conference semi-final of the 17th Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship at the indoor sports hall of the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, where Don Domingo Secondary School Warri, Delta State, beat Greenland Academy from Ogun State 34-29 to make the final of the competition.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach of the Delta side, Solomon Inegbedi, said, "our victory in all stages means so much to us and most especially to grassroots sports. I applaud my players and salute their courage, just as I also thank Nestle Plc, sponsors of the championship, for assisting in the development of basketball in the country." In second semi-final, Ilupeju Grammar School, Lagos, confirmed their supremacy over Government Secondary Ilorin, Kwara State, with an emphatic 41-15.
Ilupeju Grammar School will take on Don Domingo Secondary School in the final game of the Western Conference.
In the girl's semi-finals, Ogun State representative, Zeal College Otta, will play against host team, Yejide Grammar School Ibadan, in the Western Conference final today. The girls from Ogun State soared in the last quarter to defeat hard fighting Anglican High School, Equity State 24-22.
The head coach of Zeal College Otta, Akindele Peter, said, "the victory was well deserved and we are happy clinching a final ticket."
In the second semi final, the defending champion, Yejide Grammar School, Ibadan, walloped Wesley Girls Senior Secondary School, Lagos, 38-30
18 May 2015
TANZANIA : Don Bosco Retain Basketball Title
By Daily News Reporter
DON Bosco Lioness retained the National Basketball League (NBL) women's title for the third consecutive year after beating Jeshi Stars 83-78 in a thrilling final at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
It was a closely contested game with the two sides fighting neck-to-neck in search of victory.
The capacity crowd witnessed an entertaining game as players of both sides displayed their determination and skills to the maximum to force the scoreboard to swap every so often.
The first quarter ended with the two sides tied at 18- 18, but the champions came back strongly in the second quarter to surge ahead 31-27, but they seemed to relax as minutes ticked away and were caught at 31-31.
However, relying on the services of star players Amina Lyamaiga, Orlyn Titus, Halima Mrisho and Rehema Silomba, Don Bosco Lioness regained their tempo and forced Jeshi Stars to the receiving end to enjoy a 38-36 lead at the breather.
Jeshi Stars retaliated with much vigour in the third quarter thanks to tireless efforts by Faraja Malack, Veronica Patrick and Yvonne Christopher which saw them lead 62-60.
A wind of change finally swept across the pitch in the last quarter in which the Lioness dictated terms and scored points with much ease to seal victory.
JKT and Don Bosco Lioness will face their Zanzibar counterparts for tickets to represent Tanzania at the Zone Five tournament to be held in Mombasa, Kenya, in August.
DON Bosco Lioness retained the National Basketball League (NBL) women's title for the third consecutive year after beating Jeshi Stars 83-78 in a thrilling final at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
It was a closely contested game with the two sides fighting neck-to-neck in search of victory.
The capacity crowd witnessed an entertaining game as players of both sides displayed their determination and skills to the maximum to force the scoreboard to swap every so often.
The first quarter ended with the two sides tied at 18- 18, but the champions came back strongly in the second quarter to surge ahead 31-27, but they seemed to relax as minutes ticked away and were caught at 31-31.
However, relying on the services of star players Amina Lyamaiga, Orlyn Titus, Halima Mrisho and Rehema Silomba, Don Bosco Lioness regained their tempo and forced Jeshi Stars to the receiving end to enjoy a 38-36 lead at the breather.
Jeshi Stars retaliated with much vigour in the third quarter thanks to tireless efforts by Faraja Malack, Veronica Patrick and Yvonne Christopher which saw them lead 62-60.
A wind of change finally swept across the pitch in the last quarter in which the Lioness dictated terms and scored points with much ease to seal victory.
JKT and Don Bosco Lioness will face their Zanzibar counterparts for tickets to represent Tanzania at the Zone Five tournament to be held in Mombasa, Kenya, in August.
TANZANIA : Savio Dethrone ABC, Set JKT Final Duel
By Betram Lengama
ARMY Basketball Club (ABC) have been dethroned after suffering a 68-60 defeat at the hands of Savio in a thrilling semi-final clash of the National Basketball League (NBL) men's category at the National Indoor Stadium on Saturday.
Savio have set a date with another army team JKT, in what is billed to be a mouthwatering final at the same venue today. The army men failed to contain Savio pressure from the word go and faced a stiff resistance from their opponents.
The defending champions had to trail behind Savio in all four quarters as Savio had the lion share of the game, which had attracted good number fans. Savio entered into the break after two quarter leading by 33- 28 points and in the third quarter ABC was also behind their opponents by one point as Savio led 46-45.
Pressure mounted in the last quarter as both teams exchanged quick points but still Savio enjoyed a lion share of possession, while ABC players were struggling to contain them. JKT cruised into the final stage after outshining Jogoo in the first semi-final clash by 96-61 points.
JKT who started the game at a low tempo lost the first quarter by 12-13 but their tempo changed in the second quarter and took command of the game, winning the remaining quarters by 16-13 and 38-14.
In the ladies category title holders Don Bosco Lioness will come face to face against their bitter rivals Jeshi Stars at the same venue today.
The game is expected to be breathtaking and mouthwatering as Jeshi Stars are looking for revenge after losing against their opponents in last year's finals.
Apart from looking for a revenge, the army ladies are also targeting at dethroning their opponents who have been dominating the league for some years, while the defending champions also expect to clinch the title for the third consecutive years.
This is what makes today's ladies final unpredictable and difficult for both sides. However, records shows that Don Bosco has an upper hand against their opponents, as they have been emerging winners in various matches whenever the two sides meet in various events.
Don Bosco Lioness and Jeshi Stars are yet to feel the pinch of defeat in the league, as both sides have won all their matches in this year's campaign. A defeat to either side will be the first.
Apart from being NBL defending champions, Don Bosco Lioness are also the Union Basketball League champions. Teams which were involved in this year's event are Vijana popularly known as 'City Bulls', ABC, Chui, Pazi, Oilers , Chang'ombe , JKT , Jogoo, Kurasini Heats, Mabibo Bullets, Chang'ombe United, Tanzania Prisons, Don Bosco Lioness, Jeshi Stars, Tanzania Prisons Queens, Kurasini Divaz, Vijana Queens and JKT - all from Dar es Salaam for men and women categories.
ARMY Basketball Club (ABC) have been dethroned after suffering a 68-60 defeat at the hands of Savio in a thrilling semi-final clash of the National Basketball League (NBL) men's category at the National Indoor Stadium on Saturday.
Savio have set a date with another army team JKT, in what is billed to be a mouthwatering final at the same venue today. The army men failed to contain Savio pressure from the word go and faced a stiff resistance from their opponents.
The defending champions had to trail behind Savio in all four quarters as Savio had the lion share of the game, which had attracted good number fans. Savio entered into the break after two quarter leading by 33- 28 points and in the third quarter ABC was also behind their opponents by one point as Savio led 46-45.
Pressure mounted in the last quarter as both teams exchanged quick points but still Savio enjoyed a lion share of possession, while ABC players were struggling to contain them. JKT cruised into the final stage after outshining Jogoo in the first semi-final clash by 96-61 points.
JKT who started the game at a low tempo lost the first quarter by 12-13 but their tempo changed in the second quarter and took command of the game, winning the remaining quarters by 16-13 and 38-14.
In the ladies category title holders Don Bosco Lioness will come face to face against their bitter rivals Jeshi Stars at the same venue today.
The game is expected to be breathtaking and mouthwatering as Jeshi Stars are looking for revenge after losing against their opponents in last year's finals.
Apart from looking for a revenge, the army ladies are also targeting at dethroning their opponents who have been dominating the league for some years, while the defending champions also expect to clinch the title for the third consecutive years.
This is what makes today's ladies final unpredictable and difficult for both sides. However, records shows that Don Bosco has an upper hand against their opponents, as they have been emerging winners in various matches whenever the two sides meet in various events.
Don Bosco Lioness and Jeshi Stars are yet to feel the pinch of defeat in the league, as both sides have won all their matches in this year's campaign. A defeat to either side will be the first.
Apart from being NBL defending champions, Don Bosco Lioness are also the Union Basketball League champions. Teams which were involved in this year's event are Vijana popularly known as 'City Bulls', ABC, Chui, Pazi, Oilers , Chang'ombe , JKT , Jogoo, Kurasini Heats, Mabibo Bullets, Chang'ombe United, Tanzania Prisons, Don Bosco Lioness, Jeshi Stars, Tanzania Prisons Queens, Kurasini Divaz, Vijana Queens and JKT - all from Dar es Salaam for men and women categories.
KENYA : Eunice Ouma helps Eagle Wings to double wins
Coop Bank's James Mwangi dribbles past KU Pirates players in their premier league match.(Photo by Shutterspeed)
Eunice Ouma helps Eagle Wings to
double wins Veteran guard Eunice Ouma shot an impressive 66% to steer
Eagle Wings to their second women premier league win of the weekend,
beating Western Delight 47-38 on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium
gymnasium.
Ouma was the engine for Eagle Wings in the entire game and her performance literally filled the void left by the absence of three players.
She top scored with 31 points that included two 3-point shots and 13 free shots. In first quarter, Ouma scored 11 points as Eagles won 20-9 and scored 8 in their 9-5 win in second quarter. Third quarter ended in a 8-all tie.
Fourth quarter was all for Ouma who scored ten points as Delight won 16-10. Celia Okumu was top scorer for Delight with 13 points. From the free-throw line, Eagles scored 16 points against nine for Delight while both teams scored nine points from 3-pointers.
On Saturday, Eagle Wings beat visiting Kisumu Lady Bucks 71-26 after leading 43-19 at halftime. It was another solid display for the Eagles who commanded the first three quarters 14-10, 29-9 and 24-2 but lost the fourth 4-5.
Western Delight beat KU
Western Delight had registered their first win of the season and a crucial away victory on Saturday after beating Kenyatta University Oryx 42-41.
The game tied 16-all at halftime with Delight winning first quarter 7-2 and Oryx the second 14-9. Delight had the advantage in third quarter winning 9-8 with the fourth deadlocking at 17-all.
Catherine Akinyi top scored for Delight with 14 points and Celia Okumu added 9 while Bedine Okoth scored 10 points for Oryx and Mshila Rose added 7.
On Sunday, Oryx bounced back with a 36-16 win over Kisumu Lady Bucks. Oryx led 16-7 at halftime with 5-0 and 11-7 wins. Lady Bucks could not fight back as the students went on to command the second half with 8-3 and 12-6 wins.
Brenda Wangui top scored for Oryx with 14 points, Rachael Wandago adding 10 while Joyce Misata scored highest for the Kisumu side with 9 points. Oryx made nine free shots and one 3-pointer while Lady Bucks had four points off the free-throw line.
In men premier league, United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) played two games registering a win and loss.
They were stunned 65-47 by newly-promoted Umoja on Saturday. Umoja never gave the students any breathing space winning first two quarters 19-14 and 21-14 to lead 40-28 at halftime.
USIU edge out Terror
Umoja stretched their lead further with a 13-8 win in third quarter and wrapped it up in the fourth winning 12-11. When they played University of Nairobi’s Terrorist on Sunday, it was a must-win encounter for USIU-A.
Kevin Kigotho and Micah Opinya scored 22 points each to lead USIU-A to a 83-51 win. Opinya had the only three 3-point shots to account for USIU-A who scored 12 points from free shots.
Terror made seven 3-point shots and five free shots as William Mayiel top scored with 18 points, all from six 3-pointers.
Collins Ochieng shot two 3-pointers to add 12 points for Terror. USIU-A enjoyed a 45-31 halftime lead after winning first quarter 28-13 and Terror the second 18-17.
Terror was no match for USIU-A in second half as the latter won 15-10 and 23-10 respectively. In third quarter, Terror had their head coach Emmanuel Ochieng given a technical foul by referee Victor Ochieng for abusive language.
In another game, Co-operative Bank beat Kenyatta University Pirates 79-49 helped by 17 points from James Mwangi and 13 from Titus Musembi. Charles Otieno scored the first 12 points of the game for World Hope from four 3-pointers as they beat Upper Hill 75-72 in division one action.
Overall, Otieno hit five 3-point shots to score 20 points but Moses Abraham top scored with 21, scoring seven free shots and two 3-pointers. David Ouma was the top scorer for Upper Hill with a game high 31 points, scoring six free shots and one 3-pointer. World Hope had 12 points from free shots and 27 from the arc against Upper Hill’s 13 from free shots and 15 from the arc.
Lakeside from Kisumu had a poor outing in the city losing their two games. On Saturday, they were beaten 60-51 by Blazers and lost 57-84 to Barclays Bank on Sunday.
Weekend Results: Saturday- Eagle Wings 71 Kisumu Lady Bucks 26, KU Oryx 41 Western Delight 42, Blazers 60 Lakeside 51, Co-op Bank 79 KU Pirates 49, Umoja 65 USIU Tigers 47; Sunday- Eagle Wings 47 Western Delight 38, KU Oryx 36 Kisumu Lady Bucks 16, Barclays Bank 84 Lakeside 57, World Hope 75 Upper Hill 72, USIU Tigers 83 UoN Terror 51.
Ouma was the engine for Eagle Wings in the entire game and her performance literally filled the void left by the absence of three players.
She top scored with 31 points that included two 3-point shots and 13 free shots. In first quarter, Ouma scored 11 points as Eagles won 20-9 and scored 8 in their 9-5 win in second quarter. Third quarter ended in a 8-all tie.
Fourth quarter was all for Ouma who scored ten points as Delight won 16-10. Celia Okumu was top scorer for Delight with 13 points. From the free-throw line, Eagles scored 16 points against nine for Delight while both teams scored nine points from 3-pointers.
On Saturday, Eagle Wings beat visiting Kisumu Lady Bucks 71-26 after leading 43-19 at halftime. It was another solid display for the Eagles who commanded the first three quarters 14-10, 29-9 and 24-2 but lost the fourth 4-5.
Western Delight beat KU
Western Delight had registered their first win of the season and a crucial away victory on Saturday after beating Kenyatta University Oryx 42-41.
The game tied 16-all at halftime with Delight winning first quarter 7-2 and Oryx the second 14-9. Delight had the advantage in third quarter winning 9-8 with the fourth deadlocking at 17-all.
Catherine Akinyi top scored for Delight with 14 points and Celia Okumu added 9 while Bedine Okoth scored 10 points for Oryx and Mshila Rose added 7.
On Sunday, Oryx bounced back with a 36-16 win over Kisumu Lady Bucks. Oryx led 16-7 at halftime with 5-0 and 11-7 wins. Lady Bucks could not fight back as the students went on to command the second half with 8-3 and 12-6 wins.
Brenda Wangui top scored for Oryx with 14 points, Rachael Wandago adding 10 while Joyce Misata scored highest for the Kisumu side with 9 points. Oryx made nine free shots and one 3-pointer while Lady Bucks had four points off the free-throw line.
In men premier league, United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) played two games registering a win and loss.
They were stunned 65-47 by newly-promoted Umoja on Saturday. Umoja never gave the students any breathing space winning first two quarters 19-14 and 21-14 to lead 40-28 at halftime.
USIU edge out Terror
Umoja stretched their lead further with a 13-8 win in third quarter and wrapped it up in the fourth winning 12-11. When they played University of Nairobi’s Terrorist on Sunday, it was a must-win encounter for USIU-A.
Kevin Kigotho and Micah Opinya scored 22 points each to lead USIU-A to a 83-51 win. Opinya had the only three 3-point shots to account for USIU-A who scored 12 points from free shots.
Terror made seven 3-point shots and five free shots as William Mayiel top scored with 18 points, all from six 3-pointers.
Collins Ochieng shot two 3-pointers to add 12 points for Terror. USIU-A enjoyed a 45-31 halftime lead after winning first quarter 28-13 and Terror the second 18-17.
Terror was no match for USIU-A in second half as the latter won 15-10 and 23-10 respectively. In third quarter, Terror had their head coach Emmanuel Ochieng given a technical foul by referee Victor Ochieng for abusive language.
In another game, Co-operative Bank beat Kenyatta University Pirates 79-49 helped by 17 points from James Mwangi and 13 from Titus Musembi. Charles Otieno scored the first 12 points of the game for World Hope from four 3-pointers as they beat Upper Hill 75-72 in division one action.
Overall, Otieno hit five 3-point shots to score 20 points but Moses Abraham top scored with 21, scoring seven free shots and two 3-pointers. David Ouma was the top scorer for Upper Hill with a game high 31 points, scoring six free shots and one 3-pointer. World Hope had 12 points from free shots and 27 from the arc against Upper Hill’s 13 from free shots and 15 from the arc.
Lakeside from Kisumu had a poor outing in the city losing their two games. On Saturday, they were beaten 60-51 by Blazers and lost 57-84 to Barclays Bank on Sunday.
Weekend Results: Saturday- Eagle Wings 71 Kisumu Lady Bucks 26, KU Oryx 41 Western Delight 42, Blazers 60 Lakeside 51, Co-op Bank 79 KU Pirates 49, Umoja 65 USIU Tigers 47; Sunday- Eagle Wings 47 Western Delight 38, KU Oryx 36 Kisumu Lady Bucks 16, Barclays Bank 84 Lakeside 57, World Hope 75 Upper Hill 72, USIU Tigers 83 UoN Terror 51.
RWANDA : Espoir win Basketball league trophy
Lionel Hakizimana was in good form as Espoir defeated APR to retain the Basketball league trophy. (File)
Saturday
Espoir 68-48 APR
30- Plus 50-56 UR- CoE
ESPOIR Basketball Club beat rivals APR 68-48 on Saturday at Amahoro stadium to retain the national basketball championship title for a fourth consecutive time since 2012.
The Nyamirambo-based giants through forward Pascal Karekezi Rurangirwa who was in good form and shooting guard Lionnel Hakizimana
overpowered the youthful inexperienced APR team.
Jean Bahufite’s Espoir retain the title with three games to play against IPRC- Kigali, Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) and Rusizi BBC respectively.
Espoir Captain Aristide Mugabe praised his teammates and coaching staff for another milestone achieved but challenged his team mates to win their remaining matches.
“It is a joyous moment for Espoir, winning the league title four times back-to-back is not something that happens overnight, it takes a brave, courageous and resilient heart to achieve. We still have three league games to play, we should not be complacent now,” the 27-year old point guard said.
Elsewhere, Struggling University of Rwanda- College of Education (UR- CoE) claimed their first victory of the season since February, winning 56-50 over 30- Plus.
RWANDA : Nine countries snub Zone V Championship
The
U-16 boys team training at Amahoro stadium recently. Only Eritrea stand
in their way to lift the 2015 Afro-Basketball tourney. (Sam
Ngendahimana)
Only Eritrea has confirmed to take part in the tourney while Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda wrote to the Basketball Federation saying that they don’t have U-16 teams.
The U-16 Zone V tournament runs from May 26-27 with the National U-16 boys’ team playing 2 games against Eritrea in which the winner will qualify for the Fiba Afro basketball U-16 tournament.
Richard Mutabazi, the Secretary General of the Rwanda Basketball Federation said the U-16 girls’ team has already qualified for the tourney because all the invited teams pulled out of the tournament.
The Fiba Afrobasket U-16 girls’ tournament is slated for July 16-24 in Madagascar while the boys’ edition will take place in Mali in July.
Meanwhile Didier Shema Maboko, the National Basketball Federation Technical director and referee has been selected among FIBA active referees to participate in the NBA Summer Camp in Las Vegas - USA from 6 - 12 July.
He will be representing Africa with another referee from Cameroun. This Camp is organized by NBA during the summer where NBA players alongside NBA coaches meet and share Basketball skills and some recruit new players
16 May 2015
TANZANIA : ABC Set to Retain Basketball Crown
NATIONAL Basketball League (NBL) defending champions ABC are in good
position to retain the title as they top their group in the ongoing
battle at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
ABC are leading Group B, dubbed as 'Azam Cola', with six points -- one ahead of the country's former basketball giants Vijana 'City Bulls' after winning three consecutive games and have a game in hand to complete the group stage.
The army men have already assured themselves of a ticket to the quarter-finals. Group C, alias 'Azam TV', is led by Savio who have collected eight points and have already completed their group stage games.
They are followed by Pazi, who have seven points. Both have cruised into the quarter-finals. JKT lead Group A, called 'Azam Energy drink', with six points after their 116-76 win against Chang'ombe United, who are at the bottom of the table.
Bandari Tanga are in second position with six points after defeating Chui 75-61. JKT top the group on goal difference. Jeshi Stars lead the women's category called 'Azam Uhai'.
They are followed by Don Bosco Lioness. Both are tied on points but Jeshi Stars are ahead on goal difference. The men's quarter-finals take place today while the semi-finals are scheduled for tomorrow and the final is slated for Sunday.
The teams are pooled as follows: Group A: JKT, Bandari Tanga, Chui and Chang'ombe United. Group B: ABC, Vijana, Kurasini Heats, Young Warriors and Oilers.
Group C: Tanzania Prisons, Savio, Pazi, Jogoo and Mabibo Bullets. Teams in the women's group are Jeshi Stars, Don Bosco Lioness, Tanzania Prisons Queens, Kurasini Divaz and Vijana Queens. ABC are men's defending champions, while Don Bosco Lioness hold the women's crown.
Winners of borh categories will face their Zanzibar counterparts for tickets to represent the country at the Zone Five tournament to be held in Mombasa, Kenya in August.
ABC are leading Group B, dubbed as 'Azam Cola', with six points -- one ahead of the country's former basketball giants Vijana 'City Bulls' after winning three consecutive games and have a game in hand to complete the group stage.
The army men have already assured themselves of a ticket to the quarter-finals. Group C, alias 'Azam TV', is led by Savio who have collected eight points and have already completed their group stage games.
They are followed by Pazi, who have seven points. Both have cruised into the quarter-finals. JKT lead Group A, called 'Azam Energy drink', with six points after their 116-76 win against Chang'ombe United, who are at the bottom of the table.
Bandari Tanga are in second position with six points after defeating Chui 75-61. JKT top the group on goal difference. Jeshi Stars lead the women's category called 'Azam Uhai'.
They are followed by Don Bosco Lioness. Both are tied on points but Jeshi Stars are ahead on goal difference. The men's quarter-finals take place today while the semi-finals are scheduled for tomorrow and the final is slated for Sunday.
The teams are pooled as follows: Group A: JKT, Bandari Tanga, Chui and Chang'ombe United. Group B: ABC, Vijana, Kurasini Heats, Young Warriors and Oilers.
Group C: Tanzania Prisons, Savio, Pazi, Jogoo and Mabibo Bullets. Teams in the women's group are Jeshi Stars, Don Bosco Lioness, Tanzania Prisons Queens, Kurasini Divaz and Vijana Queens. ABC are men's defending champions, while Don Bosco Lioness hold the women's crown.
Winners of borh categories will face their Zanzibar counterparts for tickets to represent the country at the Zone Five tournament to be held in Mombasa, Kenya in August.
RWANDA : Giants Espoir, APR face off
Today
Rusizi vs Patriots 9am
Espoir vs APR 4pm
Sunday
Women
The Hoops vs APR 9am
Three-time reigning champions Espoir BBC and former champions APR Basketball Club lock horns this afternoon at Amahoro indoor stadium at 4pm in an epic encounter likely to bring out the best from each team.
The 2010 champions APR are second on the league log with 25 points, 2 points off league leaders Espoir and will be hoping to stun Jean Bahufite’s Espoir to move above them.
APR’s Kenyan coach Cliff Owuor said in a telephone interview with this paper that he has a youthful and less experienced side but believes winning against the defending champions is possible and they are going to do everything in their powers for a victory.
Espoir will be looking for a double after winning the first-leg.
In the women’s league, The Hoops Rwanda play seven-time champions APR Basketball Club on Sunday.
Rusizi vs Patriots 9am
Espoir vs APR 4pm
Sunday
Women
The Hoops vs APR 9am
Three-time reigning champions Espoir BBC and former champions APR Basketball Club lock horns this afternoon at Amahoro indoor stadium at 4pm in an epic encounter likely to bring out the best from each team.
The 2010 champions APR are second on the league log with 25 points, 2 points off league leaders Espoir and will be hoping to stun Jean Bahufite’s Espoir to move above them.
APR’s Kenyan coach Cliff Owuor said in a telephone interview with this paper that he has a youthful and less experienced side but believes winning against the defending champions is possible and they are going to do everything in their powers for a victory.
Espoir will be looking for a double after winning the first-leg.
In the women’s league, The Hoops Rwanda play seven-time champions APR Basketball Club on Sunday.
14 May 2015
TANZANIA : New West Fail to Honour Fixture
Zanzibar — JKU ladies were awarded maximum points after their
opponents New West failed to show up in the on-going Zanzibar basketball
league at the Maisara Grounds on Monday.
The match that was scheduled to start from 3.00pm could not take place as planned as New West failed to honour the fixture without any notice. Competition Committee Secretary Abdallah Juma said JKU ladies were awarded two points.
"According to the competition's regulations, a team that fails to honour the fixture automatically loses maximum points," he said. In another match that started at 4.00pm at the same venue, African Magic defeated Mafunzo 62-23.
The League was set to continue on Tuesday with a match pitting Cavarious against Mbuyuni, while Nyuki were to face Stone Town. In another development, Black Sailor FC leadership has put up strategies to ensure that they finish among the top three and earn promotion to the Zanzibar Premier League next season.
This was said here yesterday by the team's spokesperson, Abuubakar Khatibu, when highlighting the team's preparations for the best First Division Four-League that kicked off on Tuesday.
"Our coaches are making every effort to ensure that the team is in good shape and at the leadership level we have put in place measures that ensure our players are motivated and ready to fight for the best results," he said.
Black Sailor managed to reach the best four after finishing second in the First Division League group stage. They were in Group A and were due to face KVZ, who finished top of Group B.
The match that was scheduled to start from 3.00pm could not take place as planned as New West failed to honour the fixture without any notice. Competition Committee Secretary Abdallah Juma said JKU ladies were awarded two points.
"According to the competition's regulations, a team that fails to honour the fixture automatically loses maximum points," he said. In another match that started at 4.00pm at the same venue, African Magic defeated Mafunzo 62-23.
The League was set to continue on Tuesday with a match pitting Cavarious against Mbuyuni, while Nyuki were to face Stone Town. In another development, Black Sailor FC leadership has put up strategies to ensure that they finish among the top three and earn promotion to the Zanzibar Premier League next season.
This was said here yesterday by the team's spokesperson, Abuubakar Khatibu, when highlighting the team's preparations for the best First Division Four-League that kicked off on Tuesday.
"Our coaches are making every effort to ensure that the team is in good shape and at the leadership level we have put in place measures that ensure our players are motivated and ready to fight for the best results," he said.
Black Sailor managed to reach the best four after finishing second in the First Division League group stage. They were in Group A and were due to face KVZ, who finished top of Group B.
13 May 2015
TANZANIA : Jogoo Edge Out Prisons in National Basketball League
JOGOO on Tuesday registered their second win in the ongoing National Basketball League (NBL) which commenced last Friday at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Jogoo recorded a slim 68- 63 win over Tanzania Prisons in a thrilling and competitive game in the league which involves over 20 teams that are battling it out for the national championship title organized by the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF).
Tuesday's win and their previous 141-76 victory against Mabibo Bullets last Saturday put them in second position in their Azam TV Group, behind leaders Savio.
Other groups are named Azam Energy, Azam Cola and Azam Uhai which are currently led by JKT, Vijana 'City Bulls' and Jeshi Stars respectively.
In Wednesday's games, Jogoo will fight for the top spot against Savio, Oilers will take on ABC, Chang'ombe will face JKT and Chui will lock horns with Bandari Tanga. In the ladies category, Kurasini Divers will play against Tanzania Prisons Queens.
The league was earlier scheduled to start last Tuesday but was postponed to Saturday due to the withdrawal of some sponsors at the eleventh hour.
Participating teams come from Tanga, Dodoma, Morogoro, Lindi, Arusha, Mbeya, Mtwara and hosts Dar es Salaam. They are Vijana, popularly known as 'City Bulls', ABC, Chui, Don Bosco, Oilers, Chang'ombe, JKT, Jogoo Kurasini Hits, Ilala Flats, Don Bosco Lioness, Jeshi Stars and JKT, all from Dar es Salaam in the men and women's categories.
Others are Tanga Wanted, Tanga Kings and Risasi from Tanga; University of Dodoma (UDOM) and Mzinga from Morogoro. NBL reigning men's champions ABC, while Don Bosco Lioness hold the women's title.
The Mainland men and women's champions will battle with their Zanzibar counterparts for a ticket to represent the country in the Zone Five tournament to be held in Mombasa, Kenya later in August.
12 May 2015
UGANDA : Okall, Omony star as Falcons make it five straight wins
KAMPALA. Star Times Falcons and KIU Titans are to many, the likely challengers to City Oilers’ Airtel National Basketball League title.
So far they have done that reputation no harm as evidenced on Sunday in picking up respective fifth and fourth successive wins at the Lugogo MTN Arena.
So far they have done that reputation no harm as evidenced on Sunday in picking up respective fifth and fourth successive wins at the Lugogo MTN Arena.
Falcons won 79-62 over newly promoted Bushcourt
while the Titans who play Oilers on Friday recorded a comfortable 82-52
victory over Diamond in the Sun(DITS).
Ariel Okall had 18 points and 10 rebounds despite not featuring in the first quarter while Stephen Omony also picked a double double of15 and 10 boards.
Ariel Okall had 18 points and 10 rebounds despite not featuring in the first quarter while Stephen Omony also picked a double double of15 and 10 boards.
Stephen Nyeko and Jonathan Kirya top scored for Bush Court with 14 and 11 points respectively.
Henry Malinga meanwhile scored a team high 19 points for the Titans who also had three other players Geoffrey Soro (15) Chris Omanye (11) and Diego Angemi (10) in double figures. Dits who trailed throughout the game had Bernard Okumu and Emma Odongkara score 19 and 16 points respectively.
Henry Malinga meanwhile scored a team high 19 points for the Titans who also had three other players Geoffrey Soro (15) Chris Omanye (11) and Diego Angemi (10) in double figures. Dits who trailed throughout the game had Bernard Okumu and Emma Odongkara score 19 and 16 points respectively.
ANBL RESULTS (Men)
Our saviour 74-58 Rhinos
Falcons 79-62 Bush Court
UCU Canons 71-47 Sharing.
Our saviour 74-58 Rhinos
Falcons 79-62 Bush Court
UCU Canons 71-47 Sharing.
RWANDA : Buzangu inspires CSK over Patriots
Mike Buzangu.
Sunday
Men
Patriots 60-71 CSK
UR-CASS 53-74 Espoir
Rusizi 47-86 APR
IPRC-South 98-53 30-Plus
Women
UR-CASS 19-51 APR
Mike Buzangu scored 29 points as Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) came from two quarters down to beat Patriots 71-60 in a tightly contested league match on Sunday at Amahoro stadium.
Patriots, who have been in good form recently won the first two quarters 20-11, 20-17 to go into half-time break with a 40-27 lead but CSK re-organised themselves in the second half winning the last two quarters 24-7 and 19-11.
Elsewhere, reigning champions Espoir BBC continued their impressive run beating 30-Plus 76-36 on Saturday before claiming a 74-53 win over UR- College of Arts and Social Sciences in an entertaining game held at a fully-packed UR- Huye campus gymnasium.
In the women’s league, The Hoops Rwanda beat 53-33 IPRC- South on Saturday while seven-time champions APR BBC humiliated UR- CASS 51-19.
Espoir lead the league with 27 points, APR with two points adrift are second while Patriots and CSK BBC come third and fourth with 24 points respectively.
Men
Patriots 60-71 CSK
UR-CASS 53-74 Espoir
Rusizi 47-86 APR
IPRC-South 98-53 30-Plus
Women
UR-CASS 19-51 APR
Mike Buzangu scored 29 points as Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) came from two quarters down to beat Patriots 71-60 in a tightly contested league match on Sunday at Amahoro stadium.
Patriots, who have been in good form recently won the first two quarters 20-11, 20-17 to go into half-time break with a 40-27 lead but CSK re-organised themselves in the second half winning the last two quarters 24-7 and 19-11.
Elsewhere, reigning champions Espoir BBC continued their impressive run beating 30-Plus 76-36 on Saturday before claiming a 74-53 win over UR- College of Arts and Social Sciences in an entertaining game held at a fully-packed UR- Huye campus gymnasium.
In the women’s league, The Hoops Rwanda beat 53-33 IPRC- South on Saturday while seven-time champions APR BBC humiliated UR- CASS 51-19.
Espoir lead the league with 27 points, APR with two points adrift are second while Patriots and CSK BBC come third and fourth with 24 points respectively.
11 May 2015
KENYA : Ulinzi overpower Blades, Thunder strike Aviation
UGANDA : Uganda eclipse Kenya in Zuku All-Star show
Uganda eclipse Kenya in Zuku All-Star show
The men won 73-55 while it was a lot closer in the ladies, who prevailed 72-71. For Power, the win was not one of their most impressive performances but they managed to get over the line. In total, 42 turnovers were recorded with Power committing 17 compared to Warriors’ 25.
Team Uganda celebrate with their trophy after outlasting Kenya in the Zuku All-Star game at Lugogo. Photo by Ismail Kezaala
By Elvis Senono
Earlier, Ugandan fans must similarly have
felt the same when the men and women’s All-Star Zuku University League
Basketball teams triumphed over their Kenyan counterparts. The men won 73-55 while it was a lot closer in the ladies, who prevailed 72-71. For Power, the win was not one of their most impressive performances but they managed to get over the line. In total, 42 turnovers were recorded with Power committing 17 compared to Warriors’ 25.
Sudi Ulanga scored a team high 21 points while
Francis Kasinde impressed with 18 points and 12 rebounds and Joseph
Ikong added 14 for Power, who improved to 3-1 this season.
Mark Opio meanwhile, playing less minutes than one would have anticipated, scored 22 of his 28 points in the final two quarters for Warriors, who came within five points of Power at 58-53 in the fourth quarter.
Mark Opio meanwhile, playing less minutes than one would have anticipated, scored 22 of his 28 points in the final two quarters for Warriors, who came within five points of Power at 58-53 in the fourth quarter.
zubl all-star
M: Team Uganda 73-55 Team Kenya
W: Team Uganda 72-71 Team Kenya
All-Star MVP men: Sammy Kalwanyi
All-Star MVP (w): Winnie Anyango
ZUBL AWARDS (men)
MVP: James Okello (Ndejje University)
Most Offensive Player: Sedar Sagamba (St Lawrence University)
Most Defensive Player: Brian Namake (UCU, Mukono)
MVP (W): Vilma Achieng (UCU)
Most Offensive Player: Sylvia Nakazibwe (Makerere)
Most Defensive Player: Purity Odhiambo (UCU).
M: Team Uganda 73-55 Team Kenya
W: Team Uganda 72-71 Team Kenya
All-Star MVP men: Sammy Kalwanyi
All-Star MVP (w): Winnie Anyango
ZUBL AWARDS (men)
MVP: James Okello (Ndejje University)
Most Offensive Player: Sedar Sagamba (St Lawrence University)
Most Defensive Player: Brian Namake (UCU, Mukono)
MVP (W): Vilma Achieng (UCU)
Most Offensive Player: Sylvia Nakazibwe (Makerere)
Most Defensive Player: Purity Odhiambo (UCU).
