Basketball in Africa

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Today
Semi-finals
Espoir vs APR 4pm
Patriots vs IPRC-South 6pm
Patriots Basketball Club new signing Aristide Mugabe is eager to repeat what he did with his former club Espoir by leading his new side to the basketball pre-season tournament.
After inspiring Cyrille Kalima’s side to top pool B last weekend and a place in the last four, all eyes will be on Mugabe when Patriots face IPRC- South this evening at Amahoro indoor stadium in the second semi-final.
The winner will face whoever comes on top in the clash between old rivals APR and defending champions Espoir in the day’s first semi-final at the same venue.
The 27-year-old point-guard, Mugabe joined Patriots earlier his month from Espoir, a side he had served for the last five years, leading them to four consecutive league and play-off titles among other trophies.
“Parting ways with Espoir was a tough decision to make but I had to leave. Patriots are a new chapter in my career and I’m looking forward to the challenge. My target is to win titles with the club including the pre-season tournament,” the national team captain told Saturday Sport.
The 2012 FIBA Africa Zone Five MVP Mugabe added that, “Patriots are committed and an ambitious team, they have shown they are capable of challenging for trophies. I have been warmly welcomed here and, it already feels like home.”
Patriots beat IPRC- Kigali 65-44 and APR 70-54 to finish top of pool B and set semi-final meet with IPRC- South, who finished second from pool A behind holders Espoir.
Finals in both male and female categories will be played on Sunday afternoon.