29 March 2015

UGANDA : UCU Invitational Basketball tourney set for this weekend


The annual Uganda Christian University (UCU) Invitational Basketball tournament is set to take place this weekend at the university’s main campus in Mukono.
This year’s National Basketball League tune up event has attracted has attracted 20 teams – 12 men’s and 8 women's. One of the women’s teams is a school side, Buddo S.S
The teams have been grouped into two for the women and the top two in each group will qualify for the semis and then a chance to play at the finals. For the men’s category, teams have been grouped into four and the top two will qualify out of the groups.
“Our goal is to give teams a good preseason season competition” UCU ‘s Nick Nutuhereza said on the tourney
Women’s Groups:
Group A: UCU, Gladiators, Makerere, Javon
Group B: KIU, KCCA, Amazon, Budo SS
Men’s Groups:
Group A: UCU, JKL, UPDF
Group B: KIU, Our Saviour, Makindye
Group C: Ndejje, Warriors, Phenoms
GroupD: Power, DITS, UMU

UGANDA : Sudi Ulanga braced for new season with Power


Sudi Ulanga recieveing the Regular Season MVP trophy from UOC president William Blick Photo Credits: Airtel Media Sudi Ulanga recieveing the Regular Season MVP trophy from UOC president William Blick
Suudi Ulanga’s five year stay in the National Basketball League finally ripped him an individual award. Last Saturday, Power’s shooting guard was named last season’s Regular Season MVP for the performance he has with UCU Canons.
“It feels nice (to be MVP). It’s my first here and i take it as a motivation” he says. “I have been working hard as an individual and i will never stop  because the fact is you can be a good player if you cant put extra work”
The Tanzanian born sharp shooter had his first games for Power at the KIU Invitational. Ulanga looked like the trueself in just one of the four games Power played at the tournament. The guard admits its going to be a challenge – but one he is ready for.
“I have a big challenge a head of me the fact that I'm playing for a different club this season but i always work hard”
The guard’s next games for his new side come this weekend in another preseason tournament –  the UCU Invitational  be fore the National Basketball League he looking forward to helping Power win starts in a couple of weeks.
“I’m looking forward to helping my team win the championship. I work hard to help my team”

27 March 2015

NIGERIA : D'Tigers Secure Qualification for 2015 Afrobasket

The Nigeria national men basketball team, D'Tigers late on Wednesday booked their tickets to the African Basketball Cup of Nations and All African Games competition after defeating visiting Burkina-Faso national basketball team 63-50 points.
The game was the second leg qualifier for Afrobasket and AAG competitions, after the Burkinabes lost the first leg to Nigeria about a week ago.
Straight from the jump ball, the D'Tigers made their intention known with a dazzling display in the first quarter of the game.
The duo of Yahaya Abdul and Stanley Gumut (both Mark Mentors players) stole the show in the second quarter to give Nigeria an accelerated points lead before the end of first half.
Burkina Faso came rampaging in the third quarter of second half due to injury suffered by D'Tigers talisman, Abubakar Usman (Nda Abu) which also led to the drop in the D'Tigers performance till the end of the game.
By the fourth quarter, D'Tigers got their grooves back and ended the game on a high note, to the admiration of the scanty crowd that graced the National Stadium Lagos.
Speaking with journalists after the game, D'Tigers coach, Sanni Ahmed, said the journey to Afrobasket had just started and the team would not relax until the nation wins the elusive Afrobasket trophy.
President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Tijani Umar, expressed joy at the team's victory, while also acknowledging the valuable contributions of back room staffs, most especially Skambo Morrison the welfare manager, Akinkunle Bolarinwa, the media officer and not forgetting Emmanuel Odah the equipment manager of the team.
According to Umar, the success of the team is incomplete without the ingenuity of these three great guys.
D'Tigers welfare manager, Skambo Morrison said that the entire D'tigers crew were grateful to Nigerians for their support and expected them to accord the same hospitality and support to women's national team, the D'Tigress, when they hit camp in May.

GAMBIA : YMCA-Brikama in Basketball League Opener

The Gambia Basketball League season is set to resume with Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) to square with Brikama.
The encounter billed for the Independence Stadium will mark the opening of the Gambia basketball domestic championship this Saturday.Basketball is one of the sports scaling the height in a football and wrestling dominated country. Played around the country, the 2015 league new season only confirms the game's rising status.
Saturday's encounter will see YMCA female side aim a dagger at Serrekunda West in an early kick-off before the 7pm big showdown of Brikama-YMCA male league opener.
The following fixture features SK West up against Manjai April 4th.
That encounter will witness yet another female competition with Kotu grinding it out with PCAM.

26 March 2015

RWANDA : Basketball Federation Turns to Schools


The basketball federation Ferwaba is now focusing on promoting and developing school basketball.
"We received a fund from the Olympic Solidarity offered through Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee. The initiative is called the International Sports Development Program which benefits all federations so that they can develop referees and detect talent in schools," explained Ferwaba technical director Shema Maboko.
"The program started in January and will end in June with fifteen schools, both boys and girls younger than 18. We will then select the best players to feature in the U16 and U18 national teams," he added.
"We are yet to organize several school competitions, which will be done in collaboration with the Rwanda School Sports Federation (RSSF)," Mboko explained. "We help RSSF by training coaches and referees so that they can identify talent."
"Currently we do not have any partnership with other others as far as training is concerned, but we work hand in hand with Zone Africa as well as the International Basketball Federation," Mboko added.
Rwanda will host the U16 Zone Five competition for boys and girls scheduled from May 25 to 31.

UGANDA : Henry Malinga could join KIU Titans


Warriors' center Henry Malinga could be on his way to KIU Titanns Warriors' center Henry Malinga could be on his way to KIU Titanns
With a lot of uncertainties surrounding Warriors Basketball Club, departures are inevitable. Sitting in the departure lounge of the two-time champions is game legend, Henry Malinga.
The veteran center could be announced a KIU Titans player early next week as the university side embarks on a revolution to stamp their place in the National Basketball League.
Malinga has reportedly been talking to Power but latest reports suggested the veteran center is headed to KIU much as the Warriors management says he is not going anywhere.
KIU Titans have made a real motion towards strengthening the team to compete at high level with City Oilers, Power and Falcons. Their triumph in the inaugural tournament showed KIU are capable of competing not just by defending but are a scoring team.
Malinga will be KIU’s third addition as the university side already signed up forwards Geoffrey Soro and Norman Blick. Malinga and Blick do not just add loads of experience to the university side that is yet to see glory in the National Basketball League but the pair add the competitive edge.
The Kansanga based institutional team has always made a good account during the normal season but have over the years failed to make an impact in the post season and the acquisition of Malinga, Blick and Soro to add to Edwin Katerega, Chris Omanye and the rest of the guys might take them a long way at making an impact in the playoffs

24 March 2015

KENYA : USIU-A set flames to Oryx/Mennonites


By francis marangu
Mar 24, 2015
  • No help in sight for Brenda Mwaniki of Kenyatta University Oryx as her way is blocked by USIU-A's Cynthia Irankunda. USIU-A won 90-28. (Photo by Shutterspeed)
United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) men and women's basketball teams registered high scores at the weekend in the Kenya Basketball Federation national classic league at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium.
Both teams were just shy of the century mark. The women's team were first on the court against another university side, Kenyatta University Oryx. They comfortably won 90-28.
This was a one-sided game as USIU-A restricted Oryx to single digit scores in all quarters winning 21-6, 21-8, 20-7 and 28-7 respectively.
Diane Nikose was the top scorer for USIU-A with 16 points and Cynthia Irankunda raked in 13. Berine Okoth scored seven points for Oryx and Rosetta Ngugi added five.
From the free-throw line, USIU-A scored 19 points against Oryx's 11 while 15 points for USIU-A came off the three-point shots against three for Oryx.
This was the second straight win for the students after they opened with a narrow  66-45 win over Ulinzi Blades.
Debutants Strathmore Swords broke no sweat in their first game of the season after being  awarded a 20-0 walkover win against Mennonites who failed to show up.
In another match Sprite Storms beat Kenya College of Accountancy- University (KCA-U) 63-14. Linet Mukiri top-scored for Storms with 16 points and Celestine Isabwa replied with seven for KCA-U.
First win of the season
USIU-A Tigers, the men's team overran Mennonites 98-52. Alex Ramazani scored a game high of 31 points to lead the students to their first win of the season in two games.
They followed the same script authored by the women's team dominating the game and winning the quarters 28-15, 26-11, 19-16 and 25-10 respectively.
Collins Ochieng had 14 points for Mennonites and Felix Ochieng13. The shooting superiority of USIU-A was evident as they made 14 free-throws against Mennonites’ nine and three 3-point shots against one for their opponents.
Zetech University made a winning debut in the league beating a hurriedly-assembled Nairobi Aviation College 68-52. Joshua Kisali scored five three-point shots to top score for Zetech with 23 points. Ben Oluoch scored a game high 32 points for Nairobi Aviation.
Zetech won the first three quarters 16-11, 20-8 and 16-12 before Nairobi Aviation carried home the consolation fourth 21-16. Nairobi Aviation sunk14 free-throws against Zetech’s 10 while Zetech had eight three-point shots against Nairobi Aviation’s four.
Jeremy Yongo, the Zetech captain said the start was good but acknowledged that hard work lies ahead. “We cannot say this win reflects how the season will look like for us. There are more tougher teams to meet later on,” he told sportsnewsarena.com.
“As a team, we know the difference between where we have come from and where we are in terms of competition. We are well prepared for anything.” Yongo added.
Missed three key players
Co-operative Bank who were without head coach Carey Odhiambo and three key players beat Kenya Airports Authority 61-49. Frederick Odongo scored 16 points and Salim Ali 14. KAA’s top scorer was Luka Lukongo with 13.
Blades from Strathmore University completed a winless weekend for Mennonites winning 79-59.
Meanwhile, USIU-A (women) and Strathmore University (men) will represent Nairobi Conference in the Zuku Universities Basketball League national finals. The two qualified after emerging top in their respective categories during the finals held on Friday.
Strathmore beat Zetch University 64-62 in the final. George Okoth scored 16 points for Strathmore with Jeremy Opiyo top-scoring for Zetech with 15.
In the women's category,  USIU-A beat Strathmore University 58-33.
KBF Results: KCA University 67 ANU 54, Zetech University 68 Nairobi Aviation College 52, USIU-A Tigers 98 Mennonites 52, USIU-A Flames 90 KU Oryx 28, ANU 71 Parklands Baptist 32, Storms 63 KCA-U 14, Co-op Bank 61 KAA 49, Blades 79 Mennonites 59.

RWANDA : Espoir cruise to top of hoops league table

photo
Olivier Shyaka scored 13 points in Espoir's 72-35 win over UR-CoE on Sunday. It was their third straight win in as many games. (File)
Sunday
Espoir 72-35 UR-CoE
IPRC-Kigali 64-39 Rusizi
30-Plus 57-64 CSK
Saturday
APR 65-69 Espoir
30-Plus 67-46 UR-CoE
CSK 78-62 IPRC-Kigali
UGB 72-42 UR-CASS
Patriots 88-34 Rusizi
Friday
CSK 65-51 UR-CASS
Espoir 68-51 UGB
Three-time reigning champions Espoir BC thrashed struggling UR-College of Education 72-35 on Sunday at Amahoro stadium to join UGB and CSK at the top of the National Basketball League standings.
The Nyamirambo-based side jointly lead the table log with 13 points along with United Generation Basketball (UGB) and Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK), however, the latter two have played a game more.
Before Sunday’s win over UR-CoE, Jean Bahufite’s team had earlier defeated archrivals APR 69-65 on Saturday as well as UGB 68-51 on Friday evening respectively.
On Sunday at Amahoro indoor stadium, 19-year-old youngster Bruno Nyamwasa led Espoir charge with game high 25 points while Olivier Shyaka and Ian Mugabo contributed 13 points apiece.
Speaking to Times Sport on Monday, Espoir coach Bahufite said, “I have to admit things went really well for us this weekend. To win three games in three days is not an easy feat so I must congratulate my players for the effort they put in to make sure we achieve our target.”
editorial@newtimes.co.rw

23 March 2015

ZAMBIA : Magic are national champs

LUSAKA – Matero Magic on Sunday won the National Basketball Championship title after beating Unza Pacers 3-1 in a five-match series at Olympic Youth Development Centre in Lusaka.
Magic won three sets while Pacers managed one victory with the other ending in a draw.
In the first set, Magic beat Pacers 63-60 and 75-66 in the second set but Pacers bounced back in the third set to claim a 75-70 victory.
Magic triumphed 30-11 in the fourth match to seal the national championship title. The final set ended in a 66-66 draw.

ZAMBIA : Green Eagles tipped to bounce back to top four


LOOTERS LCC BASKETBALL
HOOPS with MWEMBE KAONA
IN OVER six weeks from now, the 2015 basketball season will take off and if there is a team many hope will bounce back to being title challengers, it is the Sankisha Chilwesa-drilled Green Eagles.
Eagles have in the past three years struggled for a top-four finish.
Eagles are an outfit with a lot of depth in terms of experience but lack on the aspect of fresh blood though that should not deter them from crossing the line to play in the national championships series at the close of the regional league.
In 2007, Eagles were Zambia’s envoys at the Falcons Invitation International tournament and performed considerably well, though not well enough to win the coveted top prize.
At that time, the uncompromising Aggrey Kabalata was head coach and during his reign, the side had a competitive edge against opponents, but one cannot say his departure is the reason for their dwindled rating.
Chilwesa is a dedicated and promising trainer with a lot of commitment and passion for his side, determined to learn at every opportunity.
His cast of players, who include Francis Chibebela, ‘Sharp shooter’ Obert Muleza and Luke Manzili need to rise to the occasion and revive the team’s fortunes.
There is also need for the side to beef up in order to fill gaps left by David ‘eLTee’ Chinunda and Lawrence ‘JB’ Mulongwa.
Another side that will be a focal point is Heroes Play United, who will make a return to top flight basketball after a season in the second division.
The former national basketball kings had a disappointing 2013 season, which saw them go down from the A League to the B League, something that was unthinkable considering the team’s rich background.
But it was with humility that trainer-cum-manager Maziko Phiri accepted fate, saying it was going to serve as an opportunity to reflect and rebuild the team. Hopefully, they are back to stay.
Last week, I discussed the issues of coach versus referees and as expected there were some responses, though with caution from affected sectors.
Connell Kandala from Kitwe did not seem to dispute but posed a question on what the solution to poor officiating would be, while Eagles coach Chilwesa was of the view that the subject was food for thought.
An official who declined to be named charged that the onus was on the coaches to ensure their players were well prepared to win a game and not go on court to argue with match officials.
He said coaches are responsible for drilling players, mentally preparing them and drawing game plans. Therefore, referees have no hand in a team’s technical failure, especially if it is losing a match.
I will discuss possible solutions to concerns by both parties next week, but for now, I may add that both sides of the coin share the blame.
The national championship between UNZA Pacers and Matero Magic has been an interesting affair.
More on this later. Have a blessed week!
mdkaona@gmail.com

ZAMBIA : ZBA veep thinks big

women basketball
MWEMBE KAONA, Ndola
ZAMBIA Basketball Association vice-president in charge of the Northern region Andrew Nyirenda has appealed to clubs to put in place proper management structures in a bid to enhance the development of the sport.
And International Basketball Federation coaching instructor Ronnie Owino has urged local coaches to continuously update their knowledge of the game through various training programmes.
Speaking at the close of a ten-day Olympic Solidarity /FIBA young coaches module one clinic in Ndola on Thursday, Nyirenda said some clubs were making slow progress in developing as they had no proper management structures in place.
“The situation where one person is the team manager, coach and chairman at the same time must be changed and we should be looking at bringing more people on board in our clubs,” Nyirenda said.
He thanked the National Olympic Committee of Zambia for facilitating the course through the International Olympic Committee and urged participants to share knowledge gained.
Meanwhile, the Nairobi based expert Owino said in his experience as a coach, success was achieved through hard work and an unending desire to learn as the game was ever changing.
And NOCZ board member Stephen Simpemba, who presented certificates, implored participants to return to their bases and share knowledge with their colleagues.
The clinic drew 19 participants from various parts of the country namely Chingola, Choma, Kitwe, Livingstone, Lusaka Mansa, Mpika, Monze and Ndola.
The FIBA module one clinic is the first level qualification under the continental basketball body structure of grading courses.

NIGERIA : d'Tigers Win South African Invitational Tournament


It was a glorious moment for the D'Tigers of Nigeria as they emerged champions at the just concluded four-nation invitational challenge tournament in South Africa.
The likes of Kenya, South Africa and Mozambique were no match for the D'Tigers as the team inflicted defeat on their opponents.
The four-nation tournament climaxed when Nigeria defeated Mozambique 72-59 in a reverse fixture that pitched the two top teams in the final game.
Markmentors and D'Tigers player, Stanley Gumut, was voted the most valuable player of the tournament after a scintillating display that got the fans captivated all through the tournament.
Nigeria's men basketball team won all four games during the challenge to remain undefeated. This pushes the D'Tigers road trip to five away victories since defeating Burkina Faso in the Afrobasket 2015 All African Games qualifier last Monday.
The President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Tijani Umar, congratulated the players and officials for a job well done.
"I want to thank the players and congratulate them, I really appreciate their efforts in putting all their best in the success of this team" he was quoted in a press statement signed by the Teams Media Officer, Akinkunle Bolarinwa.
"The second hurdle is to see Nigeria qualify for the 2015 nations cup in Tunisia and we are looking forward to qualifying for the Afrobasket" he said.
The team is expected to return to Nigeria on Tuesday.

UGANDA : Enabu’s biggest moment arrives with MVP crown

Kampala
Jimmy Enabu lacks the appropriate language to describe his feelings. For a player from a family with a great basketball tradition, time spent honing skills left little for public speaking lessons.
His skills will hold him in good stead as he can now claim to be the best player here after being the 2014 basketball men’s playoffs Most Valuable Player on Saturday night at Sheraton Hotel. The shooting guard beat off competition from City Oilers’ teammates Ben Komakech, a two-time winner, and Kami Kabange, dethroning the latter to basketball’s ultimate individual accolade.
No wonder Enabu could hardly speak. He stood on the podium, clearly struggling to take in the moment. His transition to the pinnacle from being a role player at Tiger Head Power in 2013 is complete. “
Thank you all,” Enabu said, in between pauses. As he made his way through a packed Rwenzori Ball Room to the podium under dim lights, Enabu hugged all his teammates.
Fittingly, Kabange got the last hug and whispered words of wisdom. Some must have felt Kabange deserved it more having averaged 18.3 points and just under 10 rebounds in the playoffs.
Enabu was not too far behind with an average of 16 points which culminated in a 4-0 finals sweep of Power to clinch back-to-back titles. For the finals, Kabange stood at 21 and Enabu on 13. “I never really play for awards or even numbers but it’s a good thing, even for the team,” a calmer Enabu would latter admit when the lights had dimmed. In the women’s category, KCCA Leopards’ forward Claire Lamunnu capped a remarkable year with her first MVP diadem.
She beat teammates Flavia Oketcho, a four-time MVP, and Becky Akulo having led KCCA to stunning comeback against UCU Lady Canons having trailed 3-1 in the seven game series. “I feel honoured,” a soft-spoken Lamunnu, 21 points’ average, said. “Thanks to my team and the management.” Enabu and Lamunnu received their prizes last on a long night that almost shed midnight.
Sudi Ulanga, formerly UCU Canons and now Power, was named regular season MVP, as was UCU Lady Canons’ Purity Odhiambo in the ladies’ category.

21 March 2015

RWANDA : Espoir Eye Win Over UGB, APR in Hoops League


Basketball league defending champions, Espoir BC are keen on registering crucial wins over table leaders UGB and in-form APR this evening and Saturday respectively-both games will be played at Amahoro indoor stadium.
The three-time reigning champions Espoir face United Generation Basketball (UGB) today at 6pm and return to action on Saturday against their biggest rivals and former champions APR at 4pm before entertaining struggling UR- College of Education on Sunday at the same venue at 1pm.
Espoir coach Jean Bahufite told Times Sport yesterday that all players are fit and have had good preparations as they seek to win all their scheduled three games this weekend.
He said, "We are ready, and injury-wise, we don't have anything to worry about, we have had intensive preparations since Monday which I believe can enable us to win all the three games."
"UGB and APR are both in-form, which means that we will have to be at our best to beat them, we need to be careful in these two games but I strongly believe we will prevail," Bahufite acknowledged.
Table leaders UGB will also play against UR- College of Arts and Social Sciences on Saturday at 11am at KIST courts. UR-CASS face last year's first runners-up Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) this evening at 6pm at the latter's home court in Rugunga.
UGB top the league log with 12 points from seven matches, APR who have played one game less, are second with a point adrift while newcomers IPRC- South stand third with 10 points.
Holders Espoir are on eighth position in the 12-team table with 7 points from four matches.
Today
Espoir vs UGB 6pm
CSK vs UR-CASS
Saturday
30-Plus vs UR-CoE 10am
UGB vs UR-CASS 11am
CSK vs IPRC-Kigali 12pm
Patriots vs Rusizi 2pm
APR vs Espoir 4pm
Sunday
IPRC-Kigali vs Rusizi 9am
30-Plus vs CSK 11am
Espoir vs UR-CoE 1pm

KENYA : Tough lessons for youthful Kenya in four nations


The young Kenyan team was highly exposed at the ongoing Four Nations Basketball Challenge in South Africa after losing to Nigeria and Mozambique by big margins as the tourney enters day three on Saturday.
In the first game, they lost 52-83 to Africa powerhouse Nigeria before going down fighting 56-76 to Mozambique on Friday night.
Kenya started off well managing to hold the Mozambicans to a five points difference in the first quarter losing 10-15.
The turning point for Kenya was fifth minute injury to Philip Ameny who was commanding on the court. Before being pulled out, Ameny had scored two points and one blocked shot.
His absence disoriented head coach Carey Odhiambo's game plan. Mozambique won the second quarter 14-8 to lead 29-18 at halftime.
The fighting spirit by Kenya was visible but were let down by poor shooting. Mozambique won third quarter 25-18 and the fourth 22-20 to condemn Kenya to a second successive defeat.
Team manager Joseph Amoko said the losses have been a learning experience for the young lads who need more exposure.
“The boys are trying and we need to be with them for a longer period. We need more games of this caliber and they will be fine,” he said confirming that Ameny was on crutches but his condition is not very serious.
Evans Letting who was the most fielded player with 26:05 minutes top scored for Kenya with 12 points. He grabbed 14 rebounds plus two steals.
Captain Situma Khaemba and Victor Bosire had 5 and 4 assists respectively while Kevin Kigotho had 2 blocks. Valentine Nyakinda had 9 defensive rebounds and 2 offensive rebounds.
Francisco Macaringue and Augusto Matos jointly top scored for Mozambique with 13 points each. Ermelindo Novela, Helton Ubisse and Custodio Muchate each grabbed five rebounds.
From the 3-point line, Kenya made one shot from six attempts while 26 baskets were scored from 59 attempts.
Nigeria beat South Africa
Mozambique had 23 attempts making six from the 3-point line while their attempts at the 2-point line were 49 scoring 18. Kenya's shooting precision was poorest at the free-throw line managing only one through Allan Ouma from eleven attempts.
Mozambique attempted 33 free shots making 22. In the Kenyan side, Nyakinda had the highest attempts for two points at 10 scoring six while Bosire had the highest attempts from the 3-point line at 4 scoring once.
Nigeria who beat South Africa 98-57 tops the table with four points same as Mozambique who beat South Africa 80-57 in their opening game. South Africa has a superior number of points scored at 181 against Mozambique’s 156 and the two sides are gunning for the gold.
Kenya and South Africa are winless and will meet on Saturday for the final round-robin encounter. Saturday games will be a replica of Sunday’s when the third place playoff and final will be held.
Locally, league action in the national classic league will continue with a total of ten games. Men premier league newcomers Zetech University will make their league debut against Nairobi Aviation College on Sunday.
USIU face Mennonite
United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) will play Mennonite in men premier and Kenyatta University Oryx in women premier. Kenyatta University Pirates will begin their life in division one with a game against Dankind Academy on Saturday.
Co-operative Bank will face Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) in the top tie of men premier while Mennonite play second game against Blades from Strathmore University.
Strathmore ladies team begin their season with an encounter against Mennonite as Sprite Storms tackle Kenya College of Accountancy- University (KCA-U).
KBF Weekend Fixtures: Saturday- KU Pirates vs Dankind Academy (Nyayo gymnasium, 9am), KCA-U vs ANU (10:30am), KCA-U vs Sprite Storms (12pm), Blades vs Mennonite (2pm), Co-op Bank vs KAA (4pm); Sunday- ANU vs Parklands Baptist (Nyayo gymnasium, 9am), Strathmore Swords vs Mennonite (10:30am), KU Oryx vs USIU Flames (12pm), Mennonite vs USIU Tigers (2pm), Zetech University vs Nairobi Aviation College (4pm).

20 March 2015

UGANDA : Basketball Set to Award the Finest


The basketball fraternity will tomorrow award the outstanding players from the 2014 basketball season in what is expected to be a glamorous function at Sheraton hotel's Rwenzori ball room, writes FELIX EUPAL.
It has been such a long wait that some fans had started giving up on the traditional Fuba dinner. But there was no way Fuba could let 2014 go without commemoration.
The 2014 MVP was a very competitive year, save for City Oilers' whitewash of Tiger Head Power in the play-offs finals, which is why the regular season Most Valuable Player (MVP) gong has many talking and is already stirring emotions among the fans on social media.
The Observer got hold of the list of nominees and besides the play-off list which is obvious, the regular season MVP list for men raises a few eyebrows.
It is shocking that Falcons guard Cyrus Kiviri doesn't make the cut. Neither does UCU Lady Canons' Judith Nansobya in the ladies category, yet her back court play and three-point accuracy kept the team alive in so many games.
For the play-offs MVP award, it is a close call between City Oilers' Ben Komakech, Kami Kabenge and Jimmy Enabu. The trio turned on the style during the play-offs in fighting from 2-0 down to beat UCU Canons 3-2 before humiliating Power 4-0 in the finals.
Komakech was the brains behind the comeback; Kabenge was heart and soul while Enabu was the wheels that run the team. But when the dust settles, Komakech is my pick.
MVP NOMINEES
Regular season (Men)
Ben Komakech (City Oilers)
Kami Kabenge (City Oilers)
Sudi Ulanga (UCU Canons)
Playoff (Men)
Kami Kabenge (City Oilers)
Ben Komakech (City Oilers)
Jimmy Enabu (City Oilers)
Regular season (Ladies)
Purity Odhiambo (Lady Canons)
Claire Lamunu (KCCA Leopards)
Carol Nyafondo (Magic Stormers)
Playoff (Ladies)
Claire Lamunu (KCCA Leopards)
Becky Akullo (KCCA Leopards)

RWANDA : Espoir eye win over UGB, APR in hoops league

photo
Aristide Mugabe (L) will be hoping to lead Espoir to wins over UGB today, APR tomorrow and UR-CASS on Sunday in the hoops league. (P. Muzogeye)
Today
Espoir vs UGB 6pm
CSK vs UR-CASS
Saturday
30-Plus vs UR-CoE 10am
UGB vs UR-CASS 11am
CSK vs IPRC-Kigali 12pm
Patriots vs Rusizi 2pm
APR vs Espoir 4pm
Sunday
IPRC-Kigali vs Rusizi 9am
30-Plus vs CSK 11am
Espoir vs UR-CoE 1pm
Basketball league defending champions, Espoir BC are keen on registering crucial wins over table leaders UGB and in-form APR this evening and Saturday respectively—both games will be played at Amahoro indoor stadium.
The three-time reigning champions Espoir face United Generation Basketball (UGB) today at 6pm and return to action on Saturday against their biggest rivals and former champions APR at 4pm before entertaining struggling UR- College of Education on Sunday at the same venue at 1pm.
Espoir coach Jean Bahufite told Times Sport yesterday that all players are fit and have had good preparations as they seek to win all their scheduled three games this weekend.
He said, “We are ready, and injury-wise, we don’t have anything to worry about, we have had intensive preparations since Monday which I believe can enable us to win all the three games.”
“UGB and APR are both in-form, which means that we will have to be at our best to beat them, we need to be careful in these two games but I strongly believe we will prevail,” Bahufite acknowledged.
Table leaders UGB will also play against UR- College of Arts and Social Sciences on Saturday at 11am at KIST courts.  UR-CASS face last year’s first runners-up Cercle Sportif de Kigali (CSK) this evening at 6pm at the latter’s home court in Rugunga.
UGB top the league log with 12 points from seven matches, APR who have played one game less, are second with a point adrift while newcomers IPRC- South stand third with 10 points.
Holders Espoir are on eighth position in the 12-team table with 7 points from four matches.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw

19 March 2015

GAMBIA : National Basketball League Due to Commence Next Week

The Gambia Basketball Association (GBA) is gearing up for another exciting Basketball League scheduled to kick off next week, after successfully organised its annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, according to a media release issued by the association.
As part of preparations for the new season, the association will hold a press briefing tomorrow, Friday 20th March 2015 at the office of its secretary-general Abdoulie Jallow situated next to The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) office in Kanifing just before Gambia Football House, added the release.

RWANDA : KBC refutes withdrawal claims

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KBC coach player Jean-Guy Rutayisire died early this month in a fatal car accident as the team was travelling to Huye for a league game. (Net photo)

Kigali Basketball Club (KBC) has refuted claims that the club has withdrawn from the ongoing national basketball championship.
There were several reports last week that the 2011 league champions had pulled out of the Hoops league after losing their star player and assistant coach Jean-Guy Rutayisire in a fatal car accident on March 1 while the team was enroute to Huye for a league game.
The accident also left many players with severe injuries, but most of them are recovering steadily.
KBC chairman Calixte Rutajogerwa told Times Sport yesterday that the club is yet to take a decision but will meet soon to decide on the next course of action.
“We have not withdrawn from the league; everything being said is a total lie. We have not decided on what to do next yet, the club’s general assembly will meet soon to take a decision,” Rutajogerwa said in a telephone interview.
Meanwhile the Rwanda Basketball Federation (Ferwaba) told the club to take as much time as they want to make decision on what they will do next.
Only two players-Junior Hamis Mutebi and Meshach Ryamungu are still under intensive care. The rest have been discharged.
As a measure of compassion, Police Football Club contributed Rwf 100,000 towards medical bills of KBC players.
editorial@newtimes.co.rw

18 March 2015

KENYA : Kenya Host South Africa in Four Nation Tourney Opener


KENYA open their Four Nations Challenge basketball tournament against former Africa champions Nigeria at the Wembley Indoor Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa tomorrow.
The Kenyans who are due to depart this afternoon for the games should expect a stiff championships considering the calibre of teams involved. Basketball South Africa deputy president Albert Mokoena noted that Kenya, Nigeria and Mozambique are among the most vibrant teams on the continent and would pose greatest competition for the host nation.
According to the draws, the main match of the evening will see South Africa play Mozambique. On Friday, South Africa face Nigeria as Kenya entertain Mozambique. The last day of the competition will see Mozambique take on Nigeria while South Africa closes the three-day show against Kenya.
On the local league front, University of Nairobi 'Terrorists' stunned Lions 60-50 in a top clash at Nyayo Stadium gymnasium. William Mayiel nailed 16 points for the winners while the losers had game high 23 including a stunning 17 in one stretch from Opiyo. In the women's tie, Eagle Wings hit Kenyatta University 'Oryx' 52-24. Player/coach Evelyne Kedogo and Lucy Machuma each picked up 12 points while Berine Okoth had 10 for KU.
In Mombasa, reigning men's champions KPA beat Equity Bank 70-56. New signing Aroun Ramadhan led the way with 14 points and Anthony Okello had 13. Paul Nyakinda scored 15 for the losers.
KPA women on the other hand, walloped Equity Bank 76-58, behind 21 points from Yvonne Akinyi while Hellen Oketch registered 14. The bankers Samba Mjomba posted 20.
In the lower division matches in Nairobi, newly promoted Emyba lost their opener as they went down 73-59 to Trailblazers who had Michael Ligare collecting 20 points. Baraka Xtreme home game was moved from Thika and they lost 67-55, behind 16 points from Samuel Soicha. Blazers nipped new boys Don Bosco 47-46 as Joseph Koech nailed 13 poin

17 March 2015

TANZANIA : Bugando Planet Retain Mwanza Basketball Title


Mwanza — HEAD of Tanzania Posts Corporation in Mwanza region, Julius Chifungo, has congratulated the Bugando Planet for being crowned Mwanza regional basketball champions. Planet beat Profile 96-81 in the final match played at Bank of Tanzania (BoT) Ground, Pasiansi on Sunday to retain the title.
Chifungo paid special tribute to the acting chairman of Mwanza Regional Basketball Association (MRBA) Acting Chairman, Juvenile Kaiza, for its greet support in developing basketball talent.
Bugando also produced the league's best player in Amos Semberia. The champions received a golden cup, medals and certificate of participation, while the runners-up got a silver cup, medals and certificate. The league involved nine teams from the region.
They were Bugando Planet, Profile, Pasiansi Dolphins, Butimba Spiders, Mwanza Eagles, Warriors, Heat, St Augustine University of Tanzania (Saut) and Bugando CUHAS. Kaiza said after the league they are now organizing a basketball bonanza to be held on Sunday. "We're glad that the league is over.
We faced many challenges such as lack of basketball facilities and teams like Mwanza Eagles and Butimba Eagles refused to play some of their matches," he said.

ZIMBABWE : JBC Wins Bob 91 B/Ball Tourney


ZIMBABWE'S JBC basketball team scooped gold at the Bob 91 tournament after beating Matero of Zambia 46-38 in the final at Belvedere Teachers College over the weekend.
On the road to the final, JBC beat Hustlers 53-42 in the semi-finals in a very competitive match.
Vixens won the women's section after beating Lakers 38-33 in the final.
Bob 91 basketball tournament chairman, Tendai "T-Buns" Zhakata, said they were happy with the level of the performance at the tourney.
"The local clubs performed well and made us proud as the title remained at home after JBC defeated the Zambian team in the final.
"The weekend was a wonderful time for us and we enjoyed watching the games.
"Now, we are looking forward to the awards night where we are going to give out the prizes," said Zhakata.
Tatenda Maturure was the outstanding player for JBC.
The sponsors for the prestigious Bob 91 tournament included Irvines, Koala Meats and Tendo Electronics.
In the schools section, Conway College, ruled the roost after beating Churchill 39-34 in the final and walked away with a floating trophy.
Girls High won the girls category after beating Goromonzi 30-15 in the final.

16 March 2015

SOMALIA : Historic Basketball Tournament Concluded in Garowe

First Basketball tournament for nearly 21 years was concluded in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland state on Friday afternoon. At least three teams from three regions were playing the competition at Garowe technical School.
Members from Puntland Diaspora community have organized the event to energize Basketball role in peace building. Retired Somali basketball legend Mohamed Madobe said the tournament was held to endorse region's sports progress.
In his opening remarks, Puntland minster for youth and Sports Abdurahman Shikh Ahmed acknowledged Diaspora activities and called them to return home.
"People in here are very skillful, but they need coaching and it's why I come here. I left my family and children in Canada to serve my nation "Madoobe said. Nugaal region players won the trophy following a tough final with Mudug region team.
The minister said that Puntland administration is working to empower sports, urging youths to stay connected. Somalia's northeastern regional state of Puntland has been fighting Al-shabaab fighters in Gal-gala Mountains.

KENYA : Equity fall to KPA in league opener, USIU beat Ulinzi


  • USIU Flames Cynthia Irankunda in a past league match.(Photo by Shutterspeed)
Equity Bank ladies basketball team had a false start in their premier league debut losing 58-76 to Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in Mombasa.
KPA fielded their new signings of Linda Nyikuli and Evelyn Nora both from Eagle Wings as well as Evelyn Itabo formerly with Safe Spaces and Anne Ndela.
Defending champions United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) beat Ulinzi Blades 66-45 at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium. Sarah Chan led the scores with 13 points while Zipporah Adhiambo added 11.
New signing from Co-operative Bank Melissa Akinyi scored 8 points. She was brought on board to fill the void left by Hilda Indasi who decamped to Equity Bank.
New signing for Ulinzi Brenda Odula from Eagle Wings scored 15 points to lead the soldiers. Rose Aketch had 14 points coming off ten free throws and two baskets.
USIU-A scored 15 points from the free throw line and 15 from 3-point shots against Ulinzi’s 21 at the free throw line and 9 from 3-point shots.
The students were dominant in the entire game winning all quarters 11-10, 15-8, 16-9 and 24-18 respectively.
Ulinzi used new players who include Florence Mbithe from Safe Spaces, Dorothy Egessa, Maxim Agusta and Jane Mugwanga.
Former champions Eagle Wings who have seen most of their key players depart beat Kenyatta University Oryx 52-24.
In the men's premier, newcomers Umoja lost their first game going down 51-67 away to Nakuru Club while champions KPA beat Equity Bank 70-56 with their new signings Arou Ramadhan, Athiey Lwal and Valentine Nyakinda.
University of Nairobi Terrorists were 60-50 winners over Lions. Ulinzi Warriors kicked off their campaign with a 64-53 win over USIU-A who proved to be a worthy opponent.
New signing Joshua Okumu and Victor Odendo top scored for Ulinzi with 13 points each. Okumu grabbed 4 rebounds and 5 steals while Odendo had 2 rebounds. John Washika grabbed 6 rebounds and 3 steals.
For USIU-A, Kevin Kigotho scored highest with 16 points while Mike Opinya and Kevin Bosire scored 12 points each. Ulinzi led 43-30 at halftime after losing first quarter 15-19 and winning the second 28-11. The second half was balanced as Ulinzi won third quarter 11-9 and USIU-A the fourth 14-10.
Barclays Bank needed overtime to beat Africa Nazarene University (ANU) 83-67 in division one. The game tied at 63-all in regulation time after Barclays led 27-22 at halftime.
First quarter went to the bankers 19-10 and the second to ANU 12-8. Barclays claimed the third 20-13 before ANU pushed the game to overtime with a 28-16 win in the fourth. In added time, Romanov O'Connor, Franklin Delano and Mike Lopokoiyit scored 6 points each to help Barclays win 20-4.
O'Connor top scored with a game high 25 points for Barclays while ANUs top scorer was Kenneth Ndung’u with 17 points, Bryan Jarret added 14 and Jarret Ouma 13.
Results: ANU 67 Barclays Bank 80, USIU Flames 66 Ulinzi Blades 45, USIU Tigers 53 Ulinzi Warriors 64, UoN Terror 60 Lions 50, Nakuru Club 65 Umoja 51, Eagle Wings 52 KU Oryx 24.

14 March 2015

KENYA : Carol Ouma takes charge at Co-op Bank

  • Victor Odendo of Ulinzi shields the ball from Joseph Khaemba in a previous league match. The season throws off this weekend. (Photo by Shutterspeed)
Carol Ouma, a FIBA-accredited coach will be in charge at Co-operative Bank women's basketball team when the 2015 Kenya Basketball Federation season begins this weekend.
She replaces Robert Mugabe who led the team to a third-place finish last season. Ouma has a playing career spanning eleven years having made club basketball debut in 2004 with Railways Club before playing for Sprite Storms and Eastern Queens.
She has been a player at Co-op Bank for four years. It is not always easy taking up a coaching role but she is prepared for the tough transition from a player to coach. “It is okay because I know most of the players having played together for years. There will be no difficulties at all.”
Truphosa Mochachi from University of Nairobi Dynamites and Beryl Akoth from NYTA Shimba Hills are the only new players at the team. Her first major assignment will be leading the bankers this weekend away to Western Delight and newcomers Kisumu Lady Bucks.
The major change in the women premier league is late withdrawal of Safe Spaces featured in the playoffs last season. They have opted to play in the Nairobi Basketball Association league due to financial difficulties.
Last season, it was a big challenge for the club to honor their fixtures. “Our key donor for the team passed on last month and we are not financially able to support a premier league team with league fee and away matches,” team manager Peninah Nthenya confirmed.
Debutants Equity Bank who signed Hilda Indasi from United States International University- Africa (USIU-A) begin their campaign away against Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). The dockers lost one of their key player Lynette Atieno to Nigerian side First Bank.
Champions USIU-A will begin their title defense against military side Ulinzi.
Men's premier league newcomers Zetech University were not very active in the transfer market signing two players only. Keith Ondu and Ayuel Ayuel joined from Dankind Academy while Joshua Okumu left for Ulinzi Warriors.
Worried coach Munene
As the season begins, head coach Job Munene is a worried man. “We are in a higher league now but its like we are still in division one,” he told sportsnewsarena.com. “Remuneration for players needs to improve so that it becomes easy attracting players from other clubs which did not happen. It’s the reason why we did not sign the players we wanted for the new season.”
He is not happy the players are still enjoying the same allowances as they did last season when they played in Division One but expects things to be sorted out before playing their first game.
Zetech not in is action this weekend. “Of course players get demoralized when promises are made and never fulfilled. We just hope it will not affect our campaign but if things are tough there is the mid-season transfer window which we can utilize.”
Co-operative Bank, the former champions are ready to fight back and reclaim the title this season. They have signed six new players, three from the premier league and three from division one.
They are; Job Byron (Nairobi Aviation College), Evans Ochieng (Kenya Airports Authority), Denis Ongwae (Lions), Fidel Muga (Little Prince) as well as duo of Mawich Thruuma and Athiel Lwal from Dankind Academy were selected after a series of trials.
The bankers have lost Nick Anyang who rejoined Nakuru Club and Eric Olum who has retired. Another boost for Co-op Bank is the return to action of Titus Musembi and David Ogolla. They missed the second leg of last season serving suspension. Captain Brian Busu says other teams should expect a new Co-op Bank.
“We will have new things this season because we want to recapture the title,” he assured. “Last season, we lost two players to suspension while Khaemba Situma left for USIU-A mid-season which was not easy. They were our key players. With Musembi and Ogolla back plus the new signings, we are more than ready.”
Muya returns to Lions
Lions who play University of Nairobi Terrorists on Saturday expect to bring on board Lewis Muya who is returning to the country after completing his studies in USA. He previously played for the club.
Collins Ochieng and Marvin Odhiambo have joined from Nairobi Aviation College and Humphrey Mbande from Parklands Baptist.
Ulinzi, Last season’s losing finalist will be up against USIU-A on Sunday in their opening fixture. Apart from Okumu, they have signed three other players in Elvis Akoyi, Ronald Kipruto and John Washika all from KAA.
Fixtures
March 14: Baraka X-treme vs World Hope (Thika, 10am), MKU Thika vs Parklands Baptist (11:30), Eldonets vs Lakeside (UG, 10am), KPA Ladies vs Equity Bank (KPA, 2pm), KPA Men vs Equity Bank (4pm), Nakuru Club vs Umoja (MHS, 11am), EMYBA vs Trailblazers (Nyayo gymnasium, 9am), Blazers vs Don Bosco (10:30), Eagle Wings vs KU Oryx (12pm), Strathmore University vs Thunder (2pm), Lions vs Terror (4pm), Western Delight vs Co-op Bank (KPC, 10am); March 15: Kisumu Lady Bucks vs Co-op Bank (KSG, 11am), ANU vs Barclays Bank (9am, Nyayo gymnasium), Upper Hill vs IAT-Little Prince (10:30am), Dankind Academy vs 4-Christ (12pm), USIU Flames vs Ulinzi Blades (2pm), USIU Tigers vs Ulinzi Warriors.

RWANDA : Hoops league resumes after two weeks break

photo
UGB (Green) will be up against CSK while Patriots (Blue) will played against defending champions Espoir at Amahoro indoor stadium. (S. Ngendahimana)


Today
Men
UR-CoE         vs                    IPRC-South  10am
UGB               vs                    CSK
APR               vs                    IPRC-Kigali   2pm
Patriots         vs                    Espoir            6pm
Women
Ubumwe      vs                    APR                12pm
UR-CASS      vs                    The Hoops Rwanda          4pm
Sunday
Men
Rusizi              vs                    30-Plus         9am
IPRC-Kigali      vs                    UR-CASS      10am
UGB                vs                    IPRC-South  2pm
CSK                 vs                    UR-CoE         4pm
Women
The Hoops Rwanda          vs                    APR                12pm
The National Basketball League returns after a two-week break. The league was halted after Kigali Basketball Club players were involved in fatal car accident which claimed their coach-player Jean-Guy Rutayisire.
The future of KBC in the league is still uncertain and will not play this weekend. The former champions lost one player and four others got severe injuries in the tragic accident.
On-form APR face a confident IPRC-Kigali side that ended Espoir’s three-year unbeaten run three weeks ago—the game will be played at Amahoro indoor stadium, starting at 2pm.
Kicukiro-based IPRC-Kigali will also be in action on Sunday, entertaining UR-College of Arts and Social Sciences at the same venue at 10am.
Meanwhile, reigning champions Espoir will be up against new league entrants Patriots BC at Amhoro indoor stadium at 6pm.
United Beneration Basketball (UGB) club face last year’s first runners-up CSK at the latter’s court in Rugunga while struggling UR- College of Education face IPRC-South at Amahoro at 10am.
In women’s league, defending champions Ubumwe BC face seven-time champions APR at 12pm at Amahoro indoor stadium.

13 March 2015

TANZANIA : Tanzania to Participate in Africa Zone Five Basketball Championships

TANZANIA will participate in the U-16 Africa Zone five championships in Rwanda from May 25-31, this year. The country is also expected to participate in the U-23 Zone Five Championship in Cairo, Egypt.
Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF) Secretary General Sale Zonga said in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday they have already confirmed their participation in the two events.
"We are going to take part in the U-16 and U-23 Africa Zone five championships in Rwanda and Egypt because we want our teams to gain international experience and exposure," he said.
He, however, admitted the federation is currently facing financial constraints. The Rwanda tournament will involve all 10 countries in the zone - Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Uganda and the hosts.
The winners will qualify for the FIBA Afrobasket U-16 tournament with the girls' edition scheduled for July 16-24 in Madagascar and the boys' to be held in Mali in July. Egypt has already qualified in both categories.
Rwanda will also host the Zone V Club Championships from October 4-11 to accommodate Uganda who will represent the region at the FIBA Afrobasket men's Championships in Tunis, Tunisia from August 19-30.
Zone 5 women's champions Uganda will compete at the All-Africa Games in Congo Brazzaville from September 5-19 as well as the FIBA Afrobasket Women's Championships in Yaounde, Cameroon from September 24-October 3.
Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) are confident they have the capacity to organize successful tournaments, having hosted the 2009 FIBA Afrobasket Men's Championships in 2010, FIBA Africa U-18 Championships and the 2011 Zone V Championship.

NIGERIA : D'Tigers Storm Ouagadougou for Afrobasket Qualifier Today


As Oyedeji hails team's preparation
The Nigeria senior men basketball team, D'Tigers will travel to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso today for the first leg tie against the Burkinabe in group E double qualifiers for the 29th Afrobasket and the 11th All Africa Games.
The 18-man Nigerian contingent, led by the president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Tijjani Umar will slug it out with Burkina Faso on Monday, with the return leg slated for March 25 in Nigeria.
The squad is made up of 12 players, with 10 of them drawn from the Nigerian DStv Premier Basketball League and two foreign-based stars.
Nigeria's hope of making her 17th appearance at Africa's biggest basketball showpiece rest on coaches Sani Ahmed and Ayinla Johnson and the 12 players that include Olumide Oyedeji (centre), Ejike Ugboaja (forward), Stanley Gumut (forward), Abubakar Usman (guard), Matthew Onmonya (forward) and Ibrahim Yusuf (guard/forward).
Other players in the squad are Adeolu Olaiya Ojo (guard), Abdulwahab Yakubu (guard), Abdulwahab Yahaya (forward), Azuoma Dike (guard), Dele Ademola (forward) and Abayomi Oyeniyi (forward).
The delegation also has Muktar Khaleh, Patrick Okeke (S.G, NBBF); Patrick Omorodion (media); Dr. Ohida Suleiman (team doctor) and Dayo Ogunkunle (physio).
Coach Sani Ahmed has assured that the team will not disappoint Nigerians as the players and its handlers have their mind set on picking the sole slot from the group.
"We respect our opponent (Burkina Faso) but they are not capable of stopping from qualifying for both the Afrobasket and All Africa Games as we looking forward to challenging for the Afrobasket title and also defending our All Africa Games gold medal won four years ago in Mozambique.
"The players are ready to prove that they are worthy ambassadors of Nigeria basketball and mentally, physically and psychological prepared for the two-leg qualifier", Ahmed concluded.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian camp was in high spirit yesterday following the arrival of veteran D'Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji.
The London Lions center who completed his second training with the team yesterday, disclosed that the team is in high spirit and will come back to Lagos for the 2nd leg with nothing short of victory.
"The guys are set and we are ready. All we want to qualify for Tunisia 2015 and that's what we plan to do in Burkina Faso and later at home here in Nigeria".
Oyedeji joins former NBA draftee Ejike Ugboaja, who is set for Greece after the qualifiers, following his move from Turkish 2nd Division League side Istanbul Teknik Universiti, where he starred in the 2013/2014 season, as the only foreign based players in the squad.
The team leaves for Burkina Faso capital via Asky Airline on Friday for the March 16 encounter.

KENYA : Eagle Wings Lose Key Players Ahead of League

FORMER national champions Eagle Wings have lost three key players ahead of the Premier League starting this weekend.
Coach Evelyne Kedogo confirmed some of her top players have moved to rivals Kenya Ports Authority but promised to soldier on with those still loyal to the self-sponsored club.
The depleted Wings open their 2015 campaign against Kenya University 'Oryx' tomorrow. "My team has lost some key players but we will move on. I am looking for new players to beef up the squad and I am sure I will succeed," said Kedogo. She said she is also ready to swing back to action need be.
The three players who have some fat bolted are national team forward Evelyne Norah, guard Annerose Atieno and Linda Nyikuli. KPA coach Anthony Ojukwu was in Nairobi for a recruitment drive that saw him raid the Africa bronze medallists backyard to acquire the services of the trio.
He said the signing of the players is key to his drive to reclaim the crown. But Kenya Basketball Federation competition secretary Joseph Amoko warned all the teams that have signed new players to be ready to clear their transfer fees or risk being blocked from playing.

11 March 2015

NIGERIA : Afrobasket2015 - Ugbuaja and Oyedeji Join D'Tigers Camp


The duo of Ejike Ugbuaja and Olumide Oyedeji have joined the camp of Nigeria's national men's basketball team ahead of the first leg qualifier for the 2015 African Basketball Championship holding in Tunisia in June.
Ugbuaja, an Olympian, last played for Nigeria at the London 2012 Olympics while Oyedeji (also an Olympian) last competitive game for Nigeria was at the 2013 Nations Cup in Abidjan.
D'Tigers coach, Ahmed Sanni, defended the invitation of the two players, stating that their inclusion in the team would give the team the needed experience to triumph over Burkina Faso this weekend.
Coach Sanni said in a press statement signed by the team's media officer, Akinkunle Bolarinwa, that he needs 100 per cent commitment from all the players including the new additions.
"The 16 players in camp will have to give 100 per cent commitment before they can be considered for the team's roaster against Burkina Faso," he said.
The D'Tigers have played and won all their four preparatory games since the team started camping over a month ago.

KENYA : Odhiambo keen to build a team for the future


UGANDA : KIU signing Blick delivers statement

KAMPALA. KIU Titans know that it’s beating City Oilers in December that matters the most to achieve their lofty ambitions of breaking basketball’s status quo.
For that to happen, the positive vibe around the Kansanga-based university side could be a key building block. No wonder beating Oilers meant much more than just lifting the inaugural KIU Open on Sunday.
A mammoth crowd turned up for the two-day event that saw the hosts edge two-time defending national basketball champions 67-61 in the final.
This thriller, flung open by Norman Blick’s back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter, had intensity fitting of a decisive Game Seven in the finals.
Of course, Oilers are more familiar with that. But so is Blick, a six-time national champion and four-time Most Valuable Player (MVP.
The game was tied at 59-up when Blick pulled up to create daylight.
The off-season signing for Tiger Head Power was the difference after Chris Omanye’s 18 had kept them ahead.
“This is a good start,” Hamza Nyambogo, himself new to the KIU coaching job, told Daily Monitor. “We have only worked together for three weeks.”
Fans saw much more than just a start, they saw a giant step in the journey having beaten Oilers twice, the first a group clash on Saturday.
The court became a dance floor when the final buzzer was sounded.
By the time ex-Ndejje University Angels’ forward Geoffrey Soro picked the tournament MVP plaque, the murmurs were too loud to be ignored.
Will KIU actually last the distance to challenge for the title? Four in two days couldn’t provide sufficient answers.

10 March 2015

KENYA : Safe Spaces Step Down to the Nairobi League


SAFE Spaces have quit the Kenya Basketball Federation premier league and joined the provinvial Nairobi Basketball Associationleague that throws off on March 28 at Railway Club.
NBA chairman Ronny Owino confirmed the self sponsored women's teams who moved from the provincial league to the top tier three years ago have opted to return to the lower level. He also revealed eight new teams have joined the league this year.
"Safe Spaces said they could no longer play at the top level and have opted to return to the NBA. The KBF are already aware of the move and are looking for a replacement before their league starts this weekend," noted Owino.
He revealed the new teams as Riara University men and women's teams, Kenya Methodist University (Kemu) men, Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (Nibs), Mount Kenya University (Mku) Nairobi ladies, TSC Secretariat and International School of Kenya.
The NBA league has also lost six teams to the Kenya Basketball Federation. They are Equity Bank women who joined the premier league after winning the NBA title. MKU Thika and 4-Christ, Emyba and Don Bosco who joined the men's Division One.
Owino said the league will be divided into two pools for men with the top eight in each group making it to the play offs. The women's league will be a straight fight with the top four sides going straight to the play off semi finals.

NIGERIA : D'Tigers Now to Play Burkina Faso Weekend


The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) on Monday said that Burkina Faso Basketball Association has finally
agreed to host the first leg qualifier for the 2015 African Basketball Championship coming up in Tunisia this June.
NBBF President, Tijani Umar disclosed that Fiba Africa had issued a statement compelling the Burkina Faso Basketball Association (BBF) to host the first leg match before the end of this week.
To this end, the BBF has sent words to the NBBF regarding its willingness to host the first leg game this weekend.
The Burkinababes had avoided hosting the encounter for the past two weeks, citing lack of funds to prosecute the match as an excuse.
Consequently, D'Tigers will resume training today after 3 days break and the team will depart for Burkina Faso on thursday morning for the tie.
Meanwhile, the NBBF President has charged the players to go all out against their opponent and ensure a resounding victory for the nation.
Also coach of the Nigeria side, Sanni Ahmed expressed absolute confident in his boys' ability to get a result away.
In the same vein, Co-captain of the team, Stanley Gumut assured that the team was ready for the Burkinababes.
Only 12 players with 6 officials will make the trip to Burkina Faso for the tie that has been fixed for Friday/Saturday of this weekend.

KENYA : Kenya Not to Send U16s Teams to Rwanda Show


KENYA will not take part in the Fiba Africa Zone Five Under 16s championships in Rwanda this May, a top official has disclosed.
Vitalis Gode the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) secretary said the boys and girls teams have been withdrawn from the championships although he did not disclose the reasons for the pull out.
He confirmed four clubs led by national men and women champions Kenya Ports Authority and United States International University (USIU) together with Ulinzi Warriors and KPA women will travel for the club event in Kigali.
"We will not send the U16s boys and girls team to Kigali. I can however, confirm we will send the national champions and runners up to the club event in Kigali." said Gode.
He also confirmed the national men's team will travel to a four-nation invitational tournament in Johannesburg mid this month.
The team has been undergoing daily training at Nyayo National Stadium under coach Carey Oketch. Kenya will face off against former Africa champions Nigeria, Mozambique and the host South Africans in the event to be held between March 18-22. It will be the second time in six months that a Kenya team will be involved in a top event. They were fourth in Kampaladuring last year's the Fiba Africa Zone Five All Africa/ cum Nations Cup qualifiers

UGANDA : KIU beat City Oilers to win inaugural invitational tourney


City Oilers' Kami Kabange going for a basket against KIU during the group game Photo Credits: basketball256 City Oilers' Kami Kabange going for a basket against KIU during the group game
KIU Titans 67-61 City Oilers
3rd place
Tiger Head Power 67-65 Ndejje Univ Angels
The KIU Titans won the inaugural KIU Invitational Basketball tournament. The hosts beat the league champions 67-61 under the flood lights behind a balanced team effort.
Inspired by the home crowed, the Titans beat Oilers for the second time in the 2-day event having edged them in the groups 72-69 on the tournament’s opening day.
Chris Omanye had 18 points, Edwin Katerega added 15 points and new addition Norman Blick chipped in with 9 points to pace KIU to victory in the tourney that was perfectly organised.
“We want to build a fan base and a brand for the team. We know we have so many fans here and when we bring such tournaments here it does that” the tournament organiser, Nasar Serunjojji said.
Kami Kabange and Jimmy Enabu scored 20 and 19 points respectively for City Oilers and new signing Landrey Ndikomana had 9 points.
“It has been about building a team and building a brand for the team. It has been a perfect tournament and everybody has been commending it. We have put on a good show” Serunjojji said.
Meanwhile, Power took the third place following their 67-65 edge of Ndejje University Angels behind Joseph Ikong’s 15 points.
Sudi Ulanga added 12 points and Paul Mwaka contributed 10. Jonah Otim and Francis Tumusiime scored 18 and 17 points respectively for Ndejje.
The next edition of the tournament will have eight teams.
“We will be having this (tournament) every year and we shall add on two more teams next year to make it eight” Serunjojji told Kawowo Sports.

08 March 2015

NIGERIA / KENYA : KPA's Lynette Atieno Joins Nigerian Powerhouse First Bank Ball Outfit:


NATIONAL team and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) forward Lynette Atieno has joined Nigerian power house First Bank.
The soft spoken player, the first to take such a huge stride in KLenya, confided that she arrived safely in Lagos and things are on course. She is training with her new side and is ready to take to the court for the Lagos top women's ladies side when the league throws off on March 25.
Kenya Basketball Federation (secretary Vitalis Gode confirmed Atieno's move to Lagos saying she was officially released to join the Nigerian champions. "Yes, I cleared the player and she is free." he said.
Atieno, who joined the porters last year but played only a few games for the former national champions, was identified by the Nigerian side during last year's Fiba Africa women's club championships in Sfax, Tunisia. First Bank finished fourth in the event.
KPA were placed eighth in the nine team tournament. They did not win a single game but Atieno made herself a name and was also scouted by Tunisia and Mozambican sides before finally settling for First Bank.
Anthony Ojukwu, her coach at KPA said yesterday that he was happy for Atieno and urged all players going out there for international assignments to take the exposure seriously and always put up their best performance.
"I am happy for her" he said adding "Lynette is a good player, hard working and coachable. I wish her well. We were based in the same hotel with First Bank and I helped her in negotiating a contract before she settled for that team besides the other two."
KPA lost 52-67 to First Bank with Atieno scoring nine points and grabbing 13 rebounds. She had 21 in another 58-75 loss to Tunisia side CS Sfaxien before posting 13 against former winners Club Desportivo de Agosto of Angola.

TUNISIA : National Basketball Championship - Playoff - Day 12 Results

Tunis — Results of Tunisia's national basketball Championship day-12 games played on Saturday evening:
ES Rades - Club Africain 69 - 66
ES Sahel - US Monastir 73 - 72 aet (64-64)
ES Goulette - AS Hammamet 65 - 73
S. Nabeulien - JS Kairouan 80 - 68
Ranking: Pts G
1. ES Rades 22 12
2. Club Africain 21 12
. ES Sahel 21 12
4. US Monastir 18 12
. AS Hammamet 18 12
6. S. Nabeulien 17 12
7. JS Kairouan 15 12
8. ES Goulette 14 12

06 March 2015

Zimbabwe: Zambian Teams for Bob 91 Tourney


THREE teams from Zambia are expected to spice-up the Bob 91 basketball tournament which is set to take place next week at the City Sports Centre in Harare. Last year, Matero Magic from Zambia featured in the tournament and this year they will be joined by Shells and Luters basketball teams from Lusaka.
Last year Matero went all the way to the final of the tournament where they lost to Zimbabwe's Cameo.
According to the event's chairman, Tendai "T Buns" Zhakata, the Bob 91 basketball tournament has been scheduled for next Thursday and Friday and around 60 teams are expected to take part in the two-day event.
The tournament will take place at four venues, including Prince Edward, Queen Elizabeth and Girls High schools, with the City Sports Centre being the main venue.
The club tournament will be at City Sports Centre, while school teams for both boys and girls will play at the other three venues.
Zhakata said they are going to celebrate as they are grateful for the hard work President Mugabe has done for the people of Zimbabwe.
Zhakata said this year's tournament is more important as they will be celebrating and honouring the achievements of President Mugabe both regionally and continentally.
"We are all happy and excited. This year's tournament will be very unique and exciting for us because we are not just going to play but also will be celebrating the President Mugabe's 91st birthday, his appointment as chairman for African Union and Southern Development Africa Community.
"We have invited Zambian teams, among them is one team that was here last year and they reached the final."

TUNISIA : Tunisia's Basketball Championship (play-Off) - Day-11 Results

Tunis — Results Tunisia's basketball championship day-11 games (play-off) played Wednesday evening.
ES Radès - ES Goulette 73-60
Club Africain - S.Nabeulien 60-61
AS Hammamet - ES Sahel 63-82
JS Kairouan - US Monastir 63-76
Standings pts G
1. Club Africain 20 11
. ES Rades 20 11
3. ES Sahel 19 11
4. US Monastir 17 11
5. AS Hammamet 16 11
6. S.Nabeulien 15 11
7. JS Kairouan 14 11
8. ES Goulette 13 11
NB: the four top finishers are qualified for the semi-finals of the super play-off.

05 March 2015

UGANDA : FUBA Women’s Day basketball tourney set for this weekend


UCU Lady Canons in earlier action Photo Credits: New Vision UCU Lady Canons in earlier action
The Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) Women’s Day basketball tournament is on this weekend.
The two day event will take place at YMCA from Saturday, March 7 through to Sunday 8th. Over fifteen teams have confirmed participation in the event.
There are both schools teams and established women’s clubs that will compete for glory at the tournament.
The teams will be classified into two categories – the high school category and the adults.
UCU Lady Canons, KCCA Leopards, KIU Rangers, MUK Sparks, Nkumba Lady Marines, Amazon Rhino, Magic Stormers, Javon Ladies, Galdiators and Angels are some of the clubs that have confirmed participation in the tourney.
Meanwhile, Ndejje, Kibuli, St. Mary’s Kitende, Buddo, Nabinsusa and Crane High are some of the Schools that have confirmed participation.
The event will be graced by Investment Boss, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and legendary women in the game.
The tourney is sponsored by FUBA, APRH and Rwenzori.

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