18 May 2013
BOTSWANA : Women standing
Women
Standings
| POS | P | W | L | F | A | +- | PTS | PCT | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UB Relics | 7 | 4 | 3 | 419 | 258 | 161 | 11 | 0.571 | |
| 2 | Police Women | 5 | 5 | 0 | 412 | 180 | 232 | 10 | 1.000 | |
| 3 | BDF V Women | 5 | 4 | 1 | 250 | 183 | 67 | 9 | 0.800 | |
| 4 | BC Ravens | 6 | 2 | 4 | 279 | 355 | -76 | 8 | 0.333 | |
| 5 | Dolphins Women | 5 | 1 | 4 | 169 | 284 | -115 | 6 | 0.200 | |
| 6 | Splinters Women | 4 | 0 | 4 | 74 | 343 | -269 | 4 | 0.000 |
BOTSWANA : 11h day Standing
Men
Standings
| POS | P | W | L | F | A | +- | PTS | PCT | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Police | 8 | 3 | 5 | 510 | 483 | 27 | 11 | 0.375 | |
| 2 | BC Saints | 8 | 3 | 5 | 477 | 500 | -23 | 11 | 0.375 | |
| 3 | Troopers | 5 | 5 | 0 | 322 | 231 | 91 | 10 | 1.000 | |
| 4 | Cadets | 6 | 4 | 2 | 332 | 353 | -21 | 10 | 0.667 | |
| 5 | BDF V | 5 | 4 | 1 | 353 | 260 | 93 | 9 | 0.800 | |
| 6 | Bullets | 5 | 3 | 2 | 346 | 306 | 40 | 8 | 0.600 | |
| 7 | Spartans | 4 | 3 | 1 | 308 | 195 | 113 | 7 | 0.750 | |
| 8 | Splinters | 6 | 1 | 5 | 331 | 346 | -15 | 7 | 0.167 | |
| 9 | Dolphins | 4 | 2 | 2 | 241 | 229 | 12 | 6 | 0.500 | |
| 10 | Warriors | 6 | 0 | 6 | 194 | 535 | -341 | 6 | 0.000 | |
| 11 | Flames | 3 | 2 |
KENYA : Flames roast Dynamites as Zuku Varsity league kicks off
Updated on 18/05/13 | By TIMOTHY OLOBULU
The University of Nairobi Dynamites were handed a rude start to the Zuku Universities Basketball League ZUBL-going down 84-30 to USIU Flames in an entertaining match played at the packed Nyayo national Stadium Gymnasium on Saturday night.
This was the first match of the Zuku Sponsored KUSA league that was launched at the same gymnasium on Saturday. Zuku have sponsored the Universities league with 50 Million shillings.
Premier League side Flames exposed their experience dominating the struggling UoN in all quarters. Last year’s KBF Most Valuable Player Hilda Indasi steered her side to an easy win but said after the match, “You know in competition you can never underrate anyone. It was not a very hard match but we wanted to start with a good punch” said Hilda who had 22 points to account for her great form in the match.
The first quarter was a closely contested affair but Flames managed to hold on for a 12-09 win. Dynamites would still give a fight in the second quarter, but eventually losing 16-11, to put the half time scores at 28-20.
“It was tight in the first quarter, the closed in quick and we also lost easy lay ups.” Indasi added.
However, the UoN scholars found the going tough in the third quarter as the Flames came all guns blazing taking the quarter by a massive 29 points against UoN’s 6. The final quarter was a walk in the park for USIU as they went up 27-04 to give a final 84-30 score line.
Dynamites Coach Calvin Opiti was visibly disappointed with the huge loss to the Flames and he said they have to increase their self confidence as well as seal loopholes in their defense.
“We have to tighten our defense as well as play with confidence. You could easily notice that at some points we totally lacked confidence. We should also have more team work as that was something else that lacked today. We also don’t train together a lot and that is another challenge that we have to work on,” the coach told Michezoafrika.com.
This was the first match of the Zuku Sponsored KUSA league that was launched at the same gymnasium on Saturday. Zuku have sponsored the Universities league with 50 Million shillings.
Premier League side Flames exposed their experience dominating the struggling UoN in all quarters. Last year’s KBF Most Valuable Player Hilda Indasi steered her side to an easy win but said after the match, “You know in competition you can never underrate anyone. It was not a very hard match but we wanted to start with a good punch” said Hilda who had 22 points to account for her great form in the match.
The first quarter was a closely contested affair but Flames managed to hold on for a 12-09 win. Dynamites would still give a fight in the second quarter, but eventually losing 16-11, to put the half time scores at 28-20.
“It was tight in the first quarter, the closed in quick and we also lost easy lay ups.” Indasi added.
However, the UoN scholars found the going tough in the third quarter as the Flames came all guns blazing taking the quarter by a massive 29 points against UoN’s 6. The final quarter was a walk in the park for USIU as they went up 27-04 to give a final 84-30 score line.
Dynamites Coach Calvin Opiti was visibly disappointed with the huge loss to the Flames and he said they have to increase their self confidence as well as seal loopholes in their defense.
“We have to tighten our defense as well as play with confidence. You could easily notice that at some points we totally lacked confidence. We should also have more team work as that was something else that lacked today. We also don’t train together a lot and that is another challenge that we have to work on,” the coach told Michezoafrika.com.
17 May 2013
KENYA : Zuku Basketball league to be launched at Nyayo
Updated on 17/05/13 | By DENNIS MACHIO
The official launch of the Zuku Universities Basketball League (ZUBL) will be held on Saturday 18th May at the Nyayo national stadium with breathtaking action expected to light up the Nyayo stadium gymnasium.
Action starts at 4:30PM with lots of entertainment also lined up to electrify the start of an action packed season.
Early this year, Zuku unveiled a 50 Million shillings sponsorship that will go towards supporting the running of the KUSA basketball league. This will also include the production of an exclusive basketball Television magazine show to be aired on Zuku Sports channels. The show -christened BaQe - premiered on Thursday night and will be hosted by top Kenyan Baller Silalei Shani and DNG.
On Saturday, three matches will highlight the action at Nyayo: The Tigers of USIU who were runners up in last year’s KBF Premier League will welcome Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology from Kakamega. This will be an explosive fixture as both teams are blazing with good experience gained from the premier league.
The University of Nairobi Terrorists will host KCA Dynamites while Maseno University Challengers will play JKUAT’s Straycats.
Besides the action on the court, the sidelines will also be full of excitement with DJ Styles and his CodeRed crew in charge of propelling excitement.
The Zuku Basketball League (ZUBL) seeks to open up opportunities for talents and also offer a good platform for university students to showcase their skills in basketball.
Besides the tournament, the ZUBL also organized a coaches’ clinic purposed to equip coaches with latest skills before commencement of the season.
Action starts at 4:30PM with lots of entertainment also lined up to electrify the start of an action packed season.
Early this year, Zuku unveiled a 50 Million shillings sponsorship that will go towards supporting the running of the KUSA basketball league. This will also include the production of an exclusive basketball Television magazine show to be aired on Zuku Sports channels. The show -christened BaQe - premiered on Thursday night and will be hosted by top Kenyan Baller Silalei Shani and DNG.
On Saturday, three matches will highlight the action at Nyayo: The Tigers of USIU who were runners up in last year’s KBF Premier League will welcome Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology from Kakamega. This will be an explosive fixture as both teams are blazing with good experience gained from the premier league.
The University of Nairobi Terrorists will host KCA Dynamites while Maseno University Challengers will play JKUAT’s Straycats.
Besides the action on the court, the sidelines will also be full of excitement with DJ Styles and his CodeRed crew in charge of propelling excitement.
The Zuku Basketball League (ZUBL) seeks to open up opportunities for talents and also offer a good platform for university students to showcase their skills in basketball.
Besides the tournament, the ZUBL also organized a coaches’ clinic purposed to equip coaches with latest skills before commencement of the season.
UGANDA : Juruni eyes 2013 Basketball crown
Juruni guided Kyambogo Warriors to the title last year. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
By Charles Mutebi
Today: National Basketball League
MTN Arena
Women: 6.30pm
KIU v A1
Men: 8.30pm
City Oil v Falcons
MANDY Juruni’s last encounter with the Falcons ended with the humble coach exalted in championship glory.
His first this season finds Mandy on a new team but with the same old assignment –– winning the title. Safe to say, he might have to do it at the expense of the Falcons again.
Juruni’s City Oil battle the Falcons today at the MTN Arena in a showdown of two frontrunners for the 2013 National Basketball League.
For the man who masterminded Kyambogo Warriors’ 4-2 defeat of the Falcons in last year’s FUBA men’s top-division Finals, today’s game is an opportunity to judge the progress of his newly-assembled side, promoted from the second tier last year.
“It is always good to play against good teams,” said Mandy. “I can’t say I am happy to face the team I beat for the title because I am on a new team now while the Falcons still have the same team.
Rwanda centre Kami Kabenge is set to make his debut for City Oil, who have a new albeit very strong side but Mandy doesn’t see the lack of chemistry as a threat anymore.
“We are ready,” said the coach. “We have worked so hard since the start of the year so chemistry is not a problem.”
Falcons star Steven Omony expects a tough match from City Oil, whom he considers “a good team”.
He said: “I believe they have a plan and there is nothing to underrate about them. We will approach them with respect.”
The Falcons have won all two of their games while City Oil have split theirs.
Today: National Basketball League
MTN Arena
Women: 6.30pm
KIU v A1
Men: 8.30pm
City Oil v Falcons
MANDY Juruni’s last encounter with the Falcons ended with the humble coach exalted in championship glory.
His first this season finds Mandy on a new team but with the same old assignment –– winning the title. Safe to say, he might have to do it at the expense of the Falcons again.
Juruni’s City Oil battle the Falcons today at the MTN Arena in a showdown of two frontrunners for the 2013 National Basketball League.
For the man who masterminded Kyambogo Warriors’ 4-2 defeat of the Falcons in last year’s FUBA men’s top-division Finals, today’s game is an opportunity to judge the progress of his newly-assembled side, promoted from the second tier last year.
“It is always good to play against good teams,” said Mandy. “I can’t say I am happy to face the team I beat for the title because I am on a new team now while the Falcons still have the same team.
Rwanda centre Kami Kabenge is set to make his debut for City Oil, who have a new albeit very strong side but Mandy doesn’t see the lack of chemistry as a threat anymore.
“We are ready,” said the coach. “We have worked so hard since the start of the year so chemistry is not a problem.”
Falcons star Steven Omony expects a tough match from City Oil, whom he considers “a good team”.
He said: “I believe they have a plan and there is nothing to underrate about them. We will approach them with respect.”
The Falcons have won all two of their games while City Oil have split theirs.
UGANDA : Oilers at full strength for Falcons tie
City Oilers’ Steven Okello (R) tries to find a way past Power skipper Isaac Afidra in the men’s topflight league opener. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA We surely haven’t seen the best of the much-debated City Oilers. Neither have we seen the best of Falcons. This is mainly because they haven’t put their best team on the floor yet.
Tonight at Lugogo, they both could field their best sides as they meet for the first time in the Airtel Basketball League. Division Two champions City Oilers didn’t have big men Ramadhan Arou and Kami Kabange as their clearances had not come through.
Both missed the opener which they lost to five-time champions DMark Power 68-65. Arou was cleared in time for the 102-44 rout of Miracle Eagles, scoring a game-high 26 points.
“Kami will play for us for the first time,” coach Mandy Juruni, who joined from champions Warriors in the off-season, told Daily Monitor. The Rwandese centre will be facing his former employers as he played for record champions Falcons three years ago.
“He adds a lot. He is an all-round big man who can play away from the paint. He has a very good understanding of the game and also runs the floor,” Juruni added. Like has been the norm in recent years, Falcons grow their team with time.
Tanzanian guard Abdullahi Ramadhan (Dulah) and Kenyan centre Philip Ameny are back and Falcons’ thin squad must feel relieved. “I am here again to play for the title, as usual,” Dulah, in his typical dismissive style, said.
The pair, part of the Falcons who reached the finals last year, for the first time since 2008, returned this week and their presence despite the obvious unfitness should help.
The pair, part of the Falcons who reached the finals last year, for the first time since 2008, returned this week and their presence despite the obvious unfitness should help.
16 May 2013
UGANDA : Titans post second straight win as Warriors bounce back
ANGOLA : Bai Basket Last Round With Thrilling Petro Vs 1º De Agosto Game
Luanda — The last round of the national senior males basketball championship final, kicks off this Thursday with the thrilling match between Petro de Luanda and 1º de Agosto, in Cidadela sports pavilion.
1º de Agosto will be received by Petro de Luanda and are "forbidden" to lose this match if they want to conquer the title, since they are the leaders of the competition with 16 points.
On the other match of group A, Recreativo do Libolo (second with 14 points) will play as visitor with Interclube, last with 12 points.
1º de Agosto will be received by Petro de Luanda and are "forbidden" to lose this match if they want to conquer the title, since they are the leaders of the competition with 16 points.
On the other match of group A, Recreativo do Libolo (second with 14 points) will play as visitor with Interclube, last with 12 points.
Nigeria: Plateau Rocks Coach Laments Poor Funding of Club
The Chief Coach of Plateau Rocks, a female basketball team, Alex Guwan, yesterday decried the current state of neglect being experienced by the team because of poor funding by the Plateau government.
Guwan said in an interview in Jos that the team had been surviving on the goodwill of some well-meaning individuals in the state.
He added that the rough spell being experienced by the club had not in any way deterred it from performing well in the ongoing season.
"We have qualified for the final phase of the Zenith Bank female basketball tournament, slated for June in Lagos, after we emerged in the last eight in Asaba.
"I don't know how we would have made it this far, if not for people who have interest in the game.
"I remember when we were going for the other two phases in Abuja and Asaba, we had to source for money from individuals.
"We are using this medium to appeal to the state government to release money to the team, to help us to participate well in the tournament," he said.
The Chief Coach further said that the team had been given a one-week break for the players to rest after the strenuous competition.
Guwan said in an interview in Jos that the team had been surviving on the goodwill of some well-meaning individuals in the state.
He added that the rough spell being experienced by the club had not in any way deterred it from performing well in the ongoing season.
"We have qualified for the final phase of the Zenith Bank female basketball tournament, slated for June in Lagos, after we emerged in the last eight in Asaba.
"I don't know how we would have made it this far, if not for people who have interest in the game.
"I remember when we were going for the other two phases in Abuja and Asaba, we had to source for money from individuals.
"We are using this medium to appeal to the state government to release money to the team, to help us to participate well in the tournament," he said.
The Chief Coach further said that the team had been given a one-week break for the players to rest after the strenuous competition.
ANGOLA : 1º De Agosto Need Two Victories to Win Basketaball Championship
Luanda — 1º de Agosto need only two victories to conquest the national championship of basketball, with three games to be played.
With 16 points, 1º de Agosto in a case of one defeat will have 21 points, as their main opponents, Recreativo do Libolo has 14.
In case of two victories, 1º de Agosto will become champions totalising 22 points.
But if 1º de Agosto lose two games and Libolo win three the teams will have the same points, which means that they will have to play again to find out the champion of the 2013 season.
Recreativo do Libolo is the title holder.
With 16 points, 1º de Agosto in a case of one defeat will have 21 points, as their main opponents, Recreativo do Libolo has 14.
In case of two victories, 1º de Agosto will become champions totalising 22 points.
But if 1º de Agosto lose two games and Libolo win three the teams will have the same points, which means that they will have to play again to find out the champion of the 2013 season.
Recreativo do Libolo is the title holder.
GAMBIA : Basketball level one course impresses coaches
The coaches currently attending the Basketball Level one coaches course at the Bamboo Hotel in Kololi are very happy for having benefited from a high level coach for the country.
The course, which will end on May 19, is organised by the Gambia Basketball Federation in collaboration with The Gambia National Olympic Committee as well as the Olympic Solidarity.
Lamin Fadera, a participant from the Prisons police, said the course helped him a lot as before this time he did not know anything about basketball but he has gained a lot through the course.
According to Federa, after the training he would advise his fellow security officers to follow basketball.
Sports coordinator NBR, Alhagie Darboe, said he did not know anything about basketball but he is now conversant with the rules of the game especially.
Darboe said he would share the knowledge gained in his region.
Amadou Jawo, Sports Coordinator of URR, said basketball is an interesting game, which unfortunately many people in The Gambia have not taken interest in.
Wallidan Basketball coach Ousman Conateh said he has been coaching Wallidan team for the past five years, adding that he has done some courses but the course he is attending “is the best”. Conteh also promised to share the knowledge gained from the training.
Lamin Marena, a staff of Bamboo Hotel, expressed his delight for the hiring of the hotel by the basketball federation to run their course. He described the participants as friendly.
Course Director Professor Ronald Onyango Owino said the training is going on smoothly, adding that the coaches are working effectively.
The course covers the fundamentals of the basketball, how to dribble and how to pass rebounce.
According to the course director, this was his first time to come to The Gambia. “Gambians are kind to me, especially the coaches,” he said.
Author: Abdoulie Fatty, Photo Journalists
Kenya: Tigers Up Against Muliro University
UNITED States International University 'Tigers' face off against Masinde Muliro University of Agriculture and Technology (MMUST) as the Zuku Kenya University Sports Association (KUSA) league throws off this weekend at Nyayo Stadium.
The match will be the main highlight in an opening fixtures that will see a total of three matches on card. Zuku has sponsored the league to the tune of Sh50 million.
The opening tie of the season will see Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCA-U) take on University of Nairobi 'Dynamites' in the opening fixtures of what will be a busy schedule according to the organiser Abel Nson.
The visiting Maseno University will then step on to the podium where they will face off against Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Meanwhile, Joel Atebe scored 31 points to lead Don Bosco to a 61-33 win over CFC Stanbic Bank in the Nairobi Basketball League. The bankers had 16 points from Francis Ndobi. Old Pirates whipped Woodley Knights 68-32 while Baraka Xtreme sneaked to a narrow 60-58 win over Mount Kenya University (MKU) Thika.
The match will be the main highlight in an opening fixtures that will see a total of three matches on card. Zuku has sponsored the league to the tune of Sh50 million.
The opening tie of the season will see Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCA-U) take on University of Nairobi 'Dynamites' in the opening fixtures of what will be a busy schedule according to the organiser Abel Nson.
The visiting Maseno University will then step on to the podium where they will face off against Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Meanwhile, Joel Atebe scored 31 points to lead Don Bosco to a 61-33 win over CFC Stanbic Bank in the Nairobi Basketball League. The bankers had 16 points from Francis Ndobi. Old Pirates whipped Woodley Knights 68-32 while Baraka Xtreme sneaked to a narrow 60-58 win over Mount Kenya University (MKU) Thika.
15 May 2013
Tanzania: Rangers Too Strong for Stone Town in Isles League
ZANZIBAR champions Stone Town succumbed to a 89-90 defeat at the hands of Rangers in a thrilling Unguja Zone Basketball League encounter at the Maisara courts here on Monday evening.
The result means Rangers moved top of the table on ten points. It was a close start to the contest, in which Rangers took a 25-14 lead at the end of the first quarter. Ranger's confidence soared as the game went on and extended their advantage to 47-38 points by half time.
At the third quarter, the Rangers' surge was put to a check as Stone Town threw everything up front which saw them managing to close the gap to a mere five points, and it ended 68-63 in favour of Rangers.
It only forced to a seesaw final quarter as Stone Town stretched their opponents to the limit as they game kept swinging from side to side. In the end, Rangers managed to hold on to the challenge and completed a deserved 90-89 victory The league was set to continue yesterday with two matches on the card.
The first match was set to pit Nyuki and Africa Magic, while Mwembetanga were to clash against Mbuyuni. Meanwhile, the Zanzibar Football Association (ZFA) mini election scheduled for next month has attracted an isles-based journalist.
Munir Zakaria, working for Channel Ten, has underlined his desire to contest the ZFA president post, which was left vacant following the resignation of Amani Ibrahim Makungu early this year.
The result means Rangers moved top of the table on ten points. It was a close start to the contest, in which Rangers took a 25-14 lead at the end of the first quarter. Ranger's confidence soared as the game went on and extended their advantage to 47-38 points by half time.
At the third quarter, the Rangers' surge was put to a check as Stone Town threw everything up front which saw them managing to close the gap to a mere five points, and it ended 68-63 in favour of Rangers.
It only forced to a seesaw final quarter as Stone Town stretched their opponents to the limit as they game kept swinging from side to side. In the end, Rangers managed to hold on to the challenge and completed a deserved 90-89 victory The league was set to continue yesterday with two matches on the card.
The first match was set to pit Nyuki and Africa Magic, while Mwembetanga were to clash against Mbuyuni. Meanwhile, the Zanzibar Football Association (ZFA) mini election scheduled for next month has attracted an isles-based journalist.
Munir Zakaria, working for Channel Ten, has underlined his desire to contest the ZFA president post, which was left vacant following the resignation of Amani Ibrahim Makungu early this year.
ANGOLA : 1 º De Agosto Beat Libolo, Strengthen Leading
Luanda — 1 º de Agosto increased their advantage in leading of the national championship of senior male basketball after beating Recreativo do Libolo by 91-83 in the closing game of the third round of the finals.
With this score, 1º de Agosto add 16 points to three matches the end of the competition, whereas the defending champions have 14.
In another match of the round, Interclube will face tonight Petro de Luanda. Both teams have 11 points.
With this score, 1º de Agosto add 16 points to three matches the end of the competition, whereas the defending champions have 14.
In another match of the round, Interclube will face tonight Petro de Luanda. Both teams have 11 points.
UGANDA : Warriors unfazed
Warriors centre Sam Gombya was no threat as UCU Canons Desmond Owili (with ball) flew past him to dunk four times during last Friday’s league game. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA. There isn’t anything fundamentally wrong with champions Warriors and there is no need to press the panic button, at least according to Ivan Enabu.
“We are not worried at all,” Enabu said after losing 63-58 to UCU Canons at the Lugogo MTN Arena last Friday. Judgement on his assertion can be made today as Warriors face strugglers Nkumba Marines at YMCA Court. “Truth be told, we were not ready to play,” Enabu lamented. He can answer those questions against a side expected to spend the year fighting relegation.
Nkumba lost their season opener to Power, 79-64, despite putting up a show for three periods.
Brian Sivachi scored 29 points and 15 rebounds but there wasn’t much support on the offense for coach Timothy Odeke. John Chipulanghelo, with 11, was the only other in double figures. Odeke is honest about how far they can go. New team
Brian Sivachi scored 29 points and 15 rebounds but there wasn’t much support on the offense for coach Timothy Odeke. John Chipulanghelo, with 11, was the only other in double figures. Odeke is honest about how far they can go. New team
“We are building a totally new team,” he noted. He has only eight players to rotate and the roster lacks genuine size. Warriors’ uncharacteristically disorganised start to the season has happened without big men Henry Malinga (injury) and Michael Kariuki (away in Kenya).
Their return is close. Likewise, centre Sam Gombya featured for the first time this season in the defeat after skipping the opening day 94-27 victory over Miracle Eagles.
Skipper Ronnie Kasewu is coming off a 13 points and six-rebound performance, having to play for long periods to cover for the thin team. In the other game, playoff hopefuls KIU Titans are widely expected to win for the first time against Proline.
14 May 2013
Nigeria: Osho Predicts Tough Milo Basketball Final
Mr. Folorunsho Osho, Brand Specialist Beverage Category, Nestle has predicted a tough final match of the Western Conference of the 15th edition of Nestle Milo Secondary School holding today at the Liberty Stadium with International School, Lagos battling Ogun State representative, Adedokun International School, Ota in the boys category.
In the girls category, it will be a battle of wits between Yejide Girls College, Ibadan, Oyo State and Westend Secondary School, Asaba, Delta State.
Osho expressed satisfaction with the standard of play so far in the competition maintained that there will be more fireworks from the schools in today's final.
"The students know what is at stake, therefore they will put in everything in their arsenal to get to the national finals in Lagos," Osho said.
To book a place in the final, Lagos State representative defeated its Oyo State counterpart, St. Gabriel Commercial Secondary School, Ibadan, 44-30 in a keenly contested encounter, while Ogun State representative edged out Acndson Demonstration Group of Schools, Benin City, Edo State 38-21.
In female category, Oyo defeated Ogun with just a point 23-22 in a very close contest while Delta pummeled Idia College from Edo State 20 -4 in the second encounter
In the girls category, it will be a battle of wits between Yejide Girls College, Ibadan, Oyo State and Westend Secondary School, Asaba, Delta State.
Osho expressed satisfaction with the standard of play so far in the competition maintained that there will be more fireworks from the schools in today's final.
"The students know what is at stake, therefore they will put in everything in their arsenal to get to the national finals in Lagos," Osho said.
To book a place in the final, Lagos State representative defeated its Oyo State counterpart, St. Gabriel Commercial Secondary School, Ibadan, 44-30 in a keenly contested encounter, while Ogun State representative edged out Acndson Demonstration Group of Schools, Benin City, Edo State 38-21.
In female category, Oyo defeated Ogun with just a point 23-22 in a very close contest while Delta pummeled Idia College from Edo State 20 -4 in the second encounter
13 May 2013
UGANDA : Double joy for UCU in the NBL
Unlike the post seasons when UCU Canons tend to stretch Kyambogo Warriors to the limits, regular season match-ups seemed easy for Warriors until Friday night. Even when Canons come out strong that Warriors don’t sustain big leads to put away games somehow the university side comes short.
With the addition of Syrus Kiviri to their back court and Ivan Lumanyika on the front court, Canons looked the better team on paper and so it was on the floor breaking their regular season jinx against Warriors with a 63-58 win over last year’s champions Friday night inside the MTN Arena. Suudi ulanga scored game high 20 points to lead Canons (2-0) to the rare regular season win against Warriors. Desmond Owili added 14 points and pulled down 14 rebounds.
UCU leading 50-43 going into the fourth quarter, Warriors (1-1) responded with a 9-0 run to start the final period and took a 52-50 lead with 7:14 but a tip-in from Owili and a mid-range fade away jumper from Ulanga took UCU back into the lead. Warriors called for a time out with 4 minutes on the clock and on return, Ulanga increased UCU’s advantage to 56-54 but a pair of lay-ups from Andrew Okot (9 points) tied the game at 56. Ulanga hit a trey then four free throws from Ivan Lumanyika, Kiviri and a pair from the game leader sealed it for the Canons before Warriors’ center, Sam Gombya closed the scoring for the night.
Canons went unpunished for playing with slippery hands. The university side committed an unfathomable 40 turnovers but made up by out-rebounding Warriors 59-36. Ronnie Kasewu led Warriors with 13 points while point guard Ivan Enabu contributed 8 points and swiped 11 steals for Kyambogo who were without centers Henry Malinga and Micheal Kariuki as well as forward, Norman Blick who reportedly will join Dmark Power.
Meanwhile, center, Peace Proscovia poured in 43 points and picked 24 rebounds to power UCU Lady Canons to a 101-31 blowout of MUK Sparks. Fowrad, Purity Adhiambo added 23 points and 16 rebounds for Lady Canons (2-0). Joy Chemtai led Sparks (1-1) with 13 points and 8 rebounds.
KENYA : USIU Flames lucky against Strathmore
Updated on 13/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Runners up of the 2012 Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League women’s category USIU Flames survived a scare when they narrowly beat fellow students Strathmore Swords 60-59 on Sunday afternoon at the Nyayo gymnasium.
The Madaraka based students entered with guns blazing in the 1st quarter and they overwhelmed USIU with 17 points against their opponents 10 points. In the 2nd quarter the two teams went neck to neck but it was Sylvia Kamua’s side that was on top once more with a slight 13-12 win over Flames to put the half time scores 30-22 in favor of Strathmore.
The 3rd quarter of the match saw another tough contest from the two side and they drew with 19 points each to see Strathmore still in the lead with the score being 49-41. In the last quarter Swords could not keep up with Flames’ onslaught and they slumped getting 10 points against USIU who sunk in 19 points to see Strathmore lose their third straight match in the league.
Grace Wanjiku had 15 points followed by Tanya Ogwel with 12 points for Strathmore who have failed to register a win so far in the 2013 season while Sarah Chan and Hilda Indasi had 17 and 13 points respectively for USIU.
In another match played earlier at the same venue Storms managed to beat Safe Spaces 56-36 while in the men’s category Nakuru Club who were playing host to KPA in Nakuru were beaten 63-61 by the visitors.
The Madaraka based students entered with guns blazing in the 1st quarter and they overwhelmed USIU with 17 points against their opponents 10 points. In the 2nd quarter the two teams went neck to neck but it was Sylvia Kamua’s side that was on top once more with a slight 13-12 win over Flames to put the half time scores 30-22 in favor of Strathmore.
The 3rd quarter of the match saw another tough contest from the two side and they drew with 19 points each to see Strathmore still in the lead with the score being 49-41. In the last quarter Swords could not keep up with Flames’ onslaught and they slumped getting 10 points against USIU who sunk in 19 points to see Strathmore lose their third straight match in the league.
Grace Wanjiku had 15 points followed by Tanya Ogwel with 12 points for Strathmore who have failed to register a win so far in the 2013 season while Sarah Chan and Hilda Indasi had 17 and 13 points respectively for USIU.
In another match played earlier at the same venue Storms managed to beat Safe Spaces 56-36 while in the men’s category Nakuru Club who were playing host to KPA in Nakuru were beaten 63-61 by the visitors.
KENYA : KPA registers double win in KBF Premier League
Updated on 13/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Kenya Ports Authority ladies team won their two league matches over the weekend as the Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League resumed at the Nyayo gymnasium. on Saturday KPA managed to beat Co-op Bank 43-33 winning all the quarters apart from the 3rd which they lost by a single point (1st quarter 13-7, 2nd quarter 8-6, 3rd quarter 10-11 and 4th quarter 12-9). Brenda Angeshi gave the Porters 9 points the same number of points Caro Ouma gave the Bankers.
On Sunday KPA had an easy time with KU Oryx whom they thrashed 42-12 with the 1st half of the match ending 24-7 in favor of the Mombasa based side. KU could only manage 7 points in the 1st quarter after which they failed to score a single point in the 2nd and 3rd quarter. On the other end KPA had 18 points in the 1st quarter, 6 points in the 2nd quarter and 13 points in the 3rd quarter. The two teams drew with 5 points each in the last quarter.
The weekend matches saw KU Oryx go home with 3 league points after they had beaten Mennonites 50-27 on Saturday to get 2 points plus 1 point from the loss to KPA. In the other matches played on Saturday Strathmore beat Safe Spaces 51-43 in the ladies category, while Defending Champions Co-op Bank beat KPA men’s team 59-54 in the men’s category. Nairobi Aviation also defeated UoN Terrorists 64-56 on the same day.
On Sunday KPA had an easy time with KU Oryx whom they thrashed 42-12 with the 1st half of the match ending 24-7 in favor of the Mombasa based side. KU could only manage 7 points in the 1st quarter after which they failed to score a single point in the 2nd and 3rd quarter. On the other end KPA had 18 points in the 1st quarter, 6 points in the 2nd quarter and 13 points in the 3rd quarter. The two teams drew with 5 points each in the last quarter.
The weekend matches saw KU Oryx go home with 3 league points after they had beaten Mennonites 50-27 on Saturday to get 2 points plus 1 point from the loss to KPA. In the other matches played on Saturday Strathmore beat Safe Spaces 51-43 in the ladies category, while Defending Champions Co-op Bank beat KPA men’s team 59-54 in the men’s category. Nairobi Aviation also defeated UoN Terrorists 64-56 on the same day.
KENYA : KU Pirates lose first matches in KBF Div One
Updated on 12/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
Three matches were played in the Kenya Basketball Federation Division One League over the weekend at the Nyayo Gymnasium with Kenyatta University Pirates losing their first two matches of the league on Saturday and Sunday.
On Saturday Pirates lost 42-55 to World Hope managing to win the 2nd quarter only the score being 16-12. They had lost the 1st quarter 7-8, went down on the 3rd 16-11 and the 4th also in which they got 9 points against World Hope’s 19 points. Nicodemus Odhiambo gave Pirates 11 points while James Otundo sunk in 19 points for World Hope.
In the Sunday matches Pirates lost narrowly to Trail Blazers 55-58 in which they won the 1st quarter 10-9 but in the 2nd quarter Trail Blazers came back with a 19-13 win to put the half time scores at 28-23 in favor of Blazers. The 3rd quarter saw Trail Blazers get 19 points once more while the University students sunk in 15 points.
Pirates came out strongly in the last quarter overwhelming Trail Blazers with 17-8 win but it was not enough to see them win the match. Renson Moibi had 16 points for KU while Shem Otieno had his name on the score sheet with 15 points for Trail Blazers.
Earlier in the first match of the day (Sunday) newly crowned KSSSA basketball Champions Upper Hill lost to KCA-U 52-58. The match was Upper Hill’s first game since the onset of the league.
On Saturday Pirates lost 42-55 to World Hope managing to win the 2nd quarter only the score being 16-12. They had lost the 1st quarter 7-8, went down on the 3rd 16-11 and the 4th also in which they got 9 points against World Hope’s 19 points. Nicodemus Odhiambo gave Pirates 11 points while James Otundo sunk in 19 points for World Hope.
In the Sunday matches Pirates lost narrowly to Trail Blazers 55-58 in which they won the 1st quarter 10-9 but in the 2nd quarter Trail Blazers came back with a 19-13 win to put the half time scores at 28-23 in favor of Blazers. The 3rd quarter saw Trail Blazers get 19 points once more while the University students sunk in 15 points.
Pirates came out strongly in the last quarter overwhelming Trail Blazers with 17-8 win but it was not enough to see them win the match. Renson Moibi had 16 points for KU while Shem Otieno had his name on the score sheet with 15 points for Trail Blazers.
Earlier in the first match of the day (Sunday) newly crowned KSSSA basketball Champions Upper Hill lost to KCA-U 52-58. The match was Upper Hill’s first game since the onset of the league.
NIGERIA : DSTV Basketball - Warriors Sink Union Bank to Remain in Contention
Dodan Warriors of Lagos on Friday defeated city rivals Union Bank 83-68, to claim its third victory so far in the ongoing 2013 Atlantic Conference of the DSTV Men's Basketball League.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Warriors, who had lost two out of their five matches in the league, staged a comeback to remain in contention in the league.
Warriors had lost two matches home and away to defending champions, Royal Hoopers of Port-Harcourt, but won two, also home and away, against weeping child, Customs of Lagos.
Union Bank, who had recorded two losses in a row, having also lost its fourth match to Lagos Islanders, had also won three matches from five played so far.
Coach Daudu Adeka of Warriors told said that the victory had returned his team to contention in the league and that the victory had also boosted his players' morale.
"We lost two games in a row. Those two losses had fostered our determination to fight back and win our fifth match. I give kudos to my players for their performance," he said.
His assistant, Nonge Christopher, attributed the victory to hard work and the players' discipline by taking instructions.
"They kept their cool in the match, they stayed together as a team and took to our instructions while playing, it was indeed, a good result," Christopher said.
Coach Ayinla Yusuf of Union said it was better to lose now when the league was still fresh than later when the participating clubs would have known their positions in the league.
In other matches played, youthful Comets Club of Lagos recorded their second win in the league with a 71-63 victory over Customs, while Islanders spanked visiting Royal Hoopers 67-54.
Customs are currently at the bottom of the table in the Atlantic Conference with five losses in the five games played so far.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Warriors, who had lost two out of their five matches in the league, staged a comeback to remain in contention in the league.
Warriors had lost two matches home and away to defending champions, Royal Hoopers of Port-Harcourt, but won two, also home and away, against weeping child, Customs of Lagos.
Union Bank, who had recorded two losses in a row, having also lost its fourth match to Lagos Islanders, had also won three matches from five played so far.
Coach Daudu Adeka of Warriors told said that the victory had returned his team to contention in the league and that the victory had also boosted his players' morale.
"We lost two games in a row. Those two losses had fostered our determination to fight back and win our fifth match. I give kudos to my players for their performance," he said.
His assistant, Nonge Christopher, attributed the victory to hard work and the players' discipline by taking instructions.
"They kept their cool in the match, they stayed together as a team and took to our instructions while playing, it was indeed, a good result," Christopher said.
Coach Ayinla Yusuf of Union said it was better to lose now when the league was still fresh than later when the participating clubs would have known their positions in the league.
In other matches played, youthful Comets Club of Lagos recorded their second win in the league with a 71-63 victory over Customs, while Islanders spanked visiting Royal Hoopers 67-54.
Customs are currently at the bottom of the table in the Atlantic Conference with five losses in the five games played so far.
KENYA : USIU Tigers beat Co-op Bank in extra time thriller
Updated on 12/05/13 | By BRIAN AYIEKO
KBF Premier League Defending Champions in the men’s category, Co-op Bank suffered their third loss in the 2013 season after they were beaten 82-80 by USIU Tigers on Sunday evening at the Nyayo Gymnasium in a tightly contested clash.
USIU who were first runners up last season kicked off the match on a high note when they got 25 points in the 1st quarter while Co-op could only manage 7 points. The 2nd quarter of the match saw the two teams draw on points with each side getting 13 points and this put the half time scores at 38-20 with Tigers enjoying the 18 point gap.
In the 3rd quarter the Bankers came out charged up and they held off the students with 8 points the score being 20-12. Cary Odhiambo’s side continued to pile pressure on their opponents in the 4th quarter and it paid off after they sunk in 28 points while USIU had 18 points and this forced the match into a draw at the end of normal time the scores being 68-68.
Co-op Bank can only have themselves to blame for the loss after Eugene Genga could not capitalise on two free throws awarded in favor of Co-op Bank in the extra quarter when they were trailing 81-80. This came back to haunt Co-op as the Tigers were also awarded a two free throws of which Mark Mayien missed one and sunk in one to make sure the students take home the two league points.
Last season’s best defensive player Kevin Kigotho had 21 points for USIU followed by Victor Bosire who had 19 points while Joseph Khaemba and Titus Musembi each gave Co-op Bank 18 points.
USIU who were first runners up last season kicked off the match on a high note when they got 25 points in the 1st quarter while Co-op could only manage 7 points. The 2nd quarter of the match saw the two teams draw on points with each side getting 13 points and this put the half time scores at 38-20 with Tigers enjoying the 18 point gap.
In the 3rd quarter the Bankers came out charged up and they held off the students with 8 points the score being 20-12. Cary Odhiambo’s side continued to pile pressure on their opponents in the 4th quarter and it paid off after they sunk in 28 points while USIU had 18 points and this forced the match into a draw at the end of normal time the scores being 68-68.
Co-op Bank can only have themselves to blame for the loss after Eugene Genga could not capitalise on two free throws awarded in favor of Co-op Bank in the extra quarter when they were trailing 81-80. This came back to haunt Co-op as the Tigers were also awarded a two free throws of which Mark Mayien missed one and sunk in one to make sure the students take home the two league points.
Last season’s best defensive player Kevin Kigotho had 21 points for USIU followed by Victor Bosire who had 19 points while Joseph Khaemba and Titus Musembi each gave Co-op Bank 18 points.
Tanzania: Polisi Outmuscle Mbuyuni in Zanzibar Basketball League
Zanzibar — POLISI Zanzibar underlined their title ambitions after beating Mbuyuni 57-52 in the ongoing Unguja Zone Basketball League at the Maisara courts here on Thursday.
It was the third consecutive victory for Polisi, who are now tied on six points with leaders Rangers but are separated by goal difference. Playing with vigour, Polisi showed their intent to win form the start after they bulldozed a shattered Mbuyuni, taking a convincing 16-10 lead in the first quarter.
The law enforcers continued to dominate the game in the second quarter despite Mbuyuni's strong resistance midway through the quarter.
They held on to record 11-point advantage at 39-28. Polisi started the second half where they finished and at the end of the third the lead had increased to 52-36 and in the fourth quarter Mbuyuni defence had no answers to the Polisi offense.
It was the third consecutive victory for Polisi, who are now tied on six points with leaders Rangers but are separated by goal difference. Playing with vigour, Polisi showed their intent to win form the start after they bulldozed a shattered Mbuyuni, taking a convincing 16-10 lead in the first quarter.
The law enforcers continued to dominate the game in the second quarter despite Mbuyuni's strong resistance midway through the quarter.
They held on to record 11-point advantage at 39-28. Polisi started the second half where they finished and at the end of the third the lead had increased to 52-36 and in the fourth quarter Mbuyuni defence had no answers to the Polisi offense.
12 May 2013
UGANDA : Canons hold off Warriors
UCU’s Kiviiri (9) finds his way past Warriors defence to lay up on Friday. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA
By ISMAIL DHAKABA KIGONGO
In the early game, UCU Lady Canons ensured double delight, thrashing Makerere Sparks 101-31 courtesy of 43 points and 24 rebounds from centre Peace Proscovia.Victory over champions Warriors on Friday night really meant something for UCU Canons even if the 63-58 margin left more questions for the latter than the former. Sudi Ulanga scored 20 and six rebounds and Desmond Owili had 14 points and 14 rebounds, including a catalogue of dunks, to earn a slice of revenge for three semifinal defeats to Warriors in the past four years.The celebrations inside the Lugogo MTN Arena at the end showed their satisfaction. However, the win is insufficient in wiping away the pain of losing to Warriors 3-2 thrice in the past when it mattered most.
Owili jumped and touched shoulders with Martin Okwako, and then Cyrus Kiviri. The celebration is synonymous with NBA star Lebron James and his teammates over the years. “Of course, it’s good,” Kiviri, who scored nine points and committed seven turnovers against the team he left last season, said. “We just beat the champions.” This wasn’t the Warriors who won the title last year. Besides Kiviri, Norman Blick rejoined DMark Power. Henry Malinga remains injured. Coach Mandy Juruni is now at City Oilers. Steven Okias is in ‘transit’ to another National Basketball League side in Ndejje University Angels. If those weren’t big enough dampeners, then the absence of coach Sam Samanya, currently at the national schools’ championships in Mbarara, sealed them as underdogs heading into the game.
In fact, Warriors should be pleased they gave it a real go and perhaps UCU had a chance to hammer them. They didn’t.This was far from their best team though the game was tied at 29-up after the first two periods.
Despite Ronnie Kasewu leading them with 13 points and six rebounds, UCU bossed the third period 21-14 and while the seven-point periphery seemed minimal at the end of the third, Warriors never fought back.
In fact, Warriors should be pleased they gave it a real go and perhaps UCU had a chance to hammer them. They didn’t.This was far from their best team though the game was tied at 29-up after the first two periods.
Despite Ronnie Kasewu leading them with 13 points and six rebounds, UCU bossed the third period 21-14 and while the seven-point periphery seemed minimal at the end of the third, Warriors never fought back.
No one else crossed the 10-point mark. Ivan Enabu entertained the crowd, not far from capacity, for his eight points and 11 steals. “Truth be told, we were not ready to play,” Enabu lamented. “Everyone has been busy this week with something but we will look ahead to the next game.” Warriors have now won one and lost one whereas this was UCU’s second successive victory following their success against KIU Titans in the opener.
ikigongo@ug.nationmedia.com
FRIDAY RESULTS
M: Warriors 58-63 UCU
W: UCU 101-31 Mak Sparks
TODAY AT LUGOGO
M: Miracle vs. Power (7.30pm)
M: Ndejje vs. Rhino (3.30pm)
W: KCC vs. Gladiators (5.30pm)
M: Warriors 58-63 UCU
W: UCU 101-31 Mak Sparks
TODAY AT LUGOGO
M: Miracle vs. Power (7.30pm)
M: Ndejje vs. Rhino (3.30pm)
W: KCC vs. Gladiators (5.30pm)
