The defending champions, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), arrived in Zanzibar on Wednesday ahead of the Women’s Basketball League-Africa Zone Five qualifiers, which are set to start this Sunday. A total of nine teams will compete for a spot in the Africa Women’s Basketball League finals, scheduled for December in Dakar, Senegal.
KPA head coach Anthony Ojukwu expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, emphasizing their solid preparations since October 7. “We’ve had good preparations, starting on October 7. We focused on improving the players’ fitness, and I’m happy with where we are now,” Ojukwu remarked. He added, “Our tactics are in place, and I believe we are ready to reclaim our title. The players are motivated, there are no injuries, and all 17 registered players are available for selection.”
Last year, KPA made history by becoming the first Kenyan team to reach the final of the Africa Women’s Basketball League, held in Alexandria, Egypt. Despite their impressive run, they fell to the hosts, Alexandria Sporting Club, with a score of 59-103. This achievement marked the first time a Kenyan team had finished on the podium since KPA’s first continental appearance in 1998.
In addition to KPA, Kenya is also being represented by the Equity Bank Hawks. Both teams face stiff competition from Egypt’s Al Ahly, Rwanda’s APR, and REG, among others. The tournament will run until Saturday, November 2.
KPA Squad:
1. Natalie Akinyi
2. Linda Alando
3. Belinda Okoth
4. Hilda Ndegwa
5. Rachael Wandago
6. Rebecca Nkatha
7. Annerose Mandela
8. Vilma Owino
9. Selina Okumu
10. Nkem Akariwe
11. Veronica Keita
12. Alima Doumbia
13. Chantal Kiyobe
14. Emily Rawayo
Participating Teams:
– Al Ahly (Egypt)
– KPA (Kenya)
– Equity Bank Hawks (Kenya)
– Hawassa City (Ethiopia)
– APR (Rwanda)
– REG (Rwanda)
– Fox Divas (Tanzania)
– Vijana Queens (Tanzania)
– JKL Lady (Uganda)
