Kenya National Basketball Premier League (KNBL) playoffs, Equity Dumas clinched the third-place medal with a hard-fought 71-66 victory over Strathmore Blades. The match, held on Sunday at Nyayo Gymnasium, showcased the intense competition and high stakes of Kenyan basketball.
The game began with both teams displaying their strengths, but it was Equity Dumas who took a slight edge in the first quarter, leading 22-20. Despite a determined effort from Strathmore Blades, the Dumas managed to extend their lead in the second quarter with a 15-13 win, resulting in a halftime score of 37-33 in their favor.
Equity Dumas, who had been thoroughly defeated by the Nairobi City Thunder in the semifinals, came into the third quarter with renewed vigor. Their performance in this quarter, where they outscored Strathmore 20-13, was crucial in establishing a solid lead. The Blades, however, showed resilience and fought back in the fourth quarter, winning it 20-14. Their efforts, though commendable, fell short of overturning the deficit, and the game ended with a 71-66 victory for Equity Dumas.
Equity Dumas Head Coach Carrey Odhiambo reflected on the season with a mix of disappointment and optimism. “The season did not end well for us; we lost important games in the semis. However, we are going to regroup and prepare well for the coming season,” he stated. Odhiambo’s comments highlight the team’s recognition of their shortcomings and their commitment to improvement.
On the other hand, Strathmore Blades Head Coach Tony Ochieng praised his team’s perseverance despite the challenges they faced throughout the season. “I want to congratulate my boys for the good work so far. We started the season on a wrong foot, losing eight players in a row, but ended up in the semi which was a good show. Come next season, we are going to train and prepare well,” Ochieng remarked. His praise underscores the Blades’ remarkable recovery and determination despite early-season setbacks.
In the women’s division, Zetech Sparks secured their place in third position with a narrow 46-40 win over Strathmore Swords. This match, also played on Saturday morning at Nyayo Gymnasium, highlighted the competitive nature of the women’s league. Zetech Sparks’ victory was a testament to their strong performance and strategic gameplay, allowing them to finish the season on a high note.
The KNBL playoffs have once again demonstrated the exciting and unpredictable nature of Kenyan basketball. Teams like Equity Dumas and Strathmore Blades have shown impressive skill and resilience, while the women’s league continues to showcase the talent and competitiveness of female athletes in Kenya. As the season concludes, the focus will shift to preparations for the next, with teams aiming to build on their experiences and come back stronger.
Overall, the playoffs have provided thrilling basketball action and have set the stage for an exciting future in Kenyan basketball. Fans can look forward to the next season with anticipation, as teams regroup and prepare to take on new challenges in their quest for the championship.
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