Ulinzi Warriors assistant coach Esther Butali says their National Basketball League victory over champions Kenya Ports Authority has given them much-needed confidence going forward.
The tactician, who was in charge of the soldiers in that closely fought 82-81 triumph over the porters at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday described his team’s effort as crucial in their title quest.
“The boys played well and this result gives us huge confidence. We have a young team which is still learning and seeing this kind of effort from them is an indication that we are on the right course,” said Butali.
KPA were seeking maximum points in their two fixtures to close in on unbeaten leaders Nairobi City Thunder, who have 22 points from 11 matches.
The champions are third on the 12-team log with 16 points.
“We minimised our mistakes unlike when we played Thunder," she said. "We did not allow them to take open shots. We also prevented them from hitting three-pointers.”
“I also asked my players to attack the basket by taking the ball inside which caused KPA a lot of problems.”
On Saturday, KPA blanked tenth-placed Absa 76-56. Tobias Odhiambo registered 14 points, Dolph Otieno had 13 and Job Byron added 10.
A Division Two match saw Peninah Nthenya’s Moischers thrash Cabal Elitists 83-51 as Abdullahi Said and Tenglo Deng provided 17 points each. Dangerman Jeff Onyango dropped 15.
In a ladies Division One match-up, third-placed Butere Girls won their 10th game of the season, beating Eagle Wings 70-50.
The weekend action was the last for the year as the league takes a Christmas and New Year break. Action resumes on January 27.
