BANKERS UPBEAT

Hawks turn to AfroBasket Zone 5 after ruling national league

Assistant coach Samba Mjomba said: "Our goal is to build on this success by continuing to develop our players and recruit new talent."

In Summary

• Captain Natalie Akinyi led with 21 points while Grace Irebu and Selina Okumu combined for 28.

• Nairobi City Thunder swept defending champions KPA 3-0 in the finals.

Equity Bank's Betty Kananu (R) charges past Debra Atieno of KPA during a past KBF match
Equity Bank's Betty Kananu (R) charges past Debra Atieno of KPA during a past KBF match
Image: FILE

After clinching the Kenya National Basketball League title, Equity Bank Hawks have shifted their focus to the AfroBasket Zone Five League later in the year.

Assistant coach Samba Mjomba said: "Our goal is to build on this success by continuing to develop our players and recruit new talent."

Hawks claimed their fourth title after a hard-fought series final against defending champions Kenya Ports Authority.

"This championship means everything to me. It's a testament to our hard work and dedication," she said.

Hawks, having dominated games One and Two in Nairobi, faced a resilient KPA, who fought back to bag games Three and Four in their Makande Welfare Hall last weekend.

The Nairobi-based Bankers, however, had the energy to go over the line with a 76-74 win in the decider, which went into overtime.

Hawks won Game One 67-62 and Two 66-64. KPA bagged Three and Four 64-50 and 74-54 respectively.

Captain Natalie Akinyi led with 21 points while Grace Irebu and Selina Okumu combined for 28.

Betty Kananu, who nailed 15 points, was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP).

"We faced several challenges this season but our hard work and dedication paid off," Mjomba noted. "It's time to take a moment and celebrate this achievement before regrouping."

Nairobi City Thunder swept defending champions KPA 3-0 in the finals.

Thunder sealed the title with an 86-48 victory in Game Three at Nyayo Stadium gymnasium. They had won games One and Two 70-73 and 59-50 respectively.

Thunder captain Griffin Ligare was named the series MVP while Albert Odero earned the regular season MVP honours.

"Our eyes are fixed on the upcoming competitions," said Thunder coach Ben Oluoch. "This win is a testament to our planning and the dedication of our players."

Thunder and Hawks took home Sh350,000 while runners-ups, KPA, received Sh100,000.