Kenya boys’ and girls’ teams tackle Rwanda in the FIBA Africa Zone 5 U18 semifinals at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, in Kampala, Uganda, on Thursday.
The Kenyans seek to redeem themselves after falling 81-52 and 56-47 to the Rwandese in the preliminary rounds. The girls' tie will tip off at noon while the boys’ match will be at 2:30 pm.
Boys’ tactician Martin Okwako promised to make defensive adjustments.
“Our confidence level has shot up and our team system is developing. The boys are starting to be disciplined on the offence A lot of adjustments on the defensive end is needed, especially rotations,” said Okwako. “Being out of Zone V for a couple of years has opened our eyes and approach for the future.”
He will rely on Powell Owino, Patrick Gathura, Clinton Wambugu, Ryan Otieno and Remugius Tero.
Girls’ coach, Rose Mshila, said Rwanda is a highly competitive team that presents a good match-up for the Kenyans.
“Getting an opportunity to face them again gives us a chance to redeem ourselves. We hope to lock them down defensively, by getting our rotations on the floor better,” noted Mshila.
Valentine Korir and Roseline Akinyi have been superb in the Kenyan attack. The duo should combine well with Mariam Wangare, Trizah Akinyi and Rachel Achieng to propel Kenya through.
The other semifinal matches will see hosts Uganda, who topped their pools in the boys’ and girls’ categories, take on bottom teams Tanzania.
The winning teams will book tickets to the FIBA Africa Championships in South Africa in August.
