Les Hippos eye strong finish after narrow loss to REG in Zone 5 qualifiers

The KCB Bank Burundi–sponsored side showed grit and discipline throughout the encounter but were undone by REG’s late surge in the final quarter. Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic about closing their campaign on a high note.

Head coach Josue Ndimugakiza commended his players for their fighting spirit, noting that the experience gained in Nairobi has been invaluable.

“We’ve shown great growth throughout the tournament. Today’s result doesn’t reflect our true potential, and we’re determined to finish strong tomorrow. Our focus now is on executing better and ending the qualifiers with a win,” he said.

Les Hippos made a commanding return to the court earlier in the week after two days of rest, delivering a dominant 91–65 victory over Tanzania’s Don Bosco Lioness — a performance that reaffirmed their strength and resilience in regional competition.

The Burundian outfit will now look to replicate that form as they chase a top-five finish in the Zone 5 qualifiers at the same venue