KNBL review: Zetech Sparks maintain perfect run

Despite a stunning victory over defending champions Equity Hawks, Zetech Sparks head coach Maurice Obilo admitted that his team did not start have the best of starts in their weekend clash.

Zetech edged Equity 69-61 in a closely contested Kenya National Women’s Basketball Premier League match held at Nyayo Gymnasium, Nairobi. The win preserved their unbeaten streak in the league.

“We started slowly against Equity. Heavy rains affected our travel, and players arrived at different times, so we didn’t get enough time to warm up together as a team,” Obilo lamented.  “Nonetheless, our consistency throughout the game paid off. We kept doing the right things repeatedly, and that helped us win.”

Obilo also praised Equity Hawks, recognizing their pedigree and experience.

“Equity are a strong and seasoned team. This result doesn’t mean we’ll always beat them, but it shows the importance of hard work. They are the defending champions, have won the league several times, and know what it takes to bounce back,” he added.

He further noted the growing competitiveness in the league: “All teams are improving day by day. The premier league is getting tougher, so we must keep working and stick to our game plan as we chase a good outcome this season.”

Zetech sit second with 32 points after 17 games, boasting 15 wins and only two losses, with five games remaining. Equity, meanwhile, leads with 33 points from 19 matches, having won 14 and lost five. They have three games left in the regular season.

Ulinzi Warriors shine with double wins

In the men’s premier league, Ulinzi Warriors head coach Bernard Mufutu praised his players after they secured back-to-back victories over the weekend.

The soldiers beat Strathmore Blades 71-59 on Saturday before overpowering Equity Dumas 74-60 on Sunday in Kenya National Men’s Basketball Premier League action.

“The resilience, hard work, determination, and teamwork from the boys enabled us to secure both wins,” said Mufutu. “We take it one game at a time. Basketball is a game of mistakes, and we’re working hard to minimize the common ones.”

Mufutu urged his squad to maintain focus and continue pushing hard, especially as playoffs approach.

“Consistency and passion are key, and the team has shown both. What remains a concern is maintaining mental focus throughout the game. That’s the area we’re focusing on,” he added.

Ulinzi currently has 34 points from 20 matches, with 14 wins and six losses. They have two games remaining in the regular season.

Weekend Results

Women’s Premier League (WP):

Zetech Sparks 69-61 Equity Hawks

ANU Panthers 54-30 Storms

The Swish 51-36 Eldonets

UON Dynamites 54-34 Eldonets

Storms 47-71 USIU Flames

Safe Spaces 44-51 Strathmore Swords

Equity Hawks 57-66 Stanbic Aces

Men’s Premier League (MP):

Umoja 61-83 Nairobi City Thunder

KPA 80-71 NBK Phenix

USIU Tigers 82-84 Equity Dumas

UON Terror 83-93 Stanbic Shields

Ulinzi Warriors 71-59 Strathmore Blades

ANU Wolfpacks 52-68 USIU Tigers

Umoja 80-73 Strathmore Blades

Ulinzi Warriors 74-60 Equity Dumas