This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
On Monday, the Kenya men's basketball team, nicknamed the Morans, made history by winning the Fiba Africa Zone Five Championship at the Lugogo Indoor Court.
The tournament, which served as a qualifier for the 2019 African Games, was a week-long event that saw Kenya's men's team crowned champions after Uganda's Silver Bucks defeated Rwanda 77-71 in the final match.
Kenya's victory was a significant milestone, as it marked the first time a Kenyan men's team had beaten Egypt, with a 97-79 win on Day Two of the championship.
Kenyan player Tyler Okari, based in Denmark, was named the Most Valuable Player of the championships, beating out notable players like former NBA star Brandon Davies.
With their win, Kenya secured a spot in the Afrobasket Championships, to be held in Mali later this month. The women's team, the Lionesses, will compete in Senegal for the Afro-basket Championships for women.
Kenya's men's team had faced a tense situation after losing to Rwanda on Saturday, but their victory ensured they would not be surpassed by Rwanda, who needed a win against Uganda to claim the championship.
"It's God's will. He is the one who has handed us this victory. I will always walk with our amazing God. This time we assembled the most awesome crop of players. They are self-disciplined, patriotic and are ready to fight to the last minute to defend our beloved country. Their fighting spirit shocked even the hosts. They weathered the worst storm to bring honour to our country," said Kenya Basketball Federation chairman Paul Otula.
