This archive report was first published on 22 October 2019.
On October 22, 2019, the 2019 Biro Lich Basketball Tournament came to a close with Lakeside and USIU Flames being crowned the men's and women's champions respectively.
The all-Kisumu final saw Lakeside defeat Kisumu Select 76-71 at the Jomo Kenyatta Sports ground in Kisumu, securing their first title in the tournament.
Lakeside's dominance throughout the two-day tournament was evident, as they won all their group matches and later defeated Maweni Hornets 26-8 in the quarterfinals and Stanbic Bank 26-22 in the semi-finals.
On the other hand, Kisumu Select made a strong impression by beating KBF side USIU men 27-26 in the second semi-finals.
"We are very happy to bring the title back home after last year's regional disappointments. We started the tournament well and am glad we have improved since gaining promotion to KBF,” said Lakeside coach John Ogilo.
Defending champions Ulinzi Warriors failed to participate in the tournament, which aims at fighting drugs and crime through sports.
USIU Flames successfully defended their title in the women's finals, defeating Lady Bucks 26-16 in a repeat of last year's finals.
Cliff Owuor's charges finished the tourney unbeaten, despite closely edging Migori County 26-23.
“Our focus now shifts to KBF where we are looking forward to surviving and come out of the relegation zone. The win is a big buster to the girls and the team who performed at their best in the expense of our key players who were not available,” said Cliff Owuor.
Sila Awuor of Lakeside was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player in the men's category, while Jemimah Omondi of USIU Flames scooped the ladies' title.
