This archive report was first published on 28 October 2019.
On October 27, 2019, Ulinzi Warriors, the 2019 Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) men's Premier League first runners-up, secured a narrow away win of 80-78 against Lakeside in Kisumu, putting them one foot in the league semis playoffs.
Despite missing key players, including James Mwangi and Alvin Nyangweso, and having captain John Washika pick up an injury, the Warriors showed great form, winning the first quarter 25-22 and the second half 25-21.
Eric Mutora led the team with 38 points, while Victor Bosire scored 22 for Lakeside, and Okitoyi. J scored 24 for the home team.
Speaking after the match, Ulinzi captain John Washika said, "We are going to work on the small lapses we had in order to secure a second win to qualify for the semifinals."
Meanwhile, league newcomers Eldonets utilized their home ground advantage by humiliating last season's semifinalist Thunder 63-53 in their Game One match played in Eldoret.
Ulinzi topped the regular league this season with 43 points, 13 points ahead of Kisumu at position eight.
