This archive report was first published on 15 November 2019.
Kenya Ports Authority, Strathmore University Blades Renew Rivalry in Playoff Quarters ¶
On Saturday, November 16, 2019, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Strathmore University Blades will clash in the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Premier League play-offs quarter finals at Nyayo National Stadium.
The match is a repeat of last season's semi-final clash, where KPA edged Blades en route to clinching the title. KPA finished fourth in the regular league with 38 points and are enjoying a fine form after storming to the second round of the Africa Basketball League Qualifiers in Rwanda.
KPA head coach Sammy Kiki is confident his side will reign supreme once again. 'All players are available since there is no serious injuries, we will treat this game with a lot of seriousness to win so as to advantage at home for Game Two and Three,' Kiki said.
However, Kiki bemoaned the lack of facilities which has hampered their training in preparation for the encounter. 'Preparations are on-going although we have been having challenges in getting a training venue in Nairobi since Nyayo is occupied for now but we have managed to train,' Kiki observed.
On the other hand, Blades head coach Tony Ochieng is expecting a tricky duel as he seeks to upset the Dockers. 'I am just working on mental toughness by preparing the boys to believe they can. KPA have a star-studded team and their guards are good and well exposed,' Ochieng said.
The two teams will then meet in Game Two and Three of the playoffs at Makande Gymnasium in Mombasa on November 23-24. In the women Premier League playoffs, former champions KPA will take on Eagle Wings in Game One of quarter final playoffs.
