KPA set for six friendly matches in Rwanda

Coach Sammy Kiki is confident KPA's pre-season trip away in Rwanda will go a long way in preparing the squad better for the season ahead where they expect to among other things qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL). 

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) men's and women's sides are on a week-long visit in Rwanda where they will play friendly matches against local clubs ahead of the league commencement set for 4 June. The two sides are, however, not in action until the second weekend. 

The men's side begin their friendly matches on Monday 23 May against APR before taking on Patriots on Tuesday 24 May. 

A day of rest will then be followed by a clash against Titans on 26 May before finishing their matches on 27 May against Orion. 

The women's team has two matches confirmed so far, against Hoops and REG on 24 and 27 May respectively. Other teams are yet to confirm availability. 

"We have a busy season ahead that includes playing in the BAL qualifiers and it was important to have a pre-season camp that gets the new players this kind of exposure. 

In addition to playing against some of the best teams in Rwanda, we have also made arrangements to watch some BAL action. This gives us a perspective of what to expect as we make our second appearance in the qualifiers. 

We are also likely to meet some of these teams whether in the qualifying matches or in the tournament itself as we will strive to book our ticket and watching them in action gives us a sneak peak of the level of competition we will be up against," offered Kiki. 

The dockers will be looking to defend the title they won last month while at the same time fighting to become the first Kenyan club to feature in the NBA-managed BAL which will be in its third edition. 

KPA failed to qualify for the inaugural edition as did Ulinzi Warriors in their quest to be part of the second edition whose playoffs are ongoing in Rwanda. 

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