KPA highlight areas of concern ahead of WBLA return
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 18.11.25. | 13:40
The continental competition has been penciled for from 5 December in Cairo, with Al Ahly Sporting playing hosts
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) earned their spot in the upcoming Women's Basketball League Africa (WBLA), scheduled for next month in Cairo, after a dramatic performance in the Zone Five Qualifiers' third-place match at Nyayo Gymnasium in Nairobi.
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The hosts, under the leadership of Antony Ojukwu, showcased resilience and determination to finish third in a fiercely contested nine-team tournament won by APR at the expense of Rwanda Energy Group (REG).
After a disappointing 62-45 semis performance against REG, hosts KPA headed for the must-win bronze match, ready to fight, and they did.
The match took a dramatic turn when Ojukwu’s side fell into trouble, with star players Betty Kananu and Mercy Wanyama fouling out.
Despite the setbacks, KPA held their nerve, forcing the game into overtime after a tense final period filled with missed opportunities on both sides.
In the extra period, KPA’s experience shone through.
The Kenyan team dominated 14-6, securing an 89-81 victory and sealing their spot in the WBLA.
The win was hard-fought and underscored the team’s resilience, particularly under pressure.
Post-match, KPA’s assistant coach Dorcas Anyango emphasized the importance of mental toughness and tactical adjustments. “We are fortunate to have redeemed ourselves in overtime. While we need to work on our tactical consistency, the bigger challenge is building our players’ mental resilience, especially after losing leads in our final group match and the semis,” she told Mozzart Sport.
KPA guard Natalie Akinyi reflected on the team’s experience and composure, highlighting how their collective experience and resolve were crucial during critical moments.
“Losing the semifinals and missing the final tour last year fueled our motivation. Our experience in the final quarter, especially after Betty and Mercy fouled out, played a significant role in our victory. Moving forward, we aim to strengthen both our offense and defense,” she said, promising a better show on the continental stage, where they return after missing out in 2024.
