Equity Bank Hawks coach Ben Oluoch is optimistic about securing a second win in the Africa Women’s Basketball League (AWBL) as his team prepares to face Overdose Up Station of Cameroon in their final Group B match in Alexandria, Egypt.
With one victory in three matches, Oluoch emphasizes the importance of defeating Overdose to enhance their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals. “We need to win against Overdose to avoid the maths. We have a good chance of doing so if we maintain focus and take care of the ball,” says Oluoch.
Both Equity Bank Hawks and Overdose Up Station secured their sole victories against ASPAC of Benin. Equity Bank Hawks dominated ASPAC with an 87-69 victory, while Overdose Up Station triumphed with a 77-52 score.
In their recent match, Equity Bank faced a tough loss against Rwanda Energy Group (REG), led by WNBA stars Tiffany Mitchell and Nia Clouden. REG secured an 84-50 victory, with Mitchell and Promised each contributing 21 points, and Clouden scoring 15.
Hawks’ center Grace Irebu posted 20 points, the only player reaching double digits for Equity Bank. The team now aims to rebound in the decisive match against Overdose Up Station.
Meanwhile, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) continued their winning streak, defeating Universite de Douala of Cameroon with a convincing 66-41 score. With three wins, KPA is set to face host team Alexandria Sporting Club (ASC) in a crucial fixture to determine the Group A leader heading into the quarterfinals.
Victoria Reynolds showcased her scoring prowess with a game-high 24 points, supported by Hilda Indasi with 15 points. KPA’s strong performance secured a 25-point lead at 66-41. Cynthia Williams and Jose Diane led Universite de Douala with 17 and 15 points, respectively.
The AWBL action intensifies as teams vie for quarterfinal berths, with Equity Bank Hawks eager to secure their spot with a pivotal win against Overdose Up Station.
