The Kenya Lionesses were narrowly defeated by Canada with a score of 17-11 in the opening match of the 3×3 basketball Universality One final Olympic qualification tournament held in Japan in a valiant display of skill and determination on Friday morning.
Despite a spirited performance, the Lionesses found it challenging to keep pace with the Canadian team’s efficiency, particularly in the second half. Nevertheless, the Kenyan team’s effort against one of the tournament’s top contenders was commendable.
Madina Okot stood out for the Lionesses, contributing five points and securing four rebounds. Victoria Reynolds also made a notable impact with five points and three rebounds.
Canada’s proficiency was evident in their two-point shooting, with Paige Crozon making four out of 11 attempts, adding a significant 10 points to her team’s tally.
The game commenced with an evenly matched contest, as the Lionesses matched the Canadians point for point, leading to an early tie at 4-4. However, the Canadian team focused on extending their range, with Crozon and Michelle Ploufe making multiple attempts from beyond the arc.
This strategy paid off as Canada gained a 9-6 lead, prompting a strategic timeout by Kenya. Despite this, Canada managed to extend their lead with consecutive baskets, pushing the score to 11-6.
Reynolds responded with a two-pointer, narrowing the deficit to 11-8, followed by Wanyama’s basket, which brought the game within a two-point margin.
Canada then intensified their defense and maintained control of the game, with the Lionesses’ hurried attempts to score ultimately working against them.
The loss means that the Kenya Lionesses must secure at least one victory on the second day of the tournament, Saturday, to keep their semi-final aspirations alive.
The tournament structure dictates that only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, with the overall winner earning a coveted spot in the Olympic Games.
The Lionesses are set to face Australia and the Netherlands on Saturday, providing them with an opportunity to rebound and advance in the competition.
