KPA Dominates AWBL Opener with Okot’s Double-Double, Defeating CNSS 82-46

Madina Okot showcased an outstanding double-double performance, amassing 20 points and 18 rebounds, as the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) commenced their Africa Women’s Basketball League (AWBL) campaign with a resounding 82-46 victory over DR Congo’s CNSS in Alexandria, Egypt, on Tuesday night.

Fresh from contributing to Kenya’s Africa 3×3 title triumph, Okot further impressed with five steals and a block. Victoria Reynolds delivered a standout performance, scoring a game-high 23 points, with 18 of those coming from beyond the arc, converting six of her eight three-point attempts.

Coach Anthony Ojukwu reflected on the game, stating, “We started badly but were able to adjust in the second quarter and take a comfortable lead for the win. It was all about concentration and focus, and we should have done better from the start.”

He emphasized the importance of energy and team desire in the second quarter, leading to the significant turnaround. Ojukwu acknowledged the physicality of CNSS, noting that his team had to play smart to secure the victory.

KPA initially struggled to find their rhythm, trailing 8-6 and 15-13 in the closely contested first quarter. The second quarter saw a remarkable improvement for KPA, shutting out CNSS for only 4 points while scoring 24.

Grace Tolo made a critical layup, bringing the score to 17-16 in favor of KPA, and the team went on a 20-point rally to lead 36-17. Tolo again contributed with two free throws, ensuring KPA finished the quarter with a commanding 37-19 lead.

KPA continued their dominance in the third and fourth quarters, securing the victory with a comprehensive performance.

Coach Ojukwu emphasized a focused approach, stating, “We are taking this competition one game at a time while believing we are one of the favorites. We will not underrate any team as we want to finish in a good position for the next round.”

In another match, Equity Hawks revived their campaign with an 87-69 win over Benin’s Aspac, bouncing back from an opening day defeat. Equity’s Malu Grace and Betty Kananu both recorded double-double performances, with Malu contributing 25 points and 17 rebounds, and Kananu adding 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Skipper Melissa Akinyi and Maryanne Nyagaki also had noteworthy performances, contributing 21 and 11 points, respectively.