Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the KBF Premier League champions, marked a triumphant return by defeating Elan Coton from Benin with a score of 67-48 in the ongoing Road to 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
KPA’s journey in the tournament faced an initial setback when they lost 75-63 to Burundi’s Dynamo BBC. However, in their match against Elan Coton, KPA displayed determination and vigour, keeping their hopes alive in the Elite 16 stage.
The game’s early minutes saw a cautious start by the Kenyan side. Captain Tobias Odhiambo scored KPA’s first point through a free throw, and Elan Coton managed to score three unanswered baskets.
The game briefly halted as KPA’s Okall Koranga sustained an injury in the sixth minute of the first quarter. Following this break, both teams traded baskets, but KPA regained their composure and ended the first quarter with a lead of 15-14.
The second quarter witnessed KPA’s resurgence as players like Eugene Adera and Lennox Wanje, coming in as substitutes, made a significant impact. The team’s second unit increased the pace of the game, leading to a dominant performance by KPA.
A noteworthy improvement in defence, led by Martin Kitongo and Bright Osagie, helped to control the paint. At the backcourt, players like Lennox Wanje, Tyron Maliek Jordan, and Eugene Adera stood tall. KPA concluded the first half with a comfortable lead, scoring 35-26.
In the second half, KPA maintained their grip on the game, displaying a strong and composed performance until the final whistle. KPA adopted a man-to-man defence strategy, intensifying their pressure on Elan Coton’s guards. This defensive strategy caused turnovers and enabled KPA to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
KPA entered the fourth quarter with a lead of 48-37, and they continued to dominate, outscoring Elan Coton 20-11 in the final quarter. The game concluded with KPA securing a victory at 68-48.
With this crucial win, KPA temporarily occupies the top position in their group, amassing four points. They are followed closely by hosts Pazi Basketball Club, who are in second place with a game in hand.
Elan Cotton currently holds the third position with two points, while Dynamo Basketball Club from Burundi occupies the last place in the group.
The journey to the Elite 16 stage remains challenging, with only the group leaders earning the opportunity to advance.
