Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) head coach Anthony Ojukwu acknowledged his team’s current lack of fitness after the holiday break but celebrated two victories in Nairobi.
The reigning Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Women’s Premier League champions defeated Storms 74-40 on Saturday and secured a 67-24 victory over Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on Sunday, both matches played at the USIU Courts.
Ojukwu admitted, “We are coming up well but still very unfit,” emphasizing the team’s ongoing efforts to achieve optimal conditioning since their return from the holidays. KPA demonstrated their depth and togetherness in the squad, overcoming fitness challenges.
Having been on a lengthy break since their second-place finish at the Africa Club Championships in early December, KPA only resumed training two weeks ago. Even without captain Natalie Akinyi, who is away with the national 3×3 team, KPA showcased their strength in depth against both Storms and JKUAT.
Coach Ojukwu expressed confidence in the team’s improvement over time, stating, “We are a bit shaky but we will get better with time.” The team’s unbeaten record in the league positions them well to defend their title.
In their victory over JKUAT, Malian Aminata Ssemasekou stood out with 12 points, while Yvonne Atieno contributed eight. KPA is set to bolster their squad with the signing of DR Congo international Grace Malu, expected to replace Jemimah Omondi, who left for Equity. Additionally, Annrose Mandela has joined KPA after a stint with Equity.
KPA’s successful performances highlight their resilience and depth, signaling a promising season ahead despite ongoing fitness challenges.
