Kenya’s national men’s basketball team suffers a quarterfinal defeat in the AfroCan Basketball Tournament in Luanda, Angola. They were eliminated after a 55-46 loss to Morocco on Thursday.
The Morans got off to a shaky start, trailing 17-10 and 17-12 in the first and second quarters, respectively. However, they mounted a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring their opponents 15-9.
At 34-22 in favour of Morocco, Kenya fought back with impressive plays from Eric Mutoro of Ulinzi Warriors, who scored a two-pointer and a three-pointer in quick succession. Victor Bosire added another three-pointer, bringing the score to 35-30. Morocco’s Kevin Bruno Franceschi contributed with one of two free throws.
Despite their efforts, turnovers and fouls by the Kenyan team allowed Morocco to regain control and extend their lead to 42-30. Fidel Okoth’s jump shot narrowed the gap, but Mutoro’s two-point jump shot and three-pointer brought Kenya within striking distance at 43-37.
In the final quarter, Bryan Sivachi converted two free throws and Bosire scored another three-pointer, making it 45-42. However, turnovers hindered Kenya’s chances of catching up as Morocco took advantage, ultimately securing a 55-46 victory.
Derrick Ogechi’s three-pointer briefly revived Kenya’s hopes, but Morocco maintained control and sealed the win. Bosire scored a last-second half-basket, providing a small consolation for Kenya.
Coach Cliff Owuor’s team aimed to replicate their 2019 success when they reached the tournament’s final but fell short against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
