ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo, through his foundation, is set to host a thrilling finale to the men’s and women’s national basketball leagues.
The top six teams from each league will battle it out in a mini-tournament, promising high-stakes competition and generous rewards.
The champions will claim a grand prize of 300,000 shillings, while the runners-up will walk away with 200,000 shillings. Third place will be awarded 100,000 shillings, and even the losing teams will receive a consolation prize of 50,000 shillings. Additionally, individual awards will be presented, with each winner receiving 20,000 shillings.
Scheduled for the weekend of May 10-12, the tournament will take place at both the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata and the Nyayo National Stadium Gymnasium.
Eliud Owalo expressed his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing its role in promoting basketball and providing a platform for talented players to showcase their skills. Scouts will be in attendance to identify promising talent and support their career progression.
Coming at the end of the regular season, the tournament offers a valuable opportunity for teams to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the upcoming playoffs, slated to commence in early June.
The men’s top six includes Nairobi City Thunder, United States International University – Africa (USIU-A), KPA, Ulinzi Warriors, Equity Dumas, and the Strathmore Blades, while the women’s top six consists of KPA, Equity Hawks, USIU Flames, Zetech Sparks, Storms, and Eldonets.
Thunder head coach Brad Ibs welcomed the tournament as a chance to provide his players with crucial game time and ensure they are in peak condition for the playoffs. Despite the timing posing a challenge, Ibs views the tournament as an opportunity to gauge his team’s readiness against tough competition.
Eliud Owalo emphasized the tournament’s aim to elevate the standards of basketball in Kenya. He stressed the importance of hosting more tournaments to complement the efforts of the Kenya Basketball Federation in promoting the sport.
Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate a competitive national team capable of competing at the continental level, a feat achievable only through a robust league and such prestigious tournaments.
