The Zetech Sparks from the University ranks claimed a historic victory over the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) women’s basketball team with a 59-50 win in the Eliud Owalo Foundation Elite Tournament final In a stunning upset.
The game, which took place at the Ulinzi Complex, marked the first home soil loss for KPA in nearly four years.
The Zetech Sparks, who had previously swept KPA in last season’s league play-offs final, came prepared with a strategic game plan crafted by Coach Maurice Obilo. “It’s a tremendous achievement for the team. KPA is a formidable opponent, and to emerge victorious is no small accomplishment. Our hard work was evident on the court, though it doesn’t necessarily mean we’re superior to KPA; fortune was on our side today,” Obilo expressed.
On the other side, KPA’s Anthony Ojukwu accepted the defeat gracefully. “Some days just don’t go as planned, and today was one such day. Zetech outperformed us and earned their win. That’s the nature of sports,” he commented post-game.
Zetech’s recent recruit, Cameroonian player Mitchelle Soukoujou, shone brightly, scoring a game-high 20 points and playing a pivotal role as point guard. Madina Okot also made a significant impact with 12 points and 19 rebounds.
Despite a strong performance from KPA’s Grace Irebu, who notched 19 points and 11 rebounds, it wasn’t enough to break free from Zetech’s grip. Zetech led the game from the start and maintained their lead, despite a spirited comeback from KPA in the third quarter.
The match saw Zetech reclaiming the lead with less than seven minutes left on the clock, thanks to Soukoujou’s three-pointer. Okot’s subsequent three-pointer widened the gap, and despite missed free throws from Ashley Minayo and Christine Akinyi, Zetech secured the win.
The triumph not only granted Zetech bragging rights but also a prize of Sh300,000, a reward for their determination and skill on the court.
