• BASKETBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 months ago

KPA stay on course for glory at Women’s Basketball League Africa in Egypt

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) continued their flawless run at the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Africa after overpowering Nigeria’s First Bank 82–53 in a commanding Group B clash played on Sunday at the Al Ahly Arena in Cairo.

‎‎The Dockers set the tone early with a fast start, racing to a 19–13 lead in the opening quarter, powered by sharp shooting from Aminata Samassekou and strong control from Alexus Johnson. KPA’s aggressive defenCe disrupted First Bank’s rhythm, forcing rushed shots and repeated turnovers.

‎‎The second quarter proved decisive as KPA tightened their grip on the contest, outscoring their opponents to take a commanding 45–24 halftime advantage.

Samassekou shook off a quiet opening game to ignite her scoring touch, while Johnson’s control of both ends of the floor kept the Dockers firmly in charge.

‎‎KPA’s superior ball movement, disciplined transition play and balanced attack continued to expose First Bank’s struggles, with the Nigerian side shooting below 20 percent for most of the game.

Sara Dickey and the Dockers’ supporting cast added depth to the offense as KPA maintained full control.

‎‎Samassekou topped the scoring charts with 20 points, while both she and Johnson posted impressive efficiency ratings of 22, underlining their all-round impact.

By the end of the third quarter, KPA had stretched their lead to 73–43, before comfortably closing out the game at 82–53.

‎‎Statistically, KPA were clinical, shooting 52.3 percent from inside the arc, 31.8 percent from long range and 60 percent from the free-throw line.

First Bank, on the other hand, endured a difficult night, managing just 18.4 percent on two-pointers and 18.6 percent from beyond the arc.

‎‎The victory lifts KPA to two wins from two matches in Group B, as the Kenyan champions now turn their focus to a heavyweight showdown against defending champions Ferroviario of Mozambique on Tuesday at 6pm East Africa Time.

‎‎With confidence high and momentum firmly on their side, the Dockers will be aiming to extend their winning start against the toughest opposition in the group.