Lady Bucks, Lakeside ready for new KBF season

Lakeside's Trevor Gari (left) in action against Strathmore University's Ariel Ortega during 2019 Biro Lich Basketball tournament in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Lady Bucks head coach Dave Michael says he is optimistic his side will churn out positive results when they begin the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Premier League season today.

The Kisumu-based side were promoted to the Women’s Premier League alongside Riara University after emerging top in Division One playoff finals and Michael is upbeat of a good start when they take on Storms.

Michael said they are ready despite the challenges facing the team which has lost more than four first-team starters in the past year.

“Covid-19 has disrupted our plans for the past one year not just for us but for everyone. We started preparation late, but we just have to play the games and then we will adjust one game after the other,” he said.

Lady Bucks take on Storms before facing Strathmore University tomorrow at Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium

Coach Michael said their main objective in the first and second leg is to make the last eight and book a place in the playoffs.

Lady Bucks's Dranny Futo in action against Migori's Davine Auma. [Washington Onyango, Standard]

Lady Bucks has roped in Alice Adhiambo previously unattached to replace former point guard Carol Akinyi who joined KPA. They have also signed Sharon Adegu and Nancy Kevine.

In the men’s Premier League, Lakeside Kisumu will begin their campaign against Thunder today before playing Emyba tomorrow.

Lakeside have signed Ocholla Bryan from KPA, Marko Odhiambo from KU Pirates, Joshua Carter from Barcelona, George Collins, Jayden Simiyu and Allan Kibira seeking to better last season’s quarterfinals playoffs finish.

The team will travel without veteran players Tim Adede, Isaiah Kiyaka, Denis Wekesa, Carter and Kibira.

At the same time, defending champions Ulinzi Warriors take on Umoja today in the second match of the new campaign.

National team players Eric Mutoro and Joseph Khaemba will be back for Ulinzi.