Divas bounce back in style to stun USA

Kenya netball team in action against Singapore during the UAE Netball Tournament in Dubai on June 17, 2025. [Courtesy]

After a slow start that saw them lose their first two matches by narrow margins, Kenya's national netball team, popularly known as The Divas, bounced back in style with a commanding 66-25 victory over the USA at the ongoing UAE Netball Tournament in Dubai on Tuesday.

Kenya started strongly, taking the first quarter 17-3, with Delilah Akinyi and Hellen Sinoya leading the attack. The duo's sharp shooting and coordination gave Kenya an early advantage.

An early injury to Akinyi at the start of the second quarter forced coach Mugisha Ali to make a quick change. Her replacement, Lucy Akumu, stepped in seamlessly and took over the goal-shooting duties, helping stretch the lead to 34-9 by halftime.

Ali continued to make strategic adjustments, with Elsa Ndong, who was playing at wing attack, replaced by Vida Adhiambo, also after sustaining an injury, while Mary came in for Irine Atieno at centre. The substitutions ensured Kenya maintained their momentum, winning the third quarter 54-17.

The Divas stayed dominant through the final stretch, closing out the match with a resounding 66-25 win.

Kenya will next face tournament hosts UAE on Thursday, followed by a match against Ireland.

Despite earlier losses to Namibia (41-33) and Singapore (42-40), Ali remains optimistic about the team's chances of reaching the finals.

"Today's game was very physical. We picked up two injuries, but overall, the team played very well. The defence was solid, as always. Now our focus is on the next match against UAE. If UAE beats Singapore and we win our remaining games, we can still reach the finals. If Singapore wins, we'll play for third place," said Ali.

Attacker Hellen Sinoya praised the team's fighting spirit: "We stuck to our game plan today. We cut down on the mistakes that cost us in the matches against Singapore and Namibia. We're improving with every game. This win has given us more confidence for the matches ahead."

Kenya lost their games against Namibia and Singapore, 41-33 and 42-40, respectively.