USIU overcome Co-op Bank as Zetech beef up squad

United States International University (USIU) began their 2017 Kenya Basketball Federation women’s Premier League season hunt with a 59-51 victory over Co-operative Bank at Nyayo Stadium over the weekend.

But it was not an easy victory for George Mayienga’s side that has seen seven key players leave for other clubs.

If there is a player the university students will miss the most is Burundian import Cynthia Irankunda, who graduated last December.

Irankunda, who steered the side to a second place finish at last year’s Fiba Africa Zone V Clubs Basketball Championships in Dar es Salaam, has joined Kampala City Council.

Another key player, who bid USIU goodbye is Georgia Adhiambo. She was also instrumental in the Tanzanian championships and has joined Kenya Ports Authority.

“Dorine Nyagah has joined Co-operatibe Bank, while Sarah Chan is still injured,” Mayienga said.

“Some players like Ziporah Odhiambo, Clarice Achieng and Esther Haddassah are working out of town.”

Apart from Chan, the club has also been hit with a number of injuries that struck at the start of the season.

“Lisa Mayienga is injured and will be out for a protracted period, while Rusina Akinyi underwent a surgery and is yet to resume playing,” the coach added.

Mayienga says he has no control over players, who have left the club.

“The players are free to join any team of their choice upon graduation.” [Erick Ochieng]