Basketball: UON Dynamites explode into KBF semis play-offs

University Of Nairobi's Dynamites Triza Akeyo (left) challenges Grace Wanjiru of Storms during basketball premier league at Nyayo Gynasium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

University of Nairobi (UON) Dynamites were the first side to seal their place in the semi-finals of the 2019 Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) women’s Premier League. 

Dynamites yesterday beat Zetech University Sparks 49-47 in game two of the quarter-final play-offs to cruise to the last four with a 2-0 victory at Nyayo Gymnasium.

Strathmore University Swords were, however, unlucky as Storms levelled the score 1-1 to take the game to the wire after winning game two 70-54.

Trizah Akeyo starred for Dynamites over the weekend leading her side to double victory and a semis slot.

Akeyo led with 15 points while Valerie Kemunto and Faith Atieno sunk 10 each for Dynamites whereas Jackline Kogo and Naomi Bosibori scored 10 and nine for Zetech respectively.

UON coach Kent Juma said their aim was to win the first two games.

“We have achieved our first target because we wanted to have adequate time for the players to write their exams as well as prepare for the semis. The girls have done well so far and I believe they will give a good fight in the semi-final,” Kent said. 

Having set one foot into the last four with a 46-41 win on Saturday, Dynamite, who were promoted to the top tier, carried their fighting spirit into game two taking a 15-11 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was balanced even as Zetech fought to narrow Dynamites score. However, Akeyo ensured her side maintained their two baskets lead with the score at 23-19 at the breather.

Sparks were more rejuvenated taking the third and fourth quarters 15-14 and 13-12 but their efforts were not good enough to set a date for game three as Dynamites forced their way into the last four with a one-basket victory. 

Linet Atieno was on fire as Storms bounced back from game one defeat to Strathmore University Swords to level matters 1-1 and set the stage for a decisive game three.

Linet sunk 27 points for Storms in their 70-54 victory.