Asumbi inch closer to retaining basketball title

College basketball champions Asumbi are on the verge of winning a record ninth Kenya Teachers Colleges Sports Association men’s national title.

The Nyanza trainees put up a show befitting their champions status, thrashing hosts Kericho 91-38 in one of the semifinals yesterday. Brian Onyango and Paul Ominde starred for Asumbi, scoring 29 points each.

Asumbi coach Paul Odock said his charges are determined to maintain the status quo, hence the impressive performance.

“We came to this place as champions and we want to leave with our heads high. Defending is not easy, but we have been working very hard to ensure we achieve our purpose.

“My players have given their all to this course and I’m confident we will successfully defend our title,” Odock said.

Asumbi were undoubtedly the better side as they dominated the match with ease. They took the first quarter 14-7 before outclassing Kericho  27-4 in the second to lead 41-11 at halftime.

Asumbi were not done yet and they made light work of Kericho in the third quarter, which they won 32-15, before winning the fourth 18-12.

They will play the winner between Islamic and Machakos in today’s final.

In women’s handball, defending champions Eregi of Western oozed class as they defeated Kamwenja of Aberdare 43-6 in a lopsided semifinal to better their chances of retaining the title.

Eregi will now meet Baringo of Rift Valley, who defeated Thogoto of Nairobi 32-15, in the final today.

Meanwhile, it was yet another Eregi versus Kamwenja affair in the men’s handball battle. Eregi, who are seeking to reclaim the title they lost last year, booked a final date with hosts Kericho following their 32-27 victory. On the other hand, Kericho eliminated Meru 19-13.

Eregi got nine points from three matches to qualify for the semifinals in women’s volleyball.

Eregi were expected to face Kamagambo from Nyanza late yesterday evening.