In an exciting Day 2 of the inaugural East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC), Dar City secured a thrilling 69-65 victory over Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), while Burundi’s Remesha continued their impressive run with a commanding 76-55 win over their fellow countrymen, Hippos.
Dar City Outlasts KPA in a Nail-Biting Finish
Dar City, led by a standout performance from Nathaniel Brownlee, who scored 30 points, edged out KPA in a dramatic encounter that went into overtime. The game was tied at 63-63 at the end of regulation, but Brownlee kept his composure in the final moments, scoring two crucial free throws and finishing with a powerful dunk to seal the win.
The match started with Dar City taking an early 11-9 lead in the first quarter, thanks to a three-pointer by Hasheem Thabeet. However, KPA fought back, tying the game at 15-15 in the second quarter and 17-17 in the third. Despite KPA’s resilience, Dar City maintained their advantage, with Thabeet scoring key baskets, including a three-pointer that gave them a 26-19 lead at halftime.
KPA, supported by their home crowd, battled back in the second half. They fought hard, and a fast break from Brian Eleman gave KPA a narrow 40-39 lead. But Dar City held firm, and with just 8 seconds remaining in regulation, Thabeet scored another three-point play to tie the game at 54-54.
In overtime, Brownlee’s free throws and a final dunk gave Dar City the edge, as KPA struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. KPA’s Coach Cliff Owuor acknowledged his team’s efforts but lamented their inability to close out the game. “We had the chances to win, but we lacked a playmaker who could handle the pressure at the end,” he said.
KPA’s top performers included Washington Ayiecho and David Yamo, both with 13 points, while Enock Odondo added 12.
Remesha Dominates in All-Burundi Clash
In a clash between two of Burundi’s top teams, Remesha made light work of the Hippos, winning 76-55. Remesha, who had already won their opening match, took control early, ending the first quarter with a 22-16 lead. However, it was in the second quarter where they really pulled away, taking a commanding 20-point lead at halftime.
Hippos struggled to find their rhythm, particularly after their star player, Mamadou Dioume, was unable to spark a comeback. Dioume managed 19 points, but it was not enough as Remesha, who were well-prepared after a month of intensive training, dominated both offensively and defensively.
Paulin-Gauthier Jimbere, Remesha’s captain, was pleased with his team’s performance. “Every match is like a final for us,” he said. “We know each other well from our local league, and our preparation has been excellent.”
Landry Ndikumana led Remesha with 16 points, while Napoleon Abikunze contributed 14 and Guibert Nijimbere added 13. Hippos coach Arsene Mfuranzima noted that most of his players were playing together for the first time, which contributed to their lack of cohesion on the court.
As the tournament progresses, both Dar City and Remesha will be looking to continue their winning streaks, while KPA and Hippos will be hoping for better performances in their upcoming games.
Source: FIBA
