Strathmore Blades reach FIBA quarters in Tanzania

Strathmore Blades shook off their woeful start to the FIBA African Zone Five Championships in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania as they routed Ethiopia’s Welkite 101-45 to secure a place in the quarters.

Blades had lost all three of their opening matches against hosts Oilers, Al-Ahly of Egypt and Patriots of Rwanda but showed no mercy on Welkite in Thursday’s do-or-die clash.

The win ensured they finished fourth to seal the last available last 8 slot and will now face red-hot Smouha of Egypt who topped A after sweeping all including champions Kenya Ports Authority.

“It feels good to play in the quarters. We are above average in both defensive and offensive and the players have shown they have the energy to fight. Hopefully we can have a good match today,” Blades head coach Tony Ochieng told Citizen Digital.

Club captain George Okoth said they are learning a lot of lessons in the championship and said he was happy with the qualification.

“I am elated because we are learning valuable lessons and we are having a taste of what professional basketball is. We are striving to give our best shot and cause serious upset in the quarters,” he said.

Holders KPA finished third in Pool A and will now face Patriots who finished second in group B.

In other quarters match-ups, Al-Ahly of Egypt will face JKT of Tanzania while hosts Oilers take on REG of Rwanda.

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