KPA secured WBLA qualification with a dramatic bronze-match win over Les Hippos, surviving a late Burundian surge. Led by Aminata Ly’s dominant double-double and Kananu’s scoring, the hosts’ early burst and late composure proved decisive in Nairobi’s Zone Five showdown.
Last Updated on
November 16, 2025
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has secured its spot in the upcoming and highly anticipated Women's Basketball League Africa (WBLA), scheduled for next month in Cairo, following a dramatic performance in the Zone Five Qualifiers' third-place match at the Nyayo Gymnasium in Nairobi.
The hosts, under the leadership of Antony Ojukwu, showcased resilience and determination to finish third in a fiercely contested nine-team tournament won by APR at the expense of Rwanda Energy Group (REG).
After a disappointing 62-45 semis performance against REG, hosts KPA headed for the must-win bronze match, ready to fight. The Kenyan side commenced the game with an explosive 12-1 run within the first five minutes, establishing dominance early on and concluding the first quarter with a commanding 22-6 lead.
However, Les Hippos responded vigorously in the second quarter, matching the hosts play for play for a 22-all show, carrying a 16-point deficit to the halftime break.
The third quarter saw a continued fightback from the Burundian team, with an 18-15 run that kept their hopes alive. As the final quarter unfolded, Les Hippos surged ahead, with key contributions from Brittany Nichole Autry, Elsa Niyonkuru, Diedhiou Laurence Sabine, and Gisele Makenga, effectively narrowing the gap to a single point (65-64) with just minutes remaining.
The match took a dramatic turn when Ojukwu’s side fell into trouble, with star players Betty Kananu and Mercy Wanyama fouling out. Despite the setbacks, KPA held their nerve, forcing the game into overtime after a tense final period filled with missed opportunities on both sides.
In the extra period, KPA’s experience shone through. The Kenyan team dominated 14-6, securing an 89-81 victory and sealing their spot in the WBLA. The win was hard-fought and underscored the team’s resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Post-match, KPA’s assistant coach Dorcas Anyango emphasised the importance of mental toughness and tactical adjustments.
“We are fortunate to have redeemed ourselves in overtime. While we need to work on our tactical consistency, the bigger challenge is building our players’ mental resilience, especially after losing leads in recent matches,” she remarked.
Aminata Ly, the competition's top rebounder led the side's performance with a 14-point, 15-rebound double-double, Kananu emerging as the side's top scorer with 17, two more than Alima Doumbia.
KPA guard Natalie Mwangale reflected on the team’s experience and composure, highlighting how their collective experience and resolve were crucial during critical moments.
“Losing the semifinals yesterday and missing the final tour last year fueled our motivation. Our experience in the final quarter, especially after Betty and Mercy fouled out, played a significant role in our victory. Moving forward, we aim to strengthen both our offense and defense,” she said, promising a better show on the continental stage, where they return after missing out in 2024.
[Photography Courtesy of KBF]
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