African Women's Basketball League Game Recap: REG vs KPA

KPA Prevails Against REG, Secures AWBL Finals Berth

The opening clash of the day unfolded in the form of the first semi-final, featuring a gripping face-off between Rwanda Energy Group (REG) and the Kenya Port Authority. This encounter, situated at the pinnacle of the AWBL's elite level, transcended the realms of a mere basketball game.

Instead, it evolved into a captivating showcase of raw technique, where both teams sought to assert their supremacy in a fierce battle for advancement. The intensity of the competition elevated the atmosphere, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown between REG and the Kenya Port Authority.

For the initial six minutes of the first quarter, KPA took the lead, but REG swiftly closed the gap, resulting in a tied game. In the final minute of the first quarter, the heightened competition ignited Victoria Reynolds, who delivered a standout performance, ultimately securing the quarter for KPA.

In a tightly contested and high-scoring first half, KPA maintained a slim lead of 29-24, with Destiny Philoxy delivering an exceptional performance, showcasing her skills as she out manoeuvred the KPA defence.

Both teams engaged in back-to-back three-point shots and showcased their skills in the paint as the first half concluded. KPA took the lead with a score of 54-47. Noteworthy statistics revealed KPA's prowess, scoring 23 points from turnovers and accumulating 28.6 bench points by halftime.

The halftime interval underscored the level of preparation that KPA had invested in for this crucial game.

Philoxy energized REG in the second half, but KPA extended their twelve-point lead with Nathalie Mangle, who, alongside Victoria Reynolds, maintained KPA's momentum. REG faced heightened pressure from Nathalie Mwangale's three-pointers, prompting the need to fortify their defense against KPA's penetrative attacks.

KPA secured a 9-point lead at the conclusion of the third quarter, maintaining control throughout the high-scoring game. Despite REG's efforts, KPA denied them any opportunity to take the lead. With three minutes remaining, REG narrowed KPA's lead to a 3-point deficit.

As the clock ticked down, KPA approached triple digits, yet Philoxy's deep three cut the lead to just two points. In the final 15 seconds, the score stood at 97-101. KPA effectively managed the last seconds, securing the victory and earning a spot in the AWBL finals.

Nathalie Mwangale notched an impressive double-double with 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 13 assists, supported by Victoria Reynolds' 26 points and 5 assists. Despite Destiny Philoxy's outstanding performance with 41 points, it proved to be a significant disappointment for Rwanda Energy Group (REG).