Nine-time Ugandan champions, City Oilers, and their South African counterparts, Cape Town Tigers, have earned coveted berths in the 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) by triumphing in their respective semi-final matches in the East Division Elite 16.
Last Updated on
January 8, 2024
Kendi Mwiti
Staff Writer
Under the guidance of coach Mandy Juruni, the Oilers secured a 72-61 victory over Dynamo in an East African derby during the first semi-final of the East Division Elite 16, set to conclude on Sunday in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Robison Opong and Titus Odeke played pivotal roles, with Opong scoring 17 points, making 5 of 9 three-pointers, and contributing 8 rebounds and 2 assists.
A strong start for Oilers had them leading 19-05, leaving the Burundi champions with ground to make up. Despite a 19-12 response from Dynamo, the halftime score stood at 31-24. The third quarter ended in a 22-all draw, and Oilers secured the final quarter 19-15 for the overall victory.
The Tigers became the second team in the East Division Elite 16 to clinch a spot in next year's BAL after defeating Madagascar's COSPN 67-63 in a highly entertaining match.
Under the leadership of Mlungisi Ngwenya, the Tigers will be making their third consecutive appearance in the elite men's club basketball competition, now in its fourth edition.
Power forward Nkosinathi Sandile Sibanyoni, aged 25, stole the spotlight with a game-high 21 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 14 points in just over 36 minutes on the floor.
Despite COSPN's comeback attempt with quarters ending 19-18 and 19-13, Tigers held on to secure the victory.
The final showdown will feature Oilers against Tigers, while COSPN takes on Dynamo for the last ticket to BAL. The third and final slot will be determined on Sunday, 26th November, when the losing semi-finalists, Dynamo BBC of Burundi and COSPN of Madagascar, clash.
[Image/Photography Credit: FIBA]
