KPA’s WBLA dream ends after semifinal loss to Rwanda’s REG

Coming into the match, the Dockers were hopeful of bouncing back after losing their final Pool A match to another Rwandan powerhouse, APR, on Thursday. However, REG had a different script, executing a more composed and tactical game plan that saw them eliminate the home side.

KPA, the national league champions, had a bright start, taking the first quarter 16–09, but their momentum dipped in the second quarter, which they lost 14–06 to trail 22–23 at halftime.

After the break, the Rwandan champions returned more organized and aggressive, completely dominating the third quarter 23–06.

KPA attempted to rally in the fourth quarter, which they edged 17–16, but the damage had already been done as REG sealed the win 62–45 at the buzzer.

REG’s trio of Kristina King, Kayana Traylor and Chantal Ramu Kiyobe were instrumental, combining for 39 points to steer the visitors into the final.

For KPA, foreign-based star Alima Doumbia scored a team-high 16 points, but her individual effort was not enough to rescue the Dockers from elimination.

KPA will now face Les Hippos of Burundi in the third-place playoff tomorrow, while the final will be an all-Rwanda affair, pitting APR against REG. Earlier, APR hammered Les Hippos 82–61 in the first semifinal at the same venue.