Ulinzi Warriors eye FIBA Zone V semis berth in Gambela City clash

Kenya’s high-flying Ulinzi Warriors will be out to seal a direct semifinal spot when they take on Ethiopia’s Gambela City in their second pool match of the ongoing Zone Five East Africa Basketball Club Championship at Nyayo Gymnasium, Nairobi.

The former Kenya National Basketball League champions head into the encounter in high spirits after a strong start to the campaign. A win on Tuesday would see them top their pool and advance straight to the semifinals.

Warriors head coach Bernard Mufutu has expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and readiness ahead of the crucial tie.

“We prepared ourselves well. We’ve watched them play; they’re a very tall team, with quite some size compared to us.

“But for us, it’s about doing the small things right: boxing out, moving the ball well, and playing our kind of basketball to get the win.

“Winning this game is crucial because it helps us top the pool and secure a semi-final slot.

“So, we’ll go all out, play solid defense, execute well on offense, and see how the game unfolds,” he said, Mufutu said.

The game tips off at 5:30 PM local time.

Ulinzi will be banking on their experience and tactical prowess to overcome the physically imposing Ethiopian side as they eye regional glory.

The soldiers tipped off their campaign on a high note after defeating the Stein Warriors of Tanzania in Game One 73-57 in a win that staked their claim for Pool B's top spot.

Meanwhile, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), which lost its opening match 83–98 to Les Hippos BBC of Burundi, will seek redemption when it battles local rivals Umoja in its second and final Pool A fixture tonight from 8 p.m. at the Nyayo Gymnasium.

Umoja, on the other hand, heads into the clash full of confidence after a commanding 89–79 win over Les Hippos in their first game.