Basketball: Ojukwu lauds KPA for AWBL exploits

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) women's team made history last week, becoming the first ever Kenyan side to reach a continental club championship final. 

Facing Alexandria Sporting Club (ASC) of Egypt on their backyard, the Antony Ojukwu-coached side lost 103-59 to settle for silver, but the side's targets had already been met.

Heading to the 10-team competition, coach Ojukwu had intimated that the sole target for the team was to break the podium jinx. 

They defeated Rwanda Energy Group (REG) 101-97 to assure themselves a place in the final against the host, a win that caught many by surprise as the Rwandese side boasted two WNBA players, Tiffany Mitchell and Nia Clouden as well as the talented Destiney Promise Philoxy.

"We are gracious and humble. We play the game a certain way, win or lose. KPA ladies, as a coach you've made me humble and proud. It is important to put yourself there win or lose, to challenge yourself to be open to realising your full potential.

This year you have done just that. You have pushed your limits and regardless of the outcome you have emerged victorious. I could not be more proud of you ladies," Ojukwu wrote on his socials as he praised his charges for their exploits. 

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In addition to the historical feat that saw the side finish with a 5-2 ratio, the two losses coming off clashes with ASC, two of KPA 's players Madina Okot and Victoria Reynolds made the team of the tournament as the former also bagged the best rebounder award. 

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"Thank you for the hard work, the dedication to the goal and for the teamwork. We have made history twice. To my technical team, thank you for your support. Thank you for the roles you each played in realising this dream. We would not have achieved this if not for your hard work in preparing the team for this assignment," he continued white thanking KPA management for support. 

"Our highest gratitude is to God for His grace and favour, without it, we would not have come this far. We have truly seen his hand upon us. It has not been an easy journey but it has been worth it. To God be the glory," he concluded.