Former Warriors Duo, Mike Buzangu and Saidi Amisi Carmelo Shine At BKBNL On Match Day1 Closing tournament.
This was the first competitive sports activity in the country after a ban on sports was lifted recently. The Bank of Kigali Basketball National League BKBNL resumed today Sunday, October 18, 2020, and will be concluded in a tournament format.
RP-IPRC Kigali and RP-IPRC Musanze both polytechnic institutions contended in the opening match of the tournament. The side from Musanze, which is dominated by young players led by Coach Rene SAHABU, are debutants in the BKBNL. The fact that they made 7th place in the regular season is quite a performance. Against the very best that Rwanda has to offer, it would be a dream to think that they would make it to the semi-finals.
On the opposite, Kigali side coached by John BAHUFITE, plays experienced players and is with no doubt favourites for top-four title contenders this season. It was never going to be a walk in the park for the Musanze based team, RP-IPRC Kigali not only won the match but also made double their opponent’s score. In the match, former Warriors duo Mike Buzangu and Saidi Amisi Carmelo were key to bringing the win home. Mike put 26 in the basket, 4 rebounds and 6 assists while comrade Saidi made 23 baskets, 8 rebounds and 2 assist.
There was another ace performance from RP-IPRC Kigali Centre, Ndoli Jean Paul. He made very high defensive stats and thanks to his 2.07m height, he made 20 rebounds and 2 blocks.
Due to the guidelines meant to be followed, games were played totally behind closed doors but here is a post-match remark from both teams’ coaches.
Rene SAHABU
“It was a difficult game. We lost but we have learnt so many lessons. It is evident that our opponents were stronger and better. We shall use this as a building block for our next games.”
John BAHUFITE
“It was not an easy match because we have not played a competitive game in almost eight months but my players played well. This win gives us morale and we have also seen our level at the moment.”
