Kepler BBC secured a 60-44 victory over the Titans in their home opener, with Victor Songa’s standout performance leading the way. Songa scored 16 points, going 4-for-8 from the three-point line.
KINYINYA, February 18, Kepler took down the Titans in their first home league game of the season, earning their first win in their maiden Rwanda Basketball League.
The game started tight on both ends, but the Keplerians slowly took control of the game, dictating the tempo and closing the first quarter 22-12 courtesy to Victor Songa’s long-range shots, as he scored 10 points on 4 of 7 field-goal attempts, including 2-of-4 three-pointers.
In the second quarter, the team led by Aristide Mugabe on the court, relied on Chad Bowie’s pace to keep the lead, despite the Titans’ new power forward Bolangi Liseko exerting his toughness in the paint. They went into the break with a score of 38-29, with Kepler gaining more points from turnovers.
In this quarter, Kepler scored 18 points from turnovers, compared to the Titans’ 3.
The Titans’ frequent turnovers continue to surface in third quarter, limiting them to only 5 points. Kepler’s Mandy Juruni used the opportunity to alter the squad and rest Chad Bowie.
Heading into the final quarter with an 18-point lead (52-34), Mandy Juruni continued to evaluate his bench’s ability as the season is still fresh.
On the other hand, The Titans’ new big men Elvis Mpeti and Bolangi Liseko were pushing, fighting to close the gap, but it was too late. It ended 60-44
Aside from Victor Songa’s 16-point performance, Chad Bowie Jordan and Chandelier Cyiza Twizeyimana both contributed to the Keplerians’ overwhelming performance. Chad Bowie scored 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Twizeyimana added 10 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists.
Bienvenue Liseko Bolangi’s 14 points and 21 rebounds double-double in his debut was not enough to secure the Titans’ first victory of the season. The former BC Virunga’s physicality will be felt this season, as he grabs the rebounds at ease.
Kepler’s triumph marked the team’s first ever win in Rwanda Basketball League, as the newly promoted club suffered a devastating defeat on the league opener against the defending champions APR.
On the other side, Titans were taking the floor for the first game since they were forfeited against Orion last week for failing to complete the financial obligations.
The RBL continues next weekend, with Kepler taking on Inspired Generation and the Titans facing the Patriots.
