Kenyan Teams Dominate Early Stages of EABCC

Kenyan basketball clubs are making a strong bid for the 2025 East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC) trophy, with all three local representatives actively participating in the tournament's group stages at Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium in Nairobi. The competition, which commenced on Sunday, October 5, 2025, sees Kenyan sides Ulinzi Warriors, Umoja, and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) vying for regional supremacy against teams from Burundi, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.

The tournament's format has shifted from a round-robin to a group and knockout stage, with pool winners securing direct berths in the semi-finals. This intensified competition underscores the Kenyan teams' determination to clinch the trophy, which eluded them in the inaugural 2024 edition.

Strong Start for Ulinzi Warriors and Umoja

Ulinzi Warriors and Umoja Basketball Club have both registered impressive victories in their opening matches. Ulinzi Warriors, making a return to the continental stage, defeated Tanzania's Stein Warriors 73-57 in their Group B opener. Coach Bernard Mufutu emphasised teamwork as crucial for the soldiers, stating, “We will bank on teamwork because it eases the workload on individuals when each player does their bit hence reducing pressure.” Leonard Rapudo led Ulinzi's scoring with 16 points, supported by Brans Nzioka and Rigan Okere.

In Group A, Umoja secured an 89-79 win against Burundi's Les Hippos. Dismas Mbaka and Griffin Ligare were instrumental for Umoja, contributing significantly to their points tally. Umoja's shooting guard Victor Bosire highlighted the importance of the win for team confidence, especially after significant changes to their playing unit.

KPA's Campaign and Key Player Returns

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the losing finalists in the Kenyan league, are also strong contenders in Group A. KPA assistant coach Mike Opel expressed confidence in the team's ability to improve on last year's performance, with the goal of reaching the final. The team is set to benefit from the return of head coach Sammy Kiki and four key players – Martin Buluma, Lennox Wanje, Tobias Odhiambo, and Salim Kisilu – who gained international exposure at the FIBA 3x3 World Pro Challenger in Tianjin, China. Kisilu was part of the 2024 EABCC dream team.

Context of the EABCC

The East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC) was established in 2024 by FIBA Africa Zone 5 President Hesham El Hariri. Its primary aim is to provide a competitive platform for teams that do not qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) as national champions. The inaugural season, held in Nairobi in December 2024, saw Burundi's Remesha crowned champions. This year marks the second edition of the tournament.

Stakeholders and Implications

The EABCC provides crucial international exposure and development opportunities for East African basketball players and clubs. The tournament's success could further elevate the standard of basketball in the region and foster greater participation. The competitive nature of the games, as noted by Ulinzi coach Bernard Mufutu, highlights the growing talent pool within East Africa.

Evidence/Data

• Tournament Dates: October 5-10, 2025.
• Venue: Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium, Nairobi, Kenya.
• Participating Countries: Kenya, Burundi, Ethiopia, Tanzania.
• Kenyan Teams: Ulinzi Warriors, Umoja, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
• 2024 Champions: Remesha (Burundi).
• Ulinzi Warriors vs. Stein Warriors (Tanzania): 73-57 (Ulinzi win).
• Umoja vs. Les Hippos (Burundi): 89-79 (Umoja win).

What to Watch

The upcoming matches, particularly the all-Kenyan clash between Umoja and KPA, will be critical in determining semi-finalists. Ulinzi Warriors will face Ethiopia's Gambela City in their second Group B match, with a win potentially securing their top spot in the pool. The performance of key players, especially those returning with international experience, will be a significant factor in their teams' success.