KNBL: USIU Tigers to take survival bid to the wire

Despite the USIU Tigers' double win over the weekend, their fight to stay in the Kenya National Men’s Basketball Premier League (KNBL) is still in a precarious position, as their chances of staying up remain slim.

Even after an impressive debut season, the students serving their second stint in the top tier have struggled this term.

Tiger registered a double victory over the weekend, defeating Umoja 53-41 and hammering NBK Phoenix 62-46.

George Mayienga, head coach of the USIU ladies' team, who also took charge of the men’s team over the weekend, applauded the boys for rekindling their survival hopes.

"First, I want to thank the boys for working so hard throughout the week.

“They knew we had two crucial games that would determine whether we’d stay in the league or drop out, and they gave it their all.

“I am proud of the way they played hard defense, fought for every possession, and played for one another.

“Of course, there are still areas we need to improve on, and we’re managing a few injuries, but overall I’m happy with the team’s effort and commitment," Mayienga said.

Mayienga has now shifted focus to their last game of the season, next weekend, against Eldonets Platinum, with a win enough to retain their top-flight status.

"We’re heading to Eldoret this weekend, and we know it’s no joke. Playing away is always tough, and this one will test our focus and determination.

“We can’t afford to be distracted or off our game — we have to stay grounded and give it our all. The team is ready, and we’re going there to compete and bring back a positive result," Mayienga added.

Tigers are among the teams rocked at the very bottom of the KNBL standings with only six wins from 21 matches.

Other teams fighting relegation are newbies NBK Phoenix, UON Terror, and ANU Wolfpacks.

The students must win both remaining fixtures and hope NBK Phoenix, UoN Terror, or ANU Wolfpacks lose one or more of their final games as two of them are guaranteed of facing the axe.

While the double victory over the weekend (Saturday & Sunday) gave fans hope, mathematically—and given the form of their rivals—USIU Tigers remain in deep relegation jeopardy.

Unless several more surprising losses occur across the survival pack, their KNBL status entering next season is very much up in the air.

Weekend Results

The Swish 00-20 USIU Flames-WP-Walkover

Strathmore Swords 27-37 Equity Hawks-WP

Umoja 41-53 USIU Tigers-MP

USIU Flames 49-50 Strathmore Swords-WP

USIU Tigers 62-46 NBK Phoenix-MP