KPA runs riot as Anu Panthers extend losing streak in women KNBL

ANU started strongly, taking a 16-14 lead in the first quarter. However, KPA responded with intensity in the second quarter, outscoring their opponents 17-10 to go into halftime with a 31-26 advantage.

KPA asserted their dominance in the third quarter with a commanding 24-8 performance, extending their lead to 55-34. They maintained their momentum in the fourth and final quarter, sealing the win with a 21-11 scoreline to wrap up the match at 76-45.

KPA head coach Anthony Ojukwu acknowledged his team's slow start but was pleased with their overall performance.

"We started sluggishly and were a bit casual in the first quarter. We had some mental lapses, but I had to shout at my players and make some rotations in the second quarter. They are good players, and the results eventually showed. Playing together as a team has been key to our success," said Ojukwu.

He further emphasised the level of competition in the league, stating, "We are leading the standings, which is impressive. There are good teams in the league, and every team is trying their best."

On the other hand, ANU assistant coach Kevin Odongo lamented his team's struggles but remained optimistic about improvement.

"Our finishing has been poor, and our overall approach to the game needs improvement. However, the players were not afraid today compared to previous games. Our defenders are not that strong , and we will work on that. In the third quarter, our offensive players seemed to relax, which cost us," Odongo noted.

Despite ANU's struggles, Odongo remains hopeful for the second leg of the season.

"I know we have seven losses so far, but people should not write us off. If we make it to the playoffs, things could turn around. The second leg will be much better for us."

ANU has now gone seven games without a win, piling more pressure on the team to turn things around in their upcoming fixtures.

In other matches, Zetech Sparks maintained their unbeaten run with a hard-fought 53-48 victory over Strathmore Swords in a heated varsity derby.

Zetech, who finished third last season, continued their strong form after also defeating Equity Hawks 54-45 on Saturday. Meanwhile, Strathmore Swords suffered their second consecutive defeat after losing to KPA 59-63 the previous day.

With the league heating up, teams are gearing up for the second leg as the battle for playoff spots intensifies.