Uhuru Lauds Kenyan Team for Making History

A file image of the Kenya men's national basketball team, 'Morans'
A file image of the Kenya men's national basketball team, 'Morans'
Twitter

President Uhuru Kenyatta has congratulated the men's national basketball team following their impeccable performance during the 2021 FIBA AfroBasket tournament.

The basketball team made history after stunning heavyweights Angola to clinch a slot in the AfroBasket tournament for the first time in 28 years.

Kenyans were in a frenzy following the buzzer after the thrilling contest that was capped off with a remarkable finish by Moran's captain, Tyler Ongwae.

The captain, in the dying five seconds of the fourth quarter, conjured a body feint, the path cleared and he hammered home a last gasp shot which sealed the team's fate into the record books. The game ended 74-73.

Moran's captain Tyler Ongwae during a past game.
Moran's captain Tyler Ongwae during a past game.
File

Deputy President William Ruto also took to social media to laud the team for their stunning effort.

"We salute the Morans and its coaching staff for the convincing win against the 11-time African victors, Angola. With dedication, team spirit and expert guidance, we will carry the day in the FIBA AfroBasket 2021 finals in Kigali. Hongera," Ruto stated.

His sentiments were echoed by Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka who praised the team for etching their names in history.

"Congratulations Kenya Morans for beating Angola 74-73 and qualifying for the FIBA Afrobasket tournament for the first time in 28 years . This is a massive win and a great moment in our basketball sports history," Musyoka stated.

At the center of attention was coach Liz Mills from Australia, whose prowess in leading the team to victory was praised. This was the first test for the coach who became the new head coach only two days before.

After the nail-biting contest, she became the first female coach to lead Morans to the tournament, a spot that had eluded the team for close to three decades.

Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) chairman Paul Otula also thanked the government for the vital support that saw the team sail through to achieve the latest historic feat.

"Kenya Morans have beaten Angola for the first time in the history of Basketball in Africa. Thanks a lot to the Government of Kenya for the support,” he stated.

Coach Liz Mills celebrating with the Morans after they qualify for the FIBA AfroBasket 2021 tournament in Rwanda.
Coach Liz Mills celebrating with the Morans after they qualify for the FIBA AfroBasket 2021 tournament in Rwanda.
File

 

 

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