Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the reigning Kenyan women’s basketball champions, are poised to depart today for Egypt, geared up for their debut in the inaugural Africa Women Basketball League (AWBL).

Despite their numerous appearances in the former FIBA Africa Champions Cup for Women, a podium finish has eluded them – a challenge Coach Antony Ojukwu is determined to address.

Their qualification for next week’s competition stems from a commanding performance in November’s FIBA Africa Zone 5 AWBL Qualifiers, where they asserted dominance over Rwanda Energy Group (REG) with an 87-55 triumph, clinching their 11th regional crown.

Assistant Coach Brenda Angeshi emphasized the significance of integrating the recently crowned FIBA Africa 3×3 Cup winners, now part of the KPA camp following their success in Cairo, Egypt.

Natalie Akinyi, named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) after steering the Kenyan quartet to continental glory, is set to lead KPA in the inaugural AWBL. She will be flanked by veteran Hilda Indasi and towering center player Madina Okot, aiming to guide the Kenyan champions to a podium finish.

Assistant coach Angeshi highlighted the crucial role of Akinyi’s experience and leadership as the team captain, rallying the squad for the upcoming challenge in Egypt. Alongside the trio, KPA will rely on the expertise of American shooting guard Antoinette Bannister and post player Dyana Pierre, enhancing the team’s depth for the championship.

Kenyan international Victoria Reynolds and Malian Aminata Samassekou, instrumental figures during the qualifiers, are anticipated to join the traveling team, fortifying KPA’s lineup for the AWBL debut in Egypt.