Equity Dumas head coach Joseph Lubarov believes his side can rise to the occasion when they face Kenya Ports Authority in the semifinals of the National Men’s Basketball Premier League. The bankers host KPA in Game One on Wednesday from 6pm at Nyayo Gymnasium, with Game Two at the same venue and time on Thursday.
The series will then shift to Mombasa, where KPA are scheduled to host Games Three, Four and Five on Saturday, Sunday and Monday respectively, if required. Lubarov says his players are energised after reaching one of their key targets for the season. "I think the guys are positive and energetic. They feel that this is exactly where they are supposed to be," he said.
The coach admits the congested schedule could affect player welfare, with all four semifinalists facing a demanding run of matches as the federation seeks to conclude the season. "I don’t think we’ve had a lot of time to prepare for the semifinals, but our practices have been positive, and I believe we are ready for the challenge that KPA presents," he said.
Lubarov also raised concerns about the quick turnaround between Nairobi and Mombasa. "It is a concern, but I hope the players get adequate rest so that we can maintain the quality of basketball we want to play," he added. "I’m excited to see how they will rise to the occasion and perform when the moment comes."
In the other semifinal series, defending champions Nairobi City Thunder face Stanbic Shields in Game One at 8pm on Wednesday, with Game Two set for Thursday at the same venue and time.
