Espoir, Patriots eye Gisembe memorial final

Semi-finals Today Espoir vs UGB 6pmPatriots vs IPRC-Kigali 8pm Rivals Espoir and Patriots will be vying for a spot in the final when they take on their respective opponents in the semi-finals of the ongoing Gisembe basketball memorial tournament this evening at Amahoro indoor stadium. Espoir are seeking to save their campaign by winning their own tournament after being dethroned as the national league champions by Patriots, who won the league title a fortnight ago. The Nyamirambo-based side had won both league and playoffs title for the past four years in a row. Jean Bahufite’s side take on United Generation Basketball, who finished second in Group B in today’s semi-final clash. “We have to win this tournament as we also prepare for the regional edition slated for June 17-19. Our target is to win both tournaments to finish this season with some silverware,” Bahufite told Times Sport. Meanwhile, Henry Mwinuke’s Patriots will go into their semi-final clash against IPRC-Kigali in a bouyant mood after denying Espoir a record-extending fifth consecutive double. The Kagugu-based side are eyeing their first Gisembe title. The four semi-finalists have booked tickets for the forthcoming regional tournament, which will also be played at the same venue. Four clubs from neighbouring countries have also confirmed their participation—they include; PJB-Goma and Boundess Bukavu (DR Congo) in the men’s category, as well as Scandanavia basketball club and Berco Stars from Burundi (women), who will be joined by local side, APR’s and The Hoops. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Espoir, Patriots eye Gisembe memorial final