Espoir battle Marine in league

Basketball league Today Amahoro indoor courtsKIE v CSK – 9amEspoir v Marine 11am UNR v UGB (UNR) 1pmRusizi v APR (Rusizi) 9am The National Basketball League might only be in its infancy stage but the thrills so far point to a great season ahead. 2004 champions Espoir have already thrilled the crowds following last Saturday’s 63-61 close win over Kigali Institute of Education (KIE). However, the buzz should hit new heights this morning at Amahoro courts as they (Espoir) enter the fray against 2007 champions Marine. Marine were a center of controversy last year when they boycotted the play-off final to hand APR an effortless third title in four years. However, the side’s new coach Prospere Mihigo has insisted that the team is back to make things right. “We want to regain the title. Of course we know that it won’t come easy but we are determined to fight until the end,” Mihigo said. Marine will bank on the experienced trio of Mputu Badibanga (shooting guard), Aboubacar Barame (point guard) and Serge Kabange (center) who crossed over from APR in the off-season. The trio brings both experience and agility to the side that is dominated by youngsters. On the other hand, Espoir’s coach Arsene Mukubwa feels that his side is well-poised to give Marine a tough time. “We know it’s going to be a tough season with APR and Marine gunning for top honours. But we believe we are in it as well,” said Mukubwa. Espoir will look onto Jean Louis Habineza for inspiration. In the other top flight ties, KIE host CSK, National University of Rwanda (UNR) entertains UGB while Cliff Owuor’s indomitable lions travel to Rusizi. Ends