KBL 20/09/2008 – Khayalami disappoints Alumni
With four weeks remaining for the Best Four Finals, Khayalami is establishing themselves as the underdogs to become the Kovsie Basketball League champions.
Khayalami made it 2-0 against Alumni in a pulsating encounter at the University of the Free State. The win represented the growing strength of the team which shot to the number two spot after Dynasty. Moreover it indicated the foundation to build the hostel as a sanctuary for basketball in the campus of the University of the Free State. The scribes who profess will power to success are forever correct. More so when the win culminated from a concerted team effort.Despite the cold weather, Alumni began the game the game on high. Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi scored all the 8 points against 5 of the opponents in the first quarter. Tshepo Phamotse was not left behind as he made all the baskets for Alumni in the second quarter. The half time score of 13-9 to Alumni was a reflection of a chilly weather which made it less possible for effective exhibition of the sport of basketball. It was the inspiration of Papa Tau which changed the approach of Khayalami. Tau took the leadership from the fouled-out Ntlantla Mloyeni who was not impressive, scoring just one basket in the proceedings. The point guard directed his team mates to position themselves and take jumpers closer to the rim. On the other hand the inspirational Likhi who made the last 3 points on the scoresheet misinterpreted the urgency required to win the game. With 5 seconds remaining on the clock, Likhi missed a jumper instead of penetrating the defence for a lay-up and draw a foul. The score ended 27-26 to Khayalami.
Dynasty maintained their unbeaten record with a 49-45 win against Hoop Stars. The absence of Lefa Vetstock, the coach of Hoop Stars may have contributed to this particular loss. After leading all the three quarters, and starting off the last one with an upper hand, Hoop Stars completely lost the plot with the last three minutes. Instead of holding holding possession, the players were more concerned with putting in more baskets. Dynasty took advantage of this play by tightening the defence, closing the gaps for Mojalefa Lemao who became the culprit of aimless runs. Hoop Stars also exhibited the fine zone defence of Dynasty. It was organised in a way that prevented the opponents to maneuver within the three point arc. In the end the experience of Dynasty ensure their hard fought win.
Other results:
Firebirds 30 – 87 Dynasty
Hoop Stars 62 – 32 Mangaung Youth Centre
Khayalami 100 – 26 Tswelopele
Information supplied by Setlogelo Radebe
Ok ok ok ok ok! It was a dissappointing performance by Alumni. We had a bad day also 50% of the team was missing which also affected us badly. With no subs (as in the first game), they found us vulnerable.