The second round of the Nakuru Universities Colleges League playoffs games were played yesterday at the Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology (RVIST).

In the first game, Kabarak Royals and Nakuru Teachers Training College (NTTC) went head-to-head in a cut throat match.

Victor Ochieng’ alias Omwami from NTTC owned the fourth quarter, scoring basket after basket. This saw his team through to game three of the play off. The game ended 50- 52 in favour of NTTC.

Kibet Titus from Kenyatta University (left) goes head to head with Delvin Kiromo from Egerton University during the playoff games at RVIST on October 21, 2023.

Read: Basketball rivals JKUAT and RVIST meet again at Nakuru universities and colleges league

Speaking to Mtaa Wangu after the game, Ochieng’ said they had a change of mentality when coming into this game

“In last week’s game, Kabarak beat us and we accepted but we went back to the drawing board and strategized, worked on our weaknesses and came back stronger. We now look forward to the next round and hope we emerge winners,” he noted.

The Kabarak team coach David Mwangi alias Deu said they were hopeful of winning today’s match, considering they had won the first round, but instead they were completely ambushed by the NTTC team.

“Considering the next round will be played at our home grounds it will be a must win for us and nothing less,’’ he said.

The main event was between JKUAT Nakuru and the hosts RVIST.

As expected, the game did not disappoint as RVIST from the onset proved that they did not come to play.

RVIST drew first blood by scoring a two pointer. The team further executed some very well coordinated fast breaks between Abednego Ndege and Tony Martin resulting to the first quarter ending in favour of RVIST, 12- 09.

Klinnsman Orina from JKUAT dribbling past an RVIST player during the playoff games at RVIST on October 21, 2023.

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/MTAA WANGU

Also Read: RVIST dominate Kabarak in weekend's basketball game

In the second quarter, JKUAT came back with a level head and managed to stage a comeback with baskets from Aleer Francis, Victor Odero and Humphrey Ogutu.

The third quarter was very tight with the teams finishing at 11 ups.

In the fourth quarter, the home advantage came into play as RVIST fans showed their full support for their team. This motivation seemingly worked as RVIST beat JKUAT 12-05, eventually ending the game at 49-43 in favour of RVIST.

The other game played was between Egerton University and Kenyatta University. These two teams played their two play-off matches.

The first game was won by Egerton and in the afternoon, in a dramatic turn of events, Kenyatta University managed to keep their playoff hopes alive by defeating Egerton.

Lisa Obita from Egerton university squaring up to take a two point shot during the playoff games at RVIST on October 21, 2023.

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/MTAA WANGU

In the women's category, NK Panthers played against Egerton Lady assassins. Panthers won the game. Kabarak ladies team will be playing their two matches next weekend against RVIST.

Related: Why Basketball remains a neglected sport in Nakuru

With every team bringing their A game, the last round of the playoffs that will be played at Kabarak University next weekend promises to be electric.

sanyabret@gmail.com

RVIST sends JKUAT back to the drawing board in second round of basketball playoffs

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Bret Sanya