Kabarak beats JKUAT in heated match, as players highlight impact of Nakuball

Kabarak and the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) women’s squad reignited their rivalry in a thrilling match that had the crowd captivated and eager for more.

Kabarak came out strong, taking control early with a series of well-executed plays in the first quarter, winning it 7-5. But in the second quarter, JKUAT had different plans.

Their defence tightened up, shutting down Kabarak completely, preventing them from scoring a single point, while JKUAT managed to put up five points of their own.

Everything was still on the line going into the third quarter. Martha Ondieki of Kabarak came out blazing, sinking a series of three-pointers that stretched the gap between the two teams.

In the fourth quarter, Kabarak returned the favour, tightening their defence and not allowing JKUAT to break through. JKUAT failed to score any baskets as Kabarak pulled away with eight points.

The final score was 25-17 in favour of Kabarak.

During a recent interview, David Kamau, head coach of the Nakuru County women's team, credited the team’s strong performance to the tough competition found in the county’s grassroots leagues.

“The Nakuru Universities and Colleges League (NAKUBALL) has produced some of the best players who have gone on to represent the county on the national stage, such as at the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) games, where they’ve posted impressive results for two years running,” he explained.

Merrie Moraa, a JKUAT player who rose through the ranks, shared how playing in the grassroots league helped her reach the next level — now she plays for the Cabalets, a team in the Kenya Basketball Federation.

“The exposure I gained from competing in NAKUBALL really helped me improve my game. Eventually, I was selected to play in the 2024 KYISA games, where I was scouted and now, I’m part of the Cabalets team in the KBF league,” she says.

“Playing at this level is a whole different ball game by itself and the competition is very stiff. It is all about putting in the work and ensuring you bring your A game every day, all day” she says.

She also emphasizes the importance of investing in grassroots leagues, describing them as essential breeding grounds for future stars.

“There is an incredible wealth of talent in our neighbourhoods and estates just waiting to be uncovered. It is through these grassroots leagues that we can offer young people a platform to showcase their skills and also elevate themselves to greater heights” she concludes.  

In other results, the Samburu Mambas defeated Mount Kenya University 53-34, JKUAT men beat Dykaan 44-24, and LA Nets triumphed over Kenyatta University (KU) 38-19.