United States International University’s 2016 national women’s basketball title defence will be tricky following the imminent departure of four key players mid this year.
A concerned coach George Mayienga `isclosed there is no guarantee the quartet led by captain Georgia Merab, playmaker Cynthia Irankunda, Doreen Nyagah and Ziporah Odhiambo will continue to play for the team after they graduate in August.
The four have been important players for the USIU set up and have played key roles in the team’s success in defending their title within the region and in continental championships.
“I wanted to win this title really bad because I am aware four of my stars will graduate in August and that there is no guarantee they will be available to play for the team again after they are through with college,” said Mayienga.
The “Flames” obliterated 15 time title holders Kenya Ports Authority 74-46 in a one sided play off final Game Five match at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium on Monday night. USIU won the series 3-2.
Mayienga said he will have to inject new blood and rebuild the team around centre Sarah Chan who was named the final’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Manuela Biel, Melissa Akinyi and Angela Okoth all of who will be available.
“I have a much tougher job in the next one and a half years. To keep this team at the top, I will recruit three or four freshers this year and mould them to fill the void when the new season starts but I know it will be tough,” he noted.
Georgia led the USIU scoring tally with 22 points that included six treys, Chan bagged 16 and pulled down 21 rebounds while Irankunda posted another 15 in that demolition.
