Equity Bank of Kenya's head coach David Maina is worried about the threat posed by Zetech University Sparks as the Kenya National Basketball League play-off semi-finals tip off today at Nyayo Stadium gymnasium.
This opening best-of-five game series will start at 6 pm and will precede an equally mouth-watering men's tie pitting Equity Bank Dumas against Ulinzi Warriors.
Equity Bank will rely on the exploits and speed of national team captain Melissa Akinyi, Shilalei Shani, and the sharp-shooting Betty Kananu.
"Zetech pose a threat but we are ready for the challenge. The two teams split the regular season games one apiece and it means we have to go all out and take one game at a time," said Maina.
"We have to be sharp and make good decisions. Our focus throughout the game is also key. Every player who gets a chance must give their best," he added.
They will find it a handful against a deadly frontcourt quartet of Medina Okot, Christine Akinyi, Vallary Kemunto and Chantal Kiyobe.
Warriors lost both legs to Dumas but coach Ben Mafutu hopes his young soldiers will remain focused throughout the series. Team leader Eric Mutoro and Tiberius Menya will have to show young Churchill Odhiambo, Elisha Odhiambo and the way.
His counterpart Carey Oketch said his boys, led by a backcourt of Victor Ochieng and Victor Bosire have prepared the best for the contest. "We have never won a championship. Ulinzi have. We do not have any advantage in this series, so it will be a dogfight and we are ready," offered Oketch.
The matches continue this weekend at the same venue as Game Two games. Games Three and Four have been planned for next week.
Women's champions Kenya Ports Authority will be in action against Strathmore University Swords in matches they are tipped to win.
The KPA men's side on the other hand have a date against Thunder. The two teams travel to Mombasa next weekend for the rest of the series.
