Today at YMCA
M: Power v Rhino (8pm)
W: Gladiators v Amazon (6pm)
It has almost become a habit in the recent past that most teams promoted to the MTN-Fuba League Division One get relegated at the first opportunity.
That clearly underlines a gap between the top and the other divisions. Upon their return after a four-year absence, Charging Rhinos vowed to correct that.
A nervy 68-66 tip-off victory over Nkumba Marines gave them belief but they will need a lot more than faith against DMark Power at YMCA court today.
While the former champions were away, Power won two of the last three titles and are among the frontrunners for this one. “Many people say there isn’t good basketball in division two but we can change that perception if we play well,” Rhinos skipper Mark Opio said.
The shooting guard, too, knows that responsibility lies squarely on his shoulders and might need more than the 21 points he scored against Marines.
Ten-point barrier
None of Opio’s teammates breached the 10-point barrier as his side-kick Walter Omony laboured through an injury for his seven points and seven boards.
Power’s championship defence started well with a 96-91 result over Miracle Eagles.
Today provides a chance for coach Bernice Ankunda to exploit the abilities of his roster.
Understudy point guard Emmanuel Enabu, also rookie of the year, is one of those who should pile up minutes along with forward Michael Kojo and centre Robert Wanitho.
On the other hand, Isaac Afidra needs to continue his return to offensive form having regained near-full fitness.