Lakers lose in Mozambique

Descent Dube, Sports Reporter
BULAWAYO-based basketball side Lakers lost all their Pool B matches at the African Club Championships that ended on Friday in Mozambique.

Lakers lost 56-86 to Nigerian side First Bank, 58-80 against Ports Authority and 56-80 versus Institut Nationale Securite Sociale (I.N.S.S).

However, towards the end of the tournament, Lakers showed some improvement despite falling 48-58 to MB2ALL and 54-65 to Eiquity Bank.

Lakers coach Sikhumbuzo Ndlovu said despite his team’s losses, the tournament went well for them and they have learnt a lot as far as preparation and the execution is concerned.

“We did all we could and we are happy with the level of competition we offered. Playing teams from other African countries that have vast experience in such competitions was an enormous experience,” said Ndlovu.

He said the club is grateful to all companies and individuals that offered them assistance in cash and in kind.

In preparation for the Maputo games, Hamara donated $2 040 for regalia, while Isilwane Tours and Mzansi offered transport for the team. Glen Lodge assisted the team with accommodation during their stay in Mozambique and individuals such as Joe Mujuru and Mxolisi Ndlovu each donated cash.

“We still appeal to the Bulawayo community to assist us cover allowances and some debts created on the run,” Ndlovu said.

He described his players as fighters and said they should have recorded at least two wins had they concentrated up to the last minute.

“As games unfolded, the team started learning and trusting each other. The truth of the matter is that we’re not far away from other African teams. We have talent, but just lack developing that talent as well as having adequate training and preparation,” said Ndlovu.

He said Lakers were the worst supported team since they are the only ones who stayed in a guest house, while other teams stayed in five star hotels.

— @DecoDecent2.