Battle lines drawn as Patriots, IPRC-South clash in Game 3

Today Men’s finals, Game 3 Patriots vs IPRC- South 8pm The battle for the men’s basketball playoffs title has reached a crucial stage as Patriots and IPRC-South lock horns in Game 3 of the best-of-five finals series this evening at Amahoro indoor stadium—the game starts at 8pm. The game is a clash of the two best sides in the league this season, and will determine, the likely side to dethrone Espoir, which has won the title for the last four consecutive years. After winning the first Game 71-65 last Sunday before suffering a narrow 66-63 defeat in Game 2 on Monday evening, Patriots will go into Game 3 seeking to win and turn the series in their favour, according to head coach Henry Mwinuke. “Game 2 on Monday taught us a big lesson, therefore we want to use that defeat as motivation to win on Friday, which would boost our chances,” the Tanzania-born trainer told Times Sport. On the other side, the Huye-based IPRC-South, too, are optimistic on maintaining the momentum and go on to win the tournament. The newly appointed IPRC-South interim coach Charles Mushumba says, “The playoffs are our only chance of winning a major trophy this season. Everyone on the team is ready not only for Game 3 but the rest of the series.” Game 3 will be preceded by a friendly match between Moise Mutokambali’s U18 Team and a select side of Rwandans from the Diaspora (United States). editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Battle lines drawn as Patriots, IPRC-South clash in Game 3