Patriots beat IPRC-Kigali to remain top in hoops league

Friday Espoir 129-41 30-PlusPatriots 84-67 IPRC-Kigali Sunday Rusizi vs REG 9amUGB vs CSK 1pmWomenThe Hoops Rwanda vs UR CASS 11am Basketball league reigning champions Patriots got the better of IPRC-Kigali with an 84-67 win on Friday night at Amahoro Indoor Stadium to further injected more life into their title bid. After finishing the first round having lost one game, which ironically was against the Kickukiro-based IPRC-Kigali, Patriots came into this game not only looking for revenge but also seeking to stretch the gap on top to three points. Henry Mwinuka’s side took the first quarter 20-18 before improving in the second quarter claiming it comfortably 15-7 hence going into a halftime leading 35-25. IPRC-Kigali came more rejuvenated and dominated their opponents in the third quarter, winning it 26-23; however, the youthful side lost their grasp in the final quarter and the experienced Patriots took advantage gained control of the game in the fourth quarter, 26-16. Patriots’ Elie Kaje finished with a game high 21 points and Lionel Hakizimana contributed 20 points to guide their side to a crucial victory. Dieudonne Gaston Ndizeye top scored for IPRC-Kigali with 17 points, while Fiston Irutingabo dropped 12 points. In the other game, former champions Espoir defeated lowly 30-Plus 129-41 to keep their title hopes alive. Four-time league champions Espoir dominated the Kimisagara-based side in all four straight quarters; 37-13, 35-12, 32-9, 25-7. Espoir captain Olivier Shyaka scored a game high 32 points. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Patriots beat IPRC-Kigali to remain top in hoops league