Dom teams begin Taifa Cup on a high note

Dodoma. Imelda Hango displayed an impressive performance yesterday to lead Dodoma to a 53-33 victory over Mbeya in the ongoing National Basketball Championship (Taifa Cup).

Dodoma are the hosts of the annual championship that brings together teams from all regions of the country.

Hango had a field day after notching 27 points, recorded 10 rebounds, eight steals and five assists.

The host started the game brightly and managed to take a 15-6 lead in the first quarter before squeezing up an 8-5 win in the second quarter.

Dodoma continued to hold sway in the third quarter, in which they led 17-11, and later sealed the win with 27-11 points.

Rehema Chibonde of Mbeya was her team’s top scorer with 18 points followed by Tumwigile Shua who scored 10 points as Lucy Sango finished with nine.

Chibonde also took seven rebounds and finished with five blocks, but could not inspire her team to victory.

Despite losing the game, Mbeya, who are making their maiden appearance in the event, exhibited convincing impressive displays throughout the game.

The team’s players worked hard in all four quarters only to be let down by inexperience. In another match, Dodoma thumped Kigoma 62-66 at the same venue in the men’s category.

Key players from Dodoma were Joseph Johannes who scored 18 points and Eli Mbombo who notched 17.

Dodoma were leading by 18-12 points at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, their opponents fought hard but to no avail as the quarter ended 26-24 in favour of the hosts.

Dodoma’s all round player Johannes spearheaded most of the attacks as he was almost everywhere on the field, blocking and attempting three-pointers.

Daudi Zabron of Kigoma pressed hard to keep his side back into the game, but the tide was too high to meet desired expectations.