The national Kenya men’s basketball team, the Morans, failed to secure a spot in the August 2025 AfroBasket in Angola after suffering a 57-44 defeat against Guinea in their final qualifying match in Tunisia.
This marked Kenya’s second loss in the qualifying window, having previously fallen 88-59 to Angola in their second match. The team was forced to forfeit their opening game against Tunisia due to unforeseen logistical challenges, which prevented them from securing timely flights to Tripoli, Libya, for the scheduled match on February 21, 2025.
Throughout the game, Kenya struggled to keep pace with Guinea’s sharp shooting and robust defense. Back-to-back three-pointers from Ousmane Drame and Abdoulaye Sy, along with a mid-range jumper from Sy, propelled Guinea to a 25-12 lead late in the second quarter.
However, Kenya fought back, reducing the deficit to 31-21 at halftime, thanks to a three-pointer from Albert Odero.
Kenya started the third quarter strong, hitting two quick three-pointers and a basket from Eugene Adera to close the gap to 33-29. But Drame and Shannon Evans quickly responded with deep shots, restoring Guinea’s lead to 43-33. Although Kenya edged the quarter 17-14, they still trailed 45-38 heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, Guinea tightened their defense, limiting Kenya to just six points. Drame’s two clutch three-pointers extended the lead to 51-38. Despite a scoreless final few minutes for both teams, Guinea comfortably sealed their victory at 57-44, qualifying for the tournament.
Kenya finished last in Group E with six points. Tunisia topped the standings with ten points, while Angola, already qualified as hosts, finished with eight points. Guinea secured their spot by finishing third with eight points.
“Today, two strong defensive teams faced off, and Guinea proved to be the better side. Credit to them for qualifying for the AfroBasket. Our identity is defense, and we executed well, but we struggled offensively. With a bit more energy, we could have given ourselves a chance,” said Tylor Ongwae, forward for the Kenya Morans.
Head coach Cliff Owuor added, “We went on a four-minute scoring drought in the last quarter and missed opportunities that could have changed the game. However, it has been a competitive event, and everyone has improved.”
After aiming for back-to-back appearances since their return in 2021 following a 28-year absence, Kenya will now regroup and reassess their strategy moving forward.
