Defending champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have outclassed their local rivals Equity Hawks, clinching an 80-63 victory to advance to the semi-finals of the Africa Zone Five Women’s Basketball Championship in Zanzibar.

Nigerian import Nkem Akarainwe shone brightly for KPA, delivering a double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds. KPA’s dominance was evident as they secured revenge against Equity, who had narrowly beaten them to last season’s national title.

The dockers showcased depth, with five players reaching double-digit points: Selina Okumu led with a game-high 17, Grace Malu added 15, team captain Natalie Akinyi chipped in 12, while Malian Alima Doumbia scored 10.

KPA’s commanding performance sends a clear message, especially after a tough loss to Rwanda’s APR in the group stages. Equity, meanwhile, struggled to find their rhythm, with Maryanne Nyagaki and Cameroonian point guard Michelle Sokoudjou each scoring 11 points to lead the team.

Equity now moves to the fifth-to-eighth place classification match against local side Vijana Queens, while KPA edges closer to the Africa Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) qualification, with a semi-final clash against Egypt’s Al Ahly.

A semi-final victory would secure KPA a spot in the continental tournament, where they reached the final last season.