Time for Butere Girls to show the world what they are made of

Butere Girls basketball players pose for a group photo. [Courtesy]

As the kick-off of the 2024 Kenyan Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term One games come close, defending champions Butere Girls’ basketball team is exuding confidence in their ability to retain the coveted title.

The finals are scheduled to tip off on Tuesday at Machakos Boys High School, where Butere Girls will look to replicate their success from last year.

In the 2023 finals, Butere Girls secured victory over Coastal giants Kaya Tiwi with a score of 51-41, showcasing their prowess on the court.

Head coach Chris Odeke is optimistic about his team’s prospects this year, emphasising the quality and preparation that will carry them through.

“Our preparations have been focused and intensive,” coach Odeke stated.

“We have been working on refining our strategies and ensuring our players are in peak condition for the nationals.”

The team’s recent performance at the Western Region finals further underscores their dominance. Butere Girls delivered a stunning 104-41 victory over Tigoi Girls to clinch the regional championship.

Odeke believes that such commanding wins contribute significantly to the team’s confidence and readiness for the national stage.

“Our big win at the regional finals has boosted morale and showcased our capabilities,” Odeke remarked.

“We are carrying this momentum forward into the nationals.”

In addition to their school competitions, Butere Girls’ involvement in the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Division One League has provided invaluable experience.

Odeke credits the exposure to top-tier competition for enhancing the team’s skills and mental fortitude.

“Our participation in the Division One League has toughened us up,” Odeke explained.

“The girls are accustomed to facing strong opponents, which prepares them well for challenging games at the school level.”

Drawn in Group A alongside formidable opponents such as Nairobi champions Buru Buru Girls, Nyakach Girls from Kisumu, and Mpesa Foundation, Odeke acknowledges the tough road ahead in the preliminary stage.

“The group stage will be competitive, but we are ready for the challenge,” Odeke affirmed.

 “Our focus is on taking one game at a time and executing our game plan effectively.”

Butere Girls’ ultimate ambition extends beyond the national stage to the East Africa title. Despite falling short last year with a fifth-place finish in Huye, Rwanda, Odeke is determined to lead his team to victory this time around.

“Our goal is to bring home the East Africa title,” Odeke declared.

“We have the height, skills, and determination to go all the way if we reach the national finals.”

Acknowledging the crucial role of support from the school administration, Odeke expressed gratitude to Chief Principal Jenipher Omondi and the entire school community.

“We are fortunate to have unwavering support from our school administration,” Odeke said.

“Their backing motivates us to strive for excellence and represent Butere Girls with pride.”

As Butere Girls prepares to embark on their journey to defend their title, the basketball community eagerly anticipates their performance at the KSSSA National Term One Games finals.

With Odeke’s leadership and the team’s collective determination, Butere Girls aims to leave an indelible mark on the court once again.