Quality Basketball have booked their place in the finals of this year’s Khomas Basketball Association (KBA) league after edging Afro-Stars in a thrilling play-off series.

In a best-of-seven showdown, Quality outclassed log leaders Afro-Stars 4-2 to confirm their spot in the much-anticipated finals. They will now face either defending champions Unam Rebels or Unam Wolves, who were locked in their final play-off tie late yesterday.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Quality Basketball player Samuel Waendama, said it had been one of the toughest seasons, but their resilience had paid off. “I would say it was one of the most challenging seasons for us. The competition was tough, and we had to work twice as hard to make the finals. As a team, we played collectively and got the job done, which was always the target,” Waendama said.

Looking ahead to the final, Waendama insisted that Quality will be ready for any opponent.

“Any team that reaches the final will be tough, but for us it’s about preparation and focus. This is a fight we don’t want to lose, and we will give it our all to win the title this year. We have proved how strong we are as a unit and how much we can achieve if we keep our standards high,” he added.

Meanwhile, Unam Rebels, the reigning champions have endured a rocky season, while Unam Wolves have grown stronger as the play-offs progressed. KBA marketing manager John Tjirimuje described this year’s competition as one of the most unpredictable in recent history.

“The level of competition has been intense. Teams have really raised their game in both the league and the play-offs. Quality’s run to the final has been a surprise to many, as not many expected them to beat Afro-Stars. On the other hand, Wolves have shown great resilience. They lost their opening two matches but bounced back strongly against the defending champions, Rebels,” Tjirimuje said.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na