Blow for KPA basketball as key player suspended
Kenya Ports Authority’s Dickson Aran has been suspended by the Kenya Basketball Federation pending a verdict from the disciplinary committee.
He is under investigation for allegedly assaulting Evans Nathan Mathangani during the final of the Labour Day Tournament where KPA lost to Strathmore 36-42. The tournament was held at Menengai High School.
Investigation
“We have handed over the case to the disciplinary committee, and they will review the reports, statements and conduct more investigations if need be. They will give the verdict, but until they do, the player is suspended and cannot represent his club in any games sanctioned by us,” said secretary general said Vitalis Gode.
According to Mathangani’s report, Aran allegedly slapped him during a scuffle that ensued when players from both camps confronted the referee to get clarity on a call he had made in favour of Strathmore.
KPA team manager Chris Ogutu said that they are yet to receive the communication on the suspension and could not comment.
“We have not got the letter yet, so we will just have to wait and see what happens,” said Ogutu.
The club, however, sent their statement to KBF last week saying Aran had not assaulted anyone. Should he be found guilty, Aran could face a maximum one year ban and Sh10,000 fine.
KPA will have to find a replacement as they head into a busy weekend. They have a match against struggling Lions and on Sunday they take on USIU Tigers at 4pm.