NAIROBI City Thunder have become domestic titans since the Twende ownership group took over the club. For the last two years, they have dominated the Kenyan basketball scene, and did so in spectacular fashion. One unbeaten season after another is shaping this ball club into a dynasty. The man who has crafted the Thunder’s invincibility on the court is Bradley Ibs.
With another season coming up, there will be new pressure. There will probably be talk of a dynasty and possibly maintaining the aura of invincibility. It’s something Ibs dismisses from his train of thought, and it has not crept into the team’s psyche.
“I think it’s something that gets discussed more outside our locker room than internally. I know that as a coaching staff, we spend zero time talking about it,” said Ibs. “It certainly doesn’t mean we don’t want to win. We are extremely competitive. I think our way of operation is ‘what can we do today, what can we do this week to get a little bit better?'”
Ibs continued: “We like to trust the fact that we have talented players in our locker room. I think if we stay on the cutting edge of improvement and keep the team motivated, then we can trust the results.”
Brad Ibs and the Thunder want to redeem themselves in BAL Season 6. Pictures: FIBA
While the Thunder ran rampant in the league again last year, Ibs says there were some nervous moments. “We had some scares last year… Some close games, I think one or two games might have gone into overtime,” said Ibs. “If we go undefeated again this season, then it will be great. I think ultimately we want to improve playing our best basketball until the end of the season and taking Nairobi City Thunder to another national championship.”
Ibs and the Thunder are also making a return to the BAL, after triumphing yet again at home at the Elite 16 stage of the continental qualifiers.
Having finished last year’s BAL Season 5 with a 1-5 record in the Nile Conference, Ibs will hope for a turnaround fortune this year.
He spoke about the lessons he learnt from their debut tournament and where he hopes the Thunder will finish this year.
“I think one of the lessons I learnt from the BAL last year is the importance of proper roster construction. There is a real sensitive balance when you build a roster for these types of tournaments,” said Ibs. “You need to maintain the core of who you are as much as you can, and also, there is a need for the high-level temporary players. Those are the plugin players because the time level is short to prepare them and get them on the same page.”
Brad Ibs is aiming for balance within his Thunder team at this year’s BAL.
He finally spoke on the goal for this year’s BAL, and he intimated that going beyond the group stage would be a starting point.
“I think at a baseline level, we definitely want to make it out of conference play this year. We are also really hopeful that we will compete at a high level once we get into the final round in Rwanda,” said Ibs. “It was unfortunate how we played and how we represented ourselves last year. I don’t know how many teams in their first year of existence make it to the BAL… Win a game in the BAL. There were a lot of difficult lessons to learn, and I think we have learnt them.
“We look forward making some changes based on that knowledge that we got.”
Ibs and Thunder are in their preseason, and so far, they have hit the right notes with wins over a South Sudan select team and the army club, Ulinzi. With the rigours of domestic and international competition set to begin, Ibs will hope his band of Thunder players stay in tune and don’t miss a beat.
HE is nicknamed Kenya Airways. A moniker he earned for his spectacular high-flying dunks, which have wowed fans at various gyms in the East African nation. His actual name is Albert Odero, and he is part of a group of star players who make up Kenya’s super team, Nairobi City Thunder.
The 28-year-old Odero was nicknamed by his teammate Faheem Juma, who compared his high-flying style on the court to the nation’s air carrier.
While being a skywalker has made Odero popular, he feels there is more to his game. “One of my teammates, Faheem, gave me the name four or five years ago, and it just stuck. I feel like I do more than jump high and dunk on people. It’s a blessing to have the athleticism, and if it entertains people, then I don’t mind putting on a show for the crowd,” said Odero.
Ken Wachira and Albert Odero celebrate qualifying for the BAL last year. Pictures: FIBA Africa
The Thunder fans are certainly loving it! They have seen Odero and the Thunder rocket to the stratosphere after being crowned champions in Kenya’s Basketball League for the second time running. The Thunder outdid themselves once more, ending their spectacular charge to the title with another unbeaten run.
Odero, speaking to The Big Tip Off on Monday, a day after they beat Kenya Ports Authority 3-0 in the finals series, attributed the success to a positive team dynamic.
“It’s consistency. We have guys who work hard, well together and who want what’s best for the team, said Odero. “So in those two years, we have become familiar. It’s a whole lot of things put in a pot, and it’s working,” said Odero.
Having one unbeaten season is no easy feat, but to do it a second time, while astounding for the Thunder, it would raise questions about the quality of the teams they faced in the domestic league.
Odero, on the other hand, took a different view. “I would not say it was easy. You still have to come in and prove yourself. These teams are not going to let you come in and walk all over them,” said Odero. “It was not easy. We put in the hard work. We know how much investment the owners put into the team, so that is what they expect.”
Winning the league again means another Road to BAL, where they could potentially qualify for the BAL, as was the case last year.
In the Road to BAL stage, the Thunder posted an impressive 8-1 record. In the Elite 16 final phase on home soil, they delivered inspiring performances that made them the first Kenyan team to qualify for the BAL.
Odero says knowing the terrain of the continental qualifiers is an advantage for the Thunder. “We have one year under our belt… So we will be more comfortable. The other teams, too, have been there before, so they will invest. It’s just coming there with a chip on our shoulder. We know it’s not going to be easy, we know what it takes,” said Odero.
Albert Odero understands this year’s Road to BAL will be more challenging.
The experience at this year’s BAL was a step in the growth of the Thunder and their players. However, their record, 1-5 in the BAL’s Nile Conference, shows the Thunder are a work in progress.
“It was a good learning experience for the management and the players. This year, if we get the opportunity again we should not repeat the mistakes of last year,” said Odero.
His words carry wisdom from lessons learnt, and confidence in what the future holds. As the Thunder return to the continental realm, there will be turbulence and, at times, smooth sailing. So if the Thunder are to remain in flight on the Road to BAL, it will require Odero and his teammates to maintain level-heads.
THE opening round of the BAL Nile Conference has provided a fascinating glimpse into the strengths, challenges, and potential of the four competing teams: Al Ahli Tripoli, APR, Made By Basketball (MBB), and Nairobi City Thunder. Each team’s performance has reflected distinct narratives shaped by leadership, injuries, and moments of brilliance, all setting the stage for an intense race toward the playoffs.
Al Ahli Tripoli: Leadership Shining Through Jean Jacques Boissy’s Impact
Al Ahli Tripoli stands out as the dominant force after being unbeaten in their first three games. Much of their success is anchored by the remarkable leadership of Jean-Jacques Boissy, who has consistently come off the bench to make a huge impact. Their system appears finely tuned, allowing multiple players to contribute in varying but complementary ways.
“Jean, although he is the youngest foreigner in our team, he has great leadership and charisma. We are lucky to have him, and from day one, he sent a clear message: he’s the leader,” said Al Ahli coach Fouad Abouh Chacra. “He’s reading the game, making his teammates look good, and he’s a great defender. Thank God, we have Jean-Jacques, and we will protect him and keep him with us because he fits in from day one. It feels like he has been with the team for ten years.”
Boissy is in scintillating form for the Libyan club, delivering standout performances with 28 points against MBB, 30 points versus Nairobi City Thunder, and 25 points against APR.
Jean Jacques Boissy is thriving in the colours of Al Ahli Tripoli at the Nile Conference. Pictures: The BAL
Beyond Boissy, the team thrives in its system, with multiple players stepping up in different ways to help Al Ahli maintain aggressive play and solid teamwork – a formula that’s proving nearly unstoppable.
APR already missing the impact of Diarra in the Nile Conference
APR enters the second round with a solid 2-1 record, having been edged only by Al Ahli Tripoli. Central to APR’s success is Aliou Diarra, whose physical presence has been a game-changer. However, Diarra is sidelined by injury, and his return timeline is uncertain, with his status considered day-to-day. APR coach James Maye Jr was candid about the need for collective effort following the Malian forward’s absence.
“Of course, Aliou definitely would have been a help. But I think our team is deep enough. We just needed more of a team effort, and we failed at that tonight,” said Maye Jr.
Maye Jr pinpointed key factors in their loss to Al Ahli Tripoli. “They got the ball on the rim 17 more times than we did. We turned the ball over 21 times… They were just the aggressors,” said the American coach.
He underscored APR’s struggles with 21 turnovers and Al Ahli’s dominance on the offensive glass with 23 offensive rebounds, a sign of how discipline and execution will be crucial if APR hopes to contend as they move forward without their dominant big man.
Aliou Diarra has been a cornerstone for APR, and his absence due to injury was felt in the game against Al Ahli.
Prinsloo and Leanard Jr give Vincent some nostalgic moments
MBB is still searching for consistency, posting a 1-2 record after losses to Al Ahli Tripoli and APR. However, Pieter Prinsloo’s performances offer a glimmer of hope, as he has emerged as a pivotal figure in MBB’s push for a playoff spot on home soil.
Coach Sam Vincent’s reflections reveal growing optimism. “I have to give the guys a lot of credit. We could’ve hung our heads, trailing the game the way we did and just given up. Instead we showed a lot of fight and determination,” said Vincent. “We made some slight adjustments to the lineup, and those brought more energy, tougher defence, and allowed us to push the ball up the court.”
The MBB coach also singled out Prinsloo’s game as a highlight. “Honestly, there were moments that gave me real NBA flashbacks. Prinsloo today reminded me of Larry Bird – no disrespect to Larry – but the step-back threes and low-post moves were sensational. And Teafale (Leanard Jr), with a couple of monstrous dunks, reminded me of Scottie Pippen,” said Vincent.
Defensive improvements have also been key, with players like Lebesa Selepe stepping up to take on tough defensive assignments, allowing more offensive freedom for others.
“A couple of things stood out. Selepe came in and did a great job defensively against (Evans) Ganapamo, which gave us a huge boost. At one point, TL (Teafale) wanted to guard their number one, but we needed him on offence. So we let Selepe take on that role, and he did a great job.”
Teafal Lenard has been a star for MBB in the Nile Conference.
With better chemistry and a clearer understanding of rotations, MBB is building a foundation for the remaining three games.
Nairobi City Thunder: Unlocked Potential Amidst Challenges
Nairobi City Thunder has had a tough start to the season with a 0-3 record, but there are clear signs of promise. Their potential was highlighted against MBB, where they built an 18-point lead, and Evans Ganapamo delivered standout performances throughout.
Thunder coach Bradley Ibs reflected on the team’s struggles and moments of brilliance. “After we got the big lead in the third quarter, we got out of character. Defensively, we stopped playing according to our principles – lots of reaching, silly fouls, and missed boxouts on free throws. These lapses swung the momentum,” said Ibs
“We were great at getting into the paint in the first half, but in the second, we settled for too many perimeter shots. That wasn’t the plan – it just happened under pressure.”
Despite the losses, Ibs was encouraged by his performance and the team’s energy and cohesion improvements.
“I didn’t play any differently than in the last games; today, the shots just went in. This was a crucial game for us,” said Ibs. “We played with more energy and better cohesion today. We need to keep that same energy and clean up our mistakes moving forward.”
The key question remains: Can Nairobi City Thunder harness their potential quickly enough to reverse their fortunes and earn a playoff spot?
Evans Ganapamo found his scoring rhythm against MBB on Tuesday night.
Conclusion
Each team now faces the challenge of building on its performance while addressing its weaknesses. With the playoffs looming, the race to secure the coveted three-playoff spots promises to be a thrilling battle filled with leadership moments, strategic adjustments, and individual brilliance.
DERRICK Ogechi has experienced the upsides and downsides of basketball on the continent. Late last year, he and his Nairobi City Thunder teammates were celebrated like kings for scaling new heights in Kenya’s basketball. Sadly, the table turned when he donned the national team jersey. He and the Morans experienced a baptism of fire in the recent AfroBasket qualifiers.
Last month, to be exact, Ogechi and the Morans experienced an abysmal final window of the 2025 AfroBasket qualifying campaign, losing all their matches, one by forfeit due to their late arrival in Libya. Their 0-3 run in North Africa meant they could not match the qualification feats of 2021. Following the disappointment with the Morans, Ogechi’s attention is now on the Basketball Africa League (BAL), a tournament he helped the Thunder qualify for last year on home soil. The BAL qualification was a historic first for a club from the East African nation.
The former Midwestern State University Mustangs player told The Big Tip Off he and his Thunder teammates, who made up the bulk of the Morans team, will use the BAL to avenge the misery of the AfroBasket qualifiers.
“How we finished was disappointing. I think it was a wake-up call for us. [The] opportunity to play in the AfroBasket qualifiers [was incredible]. Experiencing the physicality and everything [invigorates]. When we lost, we took it personally. We are regrouping and getting ready for the next continental stage,” said Ogechi. “So Thunder are preparing to show Kenya our ability… I don’t think we played to the best of our ability in the AfroBasket qualifiers.”
Derrick Ogechi feels the Morans did not bring the best version of themselves to the AfroBasket qualifiers. Pictures: FIBA
Small forward Ogechi, who joined the Thunder in their successful Road to BAL adventure last year, was always confident when he moved to the club that they would make it as far as they have.
“Seeing that the Thunder finished as league champions, I knew they were poised to make a good run at the Road to BAL. They knew, and I knew,” said 26-year-old Ogechi. “I met with the management, and at the end of the discussion, they felt I would be a good piece. I wanted to be part of history – part of the first team from Kenya to make it to the BAL.
“So when it happened… I was excited.”
Ogechi, who was playing professionally in Spain for Cordoba CB before his move to the Thunder, says he could have opted for other offers overseas, but being in Kenya and playing in the BAL was more enticing.
“I did hear that there were offers for my services elsewhere, but I wanted to play here at home and play in a team with a whole bunch of my friends,” said Ogechi.
So far, Ogechi has enjoyed himself in his new surroundings. He’s also loving the journey of impacting basketball in Kenya with the Thunder in Kenya.
“It’s definitely been great. It’s a change in scenery and pace, but it’s been nice,” said Ogechi. “Basketball is starting to grow here in Kenya… To be on a team that is changing basketball here has been amazing.
“Seeing the fans and community come out in their numbers to support the game has been great. And a lot of people mentioning your name when you walk the street has also been nice.”
He felt that the level of professionalism has also moved up a notch since the Thunder entered the domestic fray.
“During the Elite 16 (Division East) qualifiers, a lot of people attended the games because they were here in Kenya, which was great for us. Speaking to some of them – they told me they were attending basketball matches for the first time. So, for Thunder to change the way the game is seen here, from it being recreational to being professional has been a good change,” said Ogechi.
Ogechi and the Thunder are looking forward to their BAL Nile Conference debut (17-25 May) in Rwanda. He also described a good vibe within the team and expressed that they are ready to take on host club APR, Al Ahli Tripoli and South Africa’s MBB.
“This being our first time, we are definitely excited. We are in a good conference. We are looking forward to the challenge. I think we can have a good run,” said Ogechi.
Derrick Ogechi believes they are underdogs of the Nile Conference.
Preparing for the BAL will require a good run of games – for the Thunder, that run has come through their domestic league, where they have been on a tear lately. Since the start of the Kenya Basketball League season, the Thunder have an 11-0 record, which should help with their momentum ahead of the BAL.
“Playing here in the local league is good. We know we have a target on our back because we are undefeated. Now going to the BAL for the first time, we are probably the underdogs. That being said, it will motivate us. It will help push and attack the teams we will face in our Conference,” said Ogechi.
The Thunder will want to put their best foot forward in the BAL debut. Kenyan basketball fans will expect nothing less. For Ogechi and his teammates maybe a chip on their shoulder is the right fuel in their battle to restore Kenya’s name in African basketball.
GROUP A of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Elite 16 sets the stage for a thrilling showdown as Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya), MBB (South Africa), Bravehearts Basketball Club (Malawi), and Kriol Star Basketball Club (Cape Verde) battle for a spot in the landmark fifth season of the BAL.
All four teams have one thing in common – they will experience the Elite 16 for the first time. So, the teams will aim to have a memorable debut at this level of The Road To BAL.
Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya)
Founded in 1998 and became Nairobi City Thunder in 2010, the team from the Kenya capital rapidly established itself as one of the East African nation’s premier basketball clubs. They came to the Road To BAL after winning their domestic league with an unbeaten record.
Path to the Elite 16
The Thunder qualified for the Elite 16 by delivering a dominant performance in the BAL qualifiers, showcasing a blend of international talent and experienced leadership. With several key additions to their roster, they enter the competition as one of the favourites in Group A.
Nairobi City Thunder player Tylor Ongwae has a versatility that can help the host club’s Elite 16 ambition. Pictures: FIBA
Key Players to Watch
Tylor Ongwae is a versatile defender and vocal leader who will be essential in shutting down opposing players due to his ability to guard multiple positions. Derrick Ogechi is a dynamic offensive player with the skill to break through defences and create scoring opportunities, making him a vital part of the Thunder’s offensive strategy.
Additionally, Abdoulaye Harouna and Ater Majok bring significant experience and physicality to the team. Majok excels in rebounding and shot-blocking, while Harouna enhances the defence and leadership, adding depth to an already strong roster.
Outlook
With a balanced roster and the advantage of playing at home, Nairobi City Thunder can dominate Group A. Their success will depend on their defensive performance and ability to execute under pressure. Maintaining consistency throughout the competition will be crucial to their success.
MBB (South Africa)
Founded in 2020, MBB is a relatively new basketball club that has quickly risen to prominence in South Africa. Following the Cape Town Tigers’ withdrawal from the domestic competition in South Africa, MBB seized the opportunity to represent the country on the continental stage.
Path to the Elite 16
MBB earned their place in the Elite 16 by winning the 2024 South African National Club Championship. Their success can be attributed to their strong cohesion, as they primarily rely on local talent, with a few experienced players providing leadership and tactical insight.
Key Players to Watch
Neo Mothiba, a seasoned veteran, brings essential leadership, scoring, and stability to MBB. With his wealth of experience in high-pressure situations, Mothiba is an invaluable asset in Group A of the competition. His ability to remain composed and make critical decisions under pressure will be crucial for the team’s performance.
Lebesa Selepe, a former player for the Cape Town Tigers, adds another layer of depth to MBB’s roster, bringing with him valuable experience from his time in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and a deep understanding of the tactical nuances required at this level of competition. His insight into the strategies of top-tier teams will be instrumental in shaping MBB’s approach.
As newcomers to the Elite 16, MBB faces a steep learning curve, but their chemistry and disciplined play could surprise more experienced teams. Their teamwork and resilience will be essential as they compete against some of the best clubs on the continent.
Kriol Star Basketball Club (Cape Verde)
Cape Verde’s Kriol Star Basketball Club surprisingly earned a wild card entry to the Elite 16. They had a 0-2 record in the Division West preliminary qualifiers, and they will hope for a better showing in Kenya.
Path to the Elite 16
Early strong performances showcased their abilities, but losses to top teams like Stade Malien and Al Ahli Tripoli ended their interest in the competition. Nonetheless, the team’s wild card entry presents an opportunity to prove themselves.
Key Players to Watch
Dieudonne Ndayisaba Ndizeye, a standout player for Kriol Star, brings exceptional athleticism and defensive skills, making him a vital contributor, especially in rebounding and disrupting opposing offences. Kclejuan Brown’s presence in the paint and ability to control the boards are crucial to Kriol Star’s defensive strength, though improving his shooting efficiency will be critical.
De Angelo Stewart, a versatile scorer, can light up the scoreboard, but consistency in his shooting will be essential for the team’s success. Abdelali Lahrichi, as the playmaker, provides vital vision and passing to maintain Kriol Star’s offensive rhythm, though he must focus on reducing his turnover rate to avoid costly mistakes.
Can Abdelali Lahrichi make Kriol Star’s second chance count in the Elite 16?
What the stats say
Shooting Efficiency: Kriol Star struggled with shooting accuracy during the qualifiers, posting a field goal percentage of only 37.3% against Stade Malien and 38.2% against Al Ahli Tripoli.
Turnovers: The team faced challenges with ball security, committing 18 turnovers against Stade Malien and 19 against Al Ahli Tripoli.
Interior Defense: Kriol Star allowed opponents to score heavily in the paint – particularly during their losses to Stade Malien, they surrendered 42 points inside.
Outlook
To succeed in the Elite 16, Kriol Star must strengthen its transition defence, limit turnovers, and improve shooting efficiency if they are to emerge from these qualifiers.
Bravehearts Basketball Club (Malawi)
Malawian club Bravehearts Basketball Club has rapidly established itself as one of the leading clubs in the country. Founded in 2015, the club has achieved significant success in national and regional competitions. Their historic qualification for the Elite 16 in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) qualifiers was the stuff of dreams. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for Malawian basketball.
Path to the Elite 16
Entering the qualifiers with only eight registered players, Bravehearts defied expectations. They overcame early setbacks to secure their spot in the Elite 16. Their resilience was particularly evident in their thrilling 73-71 victory over Costa do Sol in the preliminary qualifiers and indicative of a team that can handle pressure.
Key Players to Watch
Harrison Banda is the beat of Bravehearts. His leadership and experience are invaluable to the team. Standing at just 6ft7, Banda defies expectations on the court, particularly with his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities. His standout performance against Costa do Sol – scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds – highlights his exceptional two-way capabilities and ability to outwork taller players. Banda’s experience in multiple BAL qualifying campaigns with different teams has sharpened his skills and mental fortitude, making him a crucial asset in high-stakes situations.
While Banda provides stability, younger players like Faad Billy and Ian Limbe were key contributors. Billy showcased his versatility against Costa do Sol, contributing 17 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, while Limbe added a much-needed scoring boost with 15 points.
Ian Limbe is one of the key factors in Bravehearts’ progress to the Elite 16.
Outlook
Bravehearts has demonstrated they can compete at a high level despite facing challenges. With a limited rotation and a lack of depth, their focus will be on maintaining energy, teamwork, and resilience. They will rely on their strong defence and the ability to execute under pressure, which has been central to their success.
Conclusion
Group A is set to deliver thrilling matchups, with every team possessing the potential to shake up the competition. Nairobi City Thunder will look to dominate on home soil, while MBB aims to prove themselves in continental basketball. Kriol Star will fight to overcome their previous struggles, while Bravehearts, with their resilience and heart, will continue to defy expectations. This group is poised for an exciting and unpredictable run to the BAL playoffs.
TYLOR Ongwae is a heralded son in Kenyan basketball, from providing a historic clutch moment in a Morans vest to capturing domestic and continental success in Europe. He has done it all in his career. Winning the FIBA Europe Cup quenched his thirst for a major trophy and was a fitting end to his lengthy and storied career abroad.
Ongwae, who signed with Kenya Basketball League champions Nairobi City Thunder in August, says the reason for his return home – after 14 years away – was to be near his business interests and a strong desire to inspire a new generation of players in his homeland.
“Last year, when I won the Europe Cup (with Germany’s Niners Chemnitz), I knew I was done. I tried to win it (Europe Cup) with five different teams… So when I finally won, I said to myself ‘I am done’,” he said vehemently. “Also, I am 33 now… I felt it was the right time to come and settle down.”
Tylor Ongwae decided to return to Kenya after winning the FIBA Europe Cup. Pictures FIBA and Thunder Media
Ongwae, a three-time Basketligaen league champion with the Bakken Bears of Denmark, says he wanted an opportunity to play in Kenya’s domestic league, something he has yet to experience.
“I have always wanted to play in Kenya… So this was a good time to do that and when I still have more to offer (on the court). When younger players see me playing here, it will encourage them…’ They will be able to see that, ‘this guy has played outside Kenya for 14 years and he was successful. I can learn from him’,” said Eldoret-born Ongwae.
Being home also means he can be hands-on with his business. “Regarding business – it’s good to be here rather than being outside,” said Ongwae, who has meat production as one of his enterprises. “We have a farm where we keep animals, and we sell the meat to people in Eldoret and Nairobi.”
Back to the business of basketball, before joining the star-laden Thunder, Ongwae had a few insights into the team. What made joining the Thunder more enticing for Ongwae was that the team had several Morans players in their set-up.
Bound for the Road To BAL, the addition of Ongwae to the Thunder’s roster bolsters the Nairobi team’s chances of successfully navigating the first stage of the Division East (15-20 October).
“Before I returned to Germany last year, I had a few practice sessions with them (City Thunder). I saw their professionalism and how they treat players. It excited me. I believe it’s worthwhile joining this team,” said Ongwae. “Also, eight of the players are my teammates in the national team (the Morans), so I had conversations with them about joining… I was sold and decided I want to be part of this team so we can chase the BAL.”
Ongwae has already tasted the BAL – having signed for Cote d’Ivoire’s ABC Fighters for Season 3’s playoffs. He says the level of competition surprised him.
“It was highly competitive that year. There were good teams… We lost by one point (against Petro de Luanda). It has gotten better each year. Teams have to prepare well,” said Ongwae.
In trying to become the first team from Kenya to qualify for the BAL, Thunder first has to get to the Elite 16 – their journey starts in neighbouring Tanzania. Host club JKT, Urunani (Burundi), Hawassa City (Ethiopia), Beau Vallon (Seychelles), Ushindzi (Comoros) and GNBC (Madagascar) all lie in wait for the Thunder.
“For the last month, we have been focusing on ourselves… especially the work we have to do on offence and defence – we know the group we are up against, and will focus on our opponents when the competition begins,” said Ongwae.
The two-time Danish Basketligaen Defensive Player of The Year and the Thunder have a decent amount of time to dot their I’s and cross their T’s before the start of The Road To BAL.
And as Ongwae embarks on this new journey, he also took a moment to reflect on his milestones.
While winning the FIBA Europe Cup was memorable for Ongwae – his game-winning deep two against Angola at the buzzer in the 2021 AfroBasket qualifier ranks much higher in his career.
Tylor Ongwae during the qualifier clash which saw him make the shot that qualified Kenya for the 2021 AfroBasket.
It was a shot that ended the Kenya men’s team’s 28-year hiatus from the continental tournament.
“Winning in Europe was one of the best feelings. I tried five times – four of them we lost in the knockout stages. Then there was the COVID year when we made the semi-finals, but we ended up not playing,” said Ongwae. “So just getting back on that stage and winning was an amazing feeling. It was really amazing.”
He reflected on the impact of his game-winning shot against the once-mighty Angola.
“I would say qualifying for the AfroBasket after 28 years was big-time. It was huge for us and the country. It restarted everything to do with basketball in the country. I hope in years to come there will be more talent coming out of Kenya and it will take us further than where we are now,” said Ongwae.
Ongwae is a certified legend in Kenya basketball. He has risen to the occasion for his country and the clubs he has played for abroad. Can he solidify his legacy by helping lead a club from Kenya to a first BAL? It would be a thunderous feat for club and country.
DURING the Cape Town Tigers’ match against FUS Rabat two weeks ago, three men quietly walked into the Sunbet Arena clad in the colours of Kenya’s super club, Nairobi City Thunder.
Sitting courtside at the BAL Kalahari Conference match, the men surveyed the scene, making mental notes of the setting they hope to see their club participate in next year. The Thunder, who came under new ownership last year, have caused raptures in the East African country’s basketball landscape.
Colin Rasmussen, founder and CEO of Twende Sports INC (the company that owns Nairobi City Thunder), Stephen Domingo (co-founder and head of basketball operations of Twende) and team coach Bradley Ibs, who were in South Africa for a couple of days, are spearheading the Thunders’ pursuit for a place in the BAL.
Colin Rasmussen has lived in Kenya for 11 years. Pictures: The BTO
Rasmussen, born in the US but raised in Pakistan, has called Kenya home for the last 11 years. The lifelong hooper has been active in the basketball scene of that country.
“I love basketball and I am passionate about it. Throughout my time there (Nairobi) I have been involved in the basketball scene. I have built courts and been active in the game from a recreational perspective,” says Rasmussen.
The formation of Twende, which means ” let’s go” in Swahili, has helped Rasmussen and partners do their bit to help transform basketball in Kenya.
“Last year, I decided with my business partners to start Twende Sports – a company dedicated to building the basketball ecosystem and promoting the sport,” said Rasmussen, who is from the streetball circuit. “We believe this is also a unique moment for Africa with the NBA investing in the continent. We are now seeing some of the best players in the world coming from Africa.
“The game is growing on the continent, and we want to support that.”
American-born Domingo has family ties to Nigeria and had the honour of captaining the West African nation’s team during the 2021 Afrobasket in Rwanda.
The 28-year-old former Georgetown Hoyas player says he was searching for ways to give back to basketball on the continent. That is when he met Rasmussen.
“It’s been important for me to figure out how to reinvest in basketball on the continent. Colin and I met in 2022 before I graduated (with an MBA). He was working on another venture. Our focus has been working to grow the game in Kenya, East Africa and we want to achieve success on the continent,” said Domingo.
Rasmussen continued in a similar vein as Domingo. He feels the existence of the BAL has changed the game on the continent, and the aim is for the Thunder to compete at that level.
“I felt this is basketball’s moment with the Basketball Africa League. It’s a new platform, and we aspire to have the best team in Africa. We want to prove that through the BAL,” said Rasmussen. “We have created a professional team, which is a first for Kenya because club basketball there has been recreational. It is a professional environment with contracts for players, with long-term commitments to them, and a proper training environment that enables the existing talent to go to the next level.”
Acquiring top talents like Ariel Okall, Ariel Ortega, Faheem Juma, Fidel Okoth, Griffin Ligare, and Albert Odero has made the club a force. The six Thunder players were also part of the Kenya Morans team that played in the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers in February.
Rasmussen stressed the importance of supporting the national team.
“Our goal is to elevate the game of basketball. Our investment also supports the national team and the ecosystem in Kenya. So, we encourage our players to be part of the national team,” said Rasmussen. “It also benefits us, because it puts the players on the next level platform.”
Stephen Domingo captained the Nigeria national team at the 2021 AfroBasket in Rwanda.
While Kenyan players are the core of the Thunder, Domingo highlighted the importance of tapping into the expatriate communities for talent.
“Any good roster has a thesis behind it. Ours is that the Kenyan players are the backbone of the team. There is also a large South Sudanese population in Nairobi. Within that community are talented players who are looking for opportunities… So, it’s talent we should not lose out on,” said Domingo.
Rasmussen and Domingo are on track to fulfilling their ambition for the Nairobi-based club. The undefeated Thunder, who have a 16-0 record in the Kenya Basketball League (KBL), are on course to finish top. With a place in the KBL playoffs guaranteed, the goal is to win the league and set themselves on the path to the pinnacle of African club basketball.
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