Kenyan basketball champions Nairobi City Thunder have achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first team from Kenya to qualify for the prestigious Basketball Africa League (BAL). The Thunder sealed their place in Africa’s premier basketball competition with a commanding 72-62 victory over Uganda’s City Oilers in the East Division Elite 16 final, held at Kasarani Indoor Arena.
This achievement represents a landmark moment not just for the team but for Kenyan basketball, as Thunder now step onto the continental stage as trailblazers.
The Road to BAL Qualification: Dominance in the East Division Elite 16
The East Division Elite 16 offered Nairobi City Thunder an opportunity to test their mettle against some of the strongest teams in the region. From the start, the Bradley Ibs-coached team displayed resilience, teamwork, and a hunger for victory that set them apart.
Game 1: Thunder’s Explosive Start Against MBB Blue Soldiers
Thunder’s campaign began with an emphatic 102-59 win over South Africa’s MBB Blue Soldiers. This game set the tone for the tournament as Thunder combined disciplined defense with fluid offensive play. Their ability to control the tempo of the game while making critical defensive stops highlighted their readiness to compete at the highest level.
Game 2: A Dominant Win Over Kriols
In their second outing, Thunder showcased their offensive prowess with a resounding 104-71 victory against Cape Verde’s Kriol Star. The team’s versatility was evident as multiple players stepped up to contribute. This win underlined Thunder’s status as tournament favorites and further boosted their confidence.
Game 3: Outclassing the Bravehearts
Thunder’s third match saw them take on Malawi’s Bravehearts, another strong contender. Despite the Bravehearts’ determined efforts, Thunder controlled the game from start to finish, securing a convincing 91-68 win. The victory solidified their position as the standout team in the East Division and earned them a spot in the final.
The Final Showdown: Thunder vs. City Oilers
The much-anticipated final against Uganda’s City Oilers was a thrilling contest that showcased the best of African basketball. With a place in the BAL at stake, both teams brought their A-game, but it was Thunder who emerged victorious.
First Half: Setting the Tone
Thunder began the game with intensity, led by Uche Iroegbu and Tylor Ongwae. After an early lead by the Oilers, Thunder quickly regained control, with Ongwae sinking a crucial three-pointer and Ater Majok dominating under the rim. The first quarter ended 18-11 in favor of Thunder, giving them the momentum.
The second quarter saw Thunder extend their lead to double digits with a 5-0 run. Parrish Petty’s sharp shooting from beyond the arc brought the Oilers closer, but Thunder’s defensive efforts ensured they retained a 34-26 lead at halftime.
Second Half: Battling Runs and Regaining Control
The Oilers came out strong in the third quarter, going on a 6-0 run to close the gap to just one basket. However, Thunder regrouped, with Ibs’ charges pulling away to a 41-32 lead. The Oilers responded again, narrowing the gap to 41-40, thanks to the lethal shooting of Petty. Thunder held their nerve and ended the quarter with a buzzer-beating three-pointer by Garang Diing to restore a 54-45 lead.Nairobi City Thunder players and officials celebrate their semi-final win over City Oilers of Uganda during the Africa Champions Clubs Road to Basketball Africa League 2025 Elite 16 East Africa Division qualifiers at the Moi International Sports Centre, Gymnasium on December 2, 2024.
In the final quarter, the Oilers continued to fight, with Falando Cortez Jones hitting critical three-pointers. Despite their best efforts, Thunder’s defense held firm. Iroegbu’s leadership and Majok’s double-double performance sealed the game, ending in a historic 72-62 win.
Key Players and Standout Performances
Thunder’s success was built on a combination of individual brilliance and collective effort. Several players delivered exceptional performances throughout the tournament:
- Uche Iroegbu: The American-Nigerian guard was the heartbeat of Thunder’s offense in the final, scoring 16 points, dishing out six assists, and grabbing five rebounds. His game-high efficiency rating of 27 underscored his impact, as he orchestrated plays with precision and added four steals and two blocks.
ANOTHER HISTORY MADE! ✍️
@nct_basketball become the second #RoadToBAL debutant team in the east to reach #theBAL as they defeat @cityoilers 72 – 62! #Elite16 pic.twitter.com/YfDR5BQtIh
— Road To BAL (@roadtoBAL) December 2, 2024
- Ater Majok: The towering center recorded a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. While he committed seven turnovers, Majok’s defensive presence and ability to dominate the paint were crucial.
- Tylor Ongwae: Ongwae’s early three-pointers and leadership provided Thunder with the foundation to build their lead, inspiring confidence in his teammates during key moments.
A Historic Milestone for Kenyan Basketball
Nairobi City Thunder’s qualification for the Basketball Africa League is a groundbreaking achievement for Kenyan basketball. Established in partnership with the NBA and FIBA, the BAL represents the pinnacle of club basketball in Africa, providing teams with a platform to compete against the continent’s best.
Coach Bradley Ibs hailed the victory as a defining moment: “This is a historic achievement, not just for our team but for Kenyan basketball. It shows what we are capable of with hard work and determination.”
Thunder’s success is also a testament to the growth of basketball in Kenya. The team’s journey will inspire a new generation of players and highlight the potential for Kenyan teams to excel on the international stage.
Preparing for the BAL Challenge
As Thunder celebrates their historic qualification, the focus now shifts to preparing for the Basketball Africa League. Competing against the continent’s elite teams will require the team to elevate their game even further. Areas of focus will include minimizing turnovers, strengthening defensive rotations, and maintaining consistency in execution.
Coach Ibs emphasized the need for further preparation: “The BAL is a whole new level, and we need to ensure we are ready for the challenge. We will build on this success and aim to represent Kenya with pride.”
The Legacy of Thunder’s Achievement
Nairobi City Thunder’s journey to the BAL is a story of resilience, determination, and teamwork. Their success not only places Kenya on the continental basketball map but also highlights the potential for sports to unify and inspire. As Thunder prepares to take on Africa’s best, their achievement will continue to resonate, paving the way for future Kenyan teams to follow in their footsteps.
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