Kenya Morans head coach Cliff Owuor has named his final 12-man squad set to compete in the final round of the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket Qualifiers in Tripoli, Libya, from February 21-23.
The squad features three changes from the one that participated in the first round of qualifiers in Tunisia last year. Among the key highlights is the return of power forward Tylor Ongwae, who is expected to play his first FIBA game for Kenya since January 2022. The squad also welcomes back center Bush Wamukota, while KPA’s Salim Kisilu earns his debut call-up for a major tournament.
Tylor Ongwae Returns After Two-Year Absence
Ongwae’s return is a major boost for the Morans. The Nairobi City Thunder forward, who had previously retired from international duty following the 2021 Afrobasket tournament, reversed his decision earlier this year and joined the team’s preliminary squad.
Speaking to Jambobet news, Ongwae explained why he decided to make a comeback to the national team.
“I decided on my return after joining Thunder, where we have about eight national team players. We have had a solid build-up, and that gave me the conviction that we can replicate the same success at the national level as we look to make back-to-back Afrobasket appearances,” said Ongwae.
His experience and leadership will be crucial for Kenya as they aim to secure qualification for the continental tournament.
Bush Wamukota Strengthens Morans’ Defense
Another key addition to the squad is center Bush Wamukota, who missed the first round of qualifiers last year. The 31-year-old big man last featured for Morans two years ago in the FIBA AfroCan tournament, where he averaged six points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in four games.
His presence in the paint will be a major boost, providing defensive stability and rebounding strength as Kenya battles against some of Africa’s best teams.
New Faces and Squad Adjustments
The only newcomer in this year’s squad is KPA forward Salim Kisilu, who will be making his major tournament debut for the Morans. Kisilu’s call-up showcases his impressive form in the local league, and he will be eager to make an impact on the international stage.
Meanwhile, the squad sees the departure of three players from last year’s qualifiers:
- Faheem Juma
- Ariel Ortega
- Ariel Okal (misses out due to compassionate reasons)
With these adjustments, the coaching staff is confident that the current squad has the right balance of experience and emerging talent to perform well in Libya.
Kenya Morans’ Qualification Challenge
Kenya currently sits third in Group E, having collected four points from three matches. They are aiming to finish in the top two of their group to secure a spot in the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket tournament.
The Kenya National Basketball Team, Morans, is set to depart this week for the AfroBasket Qualifiers in Libya.
The team will face;
21st- Tunisia
22nd Angola
23rd Guinea#TeamKenya pic.twitter.com/N2YMkFJxbq— TeamKenya (@OlympicsKe) February 18, 2025
The Morans will play their first game against Tunisia on Friday at 4:00 PM EAT, before facing Angola on Saturday and Guinea on Sunday. These matches will determine their fate in the qualifiers, and they must deliver strong performances to keep their Afrobasket dreams alive.
Key Players to Watch
With a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young talents, Kenya Morans will be counting on several key players to step up in Libya:
- Tylor Ongwae – The returning power forward is expected to lead the team’s offense and provide much-needed leadership on the court.
- Bush Wamukota – The towering center will play a crucial role in defense, protecting the rim and controlling rebounds.
- Joel Awich – One of the team’s most versatile players, capable of impacting both ends of the floor.
- Derrick Ogechi – A sharp-shooter from beyond the arc, his three-point shooting could be a game-changer.
- Griffin Ligare – The experienced guard will be crucial in organizing the team’s play and setting the tempo.
Final Kenya Morans Squad for FIBA Afrobasket Qualifiers
- Derrick Ogechi
- Salim Kisilu
- Joel Awich
- Blacio Owili
- Fidel Okoth
- Bramwel Mwombe
- Eugene Adera
- Tylor Ongwae
- Victor Bosire
- Bush Wamukota
- Albert Odero
- Griffin Ligare
With the final squad announced and preparations in full swing, all eyes will be on the Kenya Morans as they look to secure their place in the 2025 Afrobasket tournament.
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