As Kenya’s national wheelchair basketball team intensifies preparations at Kasarani ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, player Ian Kanji has opened up about his journey in the sport, its impact on his life, and the team’s readiness for upcoming international competitions.
Kanji, a Nairobi-based athlete originally from Githurai 44, has been playing wheelchair basketball for nearly five years after joining the sport in 2021. He currently turns out for the Nairobi Wheelchair Basketball Club, which trains at the Nyayo National Stadium Annex.
Reflecting on his career, Kanji described representing Kenya at the All Africa Games as the biggest tournament of his career so far. He is now focused on helping the national team compete strongly at the Commonwealth Games.
“It’s a great game,” said Kanji as he spoke about the team’s current training camp.
“We have been pushing hard and have been in camp for the last two weeks. Our preparations are going perfectly. We are doing what needs to be done because we know we are going to meet the best in the world. We just have to keep up and train exceptionally well.”
Kanji revealed that his passion for the sport was inspired by his love for watching the NBA. Due to his physical disability, playing conventional basketball was not possible, leading him to discover wheelchair basketball. He credits a friend, Ochieng, for introducing him to the sport during his college years.
The game has transformed his life both on and off the court.
“As a person with a disability, it helps me a lot because I can exercise and stay physically fit. It also supports my livelihood considerably,” he said.
In addition to wheelchair basketball, Kanji also occasionally plays sitting volleyball.
His international journey began when he represented Kenya in an Under-23 tournament in South Africa. Since then, he has steadily progressed through junior competitions and qualifiers for major continental tournaments.
Kanji described the All Africa Games as both challenging and rewarding, noting that the experience helped the team improve and climb the rankings.
Looking ahead to global competition, Kanji expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and praised the support they have received.
“Our preparations are excellent, and we are getting what we need as players. We cannot complain. It is now up to us to train hard and push ourselves. We have high expectations. As Kenyans, we always have high spirits.”
Despite the challenge of facing some of the world’s strongest teams, Kanji remains motivated by the opportunity to represent the country on the global stage.
“Being there means we have a good name and a good team. We know we are representing 55 million Kenyans, and we want to make them smile,” he said.
Kanji also believes the international stage presents opportunities beyond competition.
“You never know who is watching,” he noted, expressing hope that the exposure could open doors for professional growth and future opportunities.
As Glasgow approaches, Kanji and his teammates remain determined to carry Kenya’s flag high and make the nation proud.