Nairobi City Thunder maintained their unbeaten run in the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) League after securing a commanding 90-50 victory over Umoja Basketball at the Nyayo National Stadium yesterday.
The Thunder took control from the opening quarter, leading 22-16 before producing a dominant second quarter in which they limited Umoja to just four points to take a 40-20 lead into halftime. They continued to pull away after the break, scoring 26 points in the third quarter and 24 in the fourth to seal a 40-point victory.
Derrick Ogechi and Tylor Ongwae led the scoring for City Thunder with 16 points each, while Garang Diing added 15. Tom ‘Bush’ Wamukota made his presence felt on the boards, finishing with a game-high 13 rebounds, including 10 defensive rebounds.
Thunder now have two regular-season games remaining this weekend as they target a perfect finish for a third season consecutive season. They face Strathmore Blades on Friday, August 21, before taking on Eldonets on Sunday, August 23 at 8 PM, both matches being played at Nyayo Stadium.
Head Coach Brad Ibs acknowledged that the game presented a challenge to his side but praised the players for responding with the intensity and discipline required.
“It was a tough game, but the players rose to the occasion. We knew we had to come out with the right energy and stay focused, and I was pleased with the way the guys responded. We executed well and kept our intensity throughout the game.”
With the playoffs approaching, Ibs said the team’s attention is now on completing the regular season strongly while building momentum for the play-offs.
“We have two games left and, of course, finishing the third season unbeaten is something we want. But we are also looking at the bigger picture. The playoffs are what we have been working towards, so we want to use these last two games to sharpen up, stay healthy and make sure we are ready for that stage.”
Wednesday victory marked another strong showing for a side that has remained unbeaten in the KBF League, with the team now focused on Strathmore Blades and Eldonets before turning their full attention to the playoffs.