Thunders roar past Tigers, rejuvenated Umoja stop KCA

Thunders thrashed USIU Tigers 72-56 in the highlight of the weekend, of the Kenya Basketball League (KBPL).

The students tried to contain the Thunders ferocity, but their defense was overwhelmed by their opponents shooting might, led by their talisman Griffin Lugare who had easy time making rounds in their area.

Tigers trailed by only 8 points in the first half, but  a forgettable third quarter saw them chase from behind by 11 points.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Thunders Coach Abel Nson attributed the victory to consistency in the style of play and hunger for the title, albeit early into the season.

“We were calm, we went for the thing we are used to. We played in the familiar style so we were not struggling to make our moves. They tried to hold us at the start but we knew how to shake them,” told Nson.

Elsewhere, Umoja overcame KCA 53-44, in their opening match of the season thus silencing a side that sunk Equity Bank in their last fixture.

Umoja coach Martin Okwako attributed the success of his team to reinforcements made in the preseason.

“We were able to strengthen our team with four new signings, adding into the team that mettle we lacked as we reached the quarter finals of the playoffs last season. Of course last season’s achievement  gave us confidence we need to contest for the championship this season and the opening win underscores our intention,” noted Okwako.

In other matches, Ulinzi Warriors silenced Trailblazers 84-42 in a one sided match, while Equity had a walkover with their competitors for the day  Cooperative Bank failing to show up for the match. Both man and ladies teams have so far not honoured their matches, citing management issues.

Trailblazers veteran Billy Oyombe lamented the team was not in the best shape heading to the match, hence obvious errors that cost them.

“Lack of fitness was a major issue during the game but we are working on it.  As a local self-sponsored team, for some time we have been nurturing talent for other teams in the premier league. For example, we lost three of our starting five last season to Equity and Lakeside teams. It has been tough for the news lads adapting but we have faith in them, they will get better over time,” he offered.

Weekend Results

Umoja 53-41 KCA-U

Ulinzi 84-42 Trailblazers

USIU 56-72 Thunder

Additional reporting by Dennis Sabwa