Nairobi City Thunder has asserted their dominance in the regular season of the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Men’s Premier League, maintaining an impeccable unbeaten record with their 18th victory of the campaign.
The team showcased their prowess with a commanding 75-55 triumph over former champions Ulinzi Warriors. Anticipated to provide stiff competition and potentially halt Thunder’s undefeated streak, the Warriors fell short, unable to match the pace and efficiency of the Brad Ibs-led side.
Thunder’s stellar performance propelled them to the top of the league standings with 36 points, defying expectations for a closely contested match.
The encounter was characterized by intense physicality and drama, culminating in a double ejection early in the fourth quarter. Albert Odero of Thunder and Ulinzi’s Churchill Odhiambo, engaged in a heated exchange throughout the game, were both ejected after receiving their second unsportsmanlike behavior fouls.
Reflecting on the match, Thunder coach Brad Ibs acknowledged the physicality brought by Ulinzi but commended his team for maintaining composure and asserting their dominance. Conversely, Ulinzi coach Bernard Mufutu attributed their defeat to lack of discipline, particularly in the second quarter, where unnecessary fouls proved costly.
Even though the Warriors started promisingly, Thunder’s resilience and injection of pace gradually turned the tide in their favor. With a comfortable halftime lead of 45-29, Thunder continued to capitalize on Ulinzi’s lapses, extending their advantage in the third quarter.
Despite the disruptions caused by the double ejections, Thunder remained composed and focused, ensuring a convincing victory. Coach Ibs even had the luxury to rotate his entire lineup in the final minutes, highlighting the team’s depth and cohesion.
Looking ahead, Ulinzi Warriors aim to bounce back in their upcoming match against Africa Nazarene University (ANU) on Sunday, seeking an improved performance to regain momentum in the league.
