Thunder’s first strike in Kigali

Albert Odero inspired the Nairobi City Thunder to a historic win in the Basketball Africa League as the Kenyan side recorded an 85-76 win at the BK Arena in Kigali, Saturday afternoon. 

The high flying Odero, was well and truly  unleashed as he recorded 25 points, nine rebounds and four assists  in the 5th round of the BAL Nile Conference competition. 

The Thunder could do no wrong for the most part of the game as they accrued a few turnovers, shot the ball really well and played better defense against MBB who had beaten the Nairobians 75-74 in a reverse fixture last time out from a Robinson Opong's buzzer beater in the fourth quarter.

The win continues the Thunder's Cinderella story in the BAL tournament after becoming the first Kenyan team to compete in the league instituted for Africa's elite basketball teams.

MBB's two wins to Thunder’s one  still puts the Thunder at a risk of missing out on a playoff  spot that is set for June 6-14th in Pretoria, South Africa and leaves the Thunder dead last in the Nile Conference table. 

Coach Brad Ibs started an all Kenyan starting five, with the synergy and cohesion between the starters laying out a game plan. The unsung hero, point guard Eugene  Adera was instrumental with his rebounds  and timely baskets, recording a double as he joined four others ; Tylor Ongwae, Uchenna Iroegbu, Albert Odero and Yohanne Kabongo who also scored double digits in the afternoon encounter. 

 MBB forward Teafale Lenard Jr was the game's highest scoring player, notching 39 points of MBB's 76 that showcased his variety of elite scoring and defense, including high flying dunks, timely three pointers and great defense falling just three points shy-off the league's record of 42 set by Al Ahli Tripoli's Jo Lual - Acuil in 2024.