Nairobi City Thunder has made history by qualifying for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) on their first attempt.
In an exciting match on December 2, 2024, at the 5,000-seater Kasarani Indoor Arena, the Thunder triumphed 72-62 over Uganda’s City Oilers, securing their spot in the 2025 BAL.
This victory not only earned them a place in the prestigious league but also made Nairobi City Thunder the first Kenyan team to qualify, accomplishing this feat on their debut in the Road to BAL.
The team’s campaign has been marked by consistent performances, starting from the group stages, where they overcame stiff competition to advance to the knockout rounds. Thunder won all the Group ‘A’ matches, making them top the group’s standings. Standout players like Derrick Mekenge Ogechi, Tylor Ongwae and Ater Majok have been instrumental in the team’s success, contributing both offensively and defensively.
With their BAL 2025 qualification secured, Thunder will now turn their focus to Tuesday night final, against Angola’s Kriol Star, a rematch of Friday’s Group A match where Kriol was overwhelmed by Thunder.
The team, established in 1998 by retired coach Faustin Mgendi, began as a corporate team under the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and won the league in 2000. Over the years, the team underwent several identity changes. In 2003, it rebranded to International Christian Center with the church as a sponsor until 2010. From 2010 to 2023, the team operated as a self-sponsored side. In 2023, Twende Sports acquired the club, and the team rebranded as Nairobi City Thunder, going on to win their maiden title.
Coached by Bradley Ibs, the Thunder made their debut in the Road to BAL East Division Group D, finishing second behind Burundi’s Urunani. They secured three victories, defeating Seychelles’ Beau Vallon Heat (89-58), Madagascar’s GNBC (96-60), and hosts JKT (86-63), with a narrow loss to Urunani (89-88).
In their first appearance in the Elite 16, the Thunder remained perfect in the group stage, beating Kriol Star (who also qualified for BAL 2025 from Nairobi), MBB Blue Soldiers from South Africa, and Malawi’s Bravehearts to qualify for the semifinals.
The team now heads to the final, where they will face the Islanders, who beat favorites Urunani earlier. With their remarkable journey, Nairobi City Thunder has cemented its place in Kenyan basketball history.
