Mercy Ayitso Wanyama, a Kenyan basketball standout, has become the first Kenyan to sign a professional contract in the Spanish basketball league, marking a historic milestone for Kenyan sports.
The 2016 women’s Premier League Most Valuable Player, sister of Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama and former international McDonald Mariga, has joined Spanish second-tier side Antuna Adba for the remainder of the season. The performance-based deal includes six games with the team.
Wanyama, a former Langata High School basketball captain, expressed her excitement about the opportunity. "I have always wanted to play in Spain. I want to try European basketball and hope to give my best version," she said. She also cited her brother McDonald’s positive feedback about Asturias as a key factor in her decision.
The centre-forward, who completed a two-month trial in November and January, has already secured a work permit. She is expected to feature in Saturday’s match against Arxil. "I feel very well physically and have not stopped training," she added.
This move makes Wanyama the third member of the renowned Wanyama sporting family to sign a professional contract in Europe. Her brother Thomas plays for Mathare United FC in the Kenyan Premier League, while their father was a former AFC Leopards legend.
