This archive report was first published on 1 October 2019.
On October 1, 2019, the Thunder men's basketball team secured the top spot in the Kenya Basketball Federation men's Premier League after a convincing 82-68 win over defending champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
Thunder captain Griffin Ligare led the team with 26 points, helping them complete a double win against KPA, following their first-leg victory in Mombasa.
Thunder head coach Sadat Gaya emphasized the importance of building momentum ahead of the playoffs, focusing on player health and execution of defensive and offensive sets.
With injured players Charles Kituyi, Jack Agunda, Shem Otieno, and Kevin Chogo expected to return, Gaya aims to perfect the team's performance.
The win propelled Thunder to the top of the league table with 40 points, with one game remaining. They will face second-placed Ulinzi on Friday in a decisive match to determine the league's top team.
Ulinzi, with 39 points, has two games left against Thunder and Umoja. KPA, meanwhile, has three games remaining and will face USIU, Strathmore, and Lakeside.
Kenya Ports Authority captain Samuel Ocholla acknowledged the team's poor defense and lethargy, vowing to adjust and finish third in the league.
Umoja suffered a 63-54 loss to Lakeside, who capitalized on their opponents' mistakes and slow transition. Umoja's head coach Steve Kuta blamed the officiating for the loss.
