Tom Wamukota in action against Umoja Basketball at Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium on Wednesday, August 19/HANDOUTCity Thunder are targeting a perfect finish to the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) League regular season after extending their unbeaten run with a commanding 90-50 win over Umoja Basketball at Nyayo Stadium on Wednesday night.
With two matches remaining, Thunder centre Tom “Bush” Wamukota believes the unbeaten run has strengthened the defending champions’ confidence ahead of the playoffs.
“We want to keep the momentum going. Going unbeaten through the regular season would be a big achievement for the team. However, we are aware the playoffs are a different challenge,” Wamukota said. He added, “We are looking forward to the match, and we want to make sure we go into the playoffs in the best possible shape.”
Thunder dominated from the opening quarter, leading 22-16 before restricting Umoja to just four points in the second period to take a 40-20 lead into halftime. They continued to pull away after the break, scoring 26 points in the third quarter and 24 in the fourth to complete a 40-point victory.
Derrick Ogechi and Tylor Ongwae led Thunder’s scoring with 16 points each, while Garang Diing added 15. Wamukota dominated the boards with 13 rebounds, including 10 defensive rebounds. Thunder face Strathmore Blades Friday night before meeting Eldonets on Sunday at 8 pm, with both matches at Nyayo Stadium.
Coach Brad Ibs praised his players for maintaining their intensity despite the comfortable margin. “It was a tough game, but the players rose to the occasion. We knew we had to come out with the right energy and stay focused, and I was pleased with the way the guys responded,” Ibs said.
The coach said the final two games would be used to sharpen the team ahead of the playoffs. “The playoffs are what we have been working towards, so we want to use these last two games to sharpen up, stay healthy and make sure we are ready for that stage,” he said.
