Nairobi City Thunder, reigning champions of the Kenyan Basketball League, are poised to make their much-anticipated debut in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) when the Nile Conference tips off in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 17 to May 25, 2025. 

This marks a significant milestone for Kenyan basketball, as Thunder becomes the first team from the country to compete in Africa’s premier club basketball competition.

Thunder earned their place in the BAL after a dominant run in the East Division qualifiers, highlighted by a decisive 99-86 victory over Kriol Star in the Elite 16 Finals at Nairobi’s Kasarani Indoor Arena last December. 

Under the leadership of head coach Bradley Ibs, the team has built a reputation for fast-paced, dynamic play and strong bench depth, which they hope will translate to success on the continental stage.

Drawn in the Nile Conference, Thunder faces a challenging group alongside Rwanda’s APR BBC, Libya’s Al Ahly Tripoli, and South Africa’s Made by Basketball (MBB). 

Each team will play the others twice in a round-robin format, with only the top two advancing to the playoffs in Pretoria, South Africa, next month. The playoffs and finals, set for June 6–14, will be held in Pretoria for the first time in BAL history.

Coach Ibs expressed optimism ahead of the campaign: “Representing Kenya in BAL is a huge honor. Maintaining solid defense, sharp attacking, and strong team unity will be key. We respect all teams in our group and will approach every game with determination”.

The BAL’s fifth season features a record six debutant teams, reflecting the league’s rapid growth and increasing competitiveness across Africa. BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall praised Thunder’s achievement, noting the significance for Kenyan basketball and the commitment shown by the club’s ownership and players.

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