Nairobi City Thunder were crowned champions of the 'Road to BAL Elite 16 East Division' after defeating South Africa's Jo'burg Giants 94-84 in a hard-fought final on Sunday, November 23, 2025. The victory, achieved in front of a passionate home crowd at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi, secures the Kenyan team's second consecutive qualification for the prestigious Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Both finalists had already booked their places in the 2026 BAL season by reaching the championship match, as the East Division qualifiers offered two qualification slots. However, the final was a contest for regional supremacy, with Thunder capping an undefeated tournament run. The Kenyan champions had previously edged the Giants 86-83 in a tense group stage encounter on November 20.

A Game of Momentum

Under the guidance of head coach Bradley Ibs, Thunder established an early dominance, taking the first quarter 28-17. They maintained their advantage, heading into halftime with a 50-38 lead. The decisive period was the third quarter, where Thunder's offense exploded for 33 points, stretching their lead to a commanding 22 points at 83-61. This offensive surge was fueled by exceptional three-point shooting, with Derrick Ogechi and captain Tylor Ongwae making crucial long-range shots.

Despite the significant deficit, the Jo'burg Giants mounted a spirited comeback in the final quarter, outscoring the hosts 23-11. The late push from the South African debutants created a tense finish, but Thunder's substantial lead from the earlier quarters proved insurmountable. The Kenyan side held on to clinch the 94-84 victory and the divisional crown.

Balanced Attack Secures Victory

Thunder's triumph was a result of a balanced team performance, with five players scoring in double figures. Ater Majok and Tylor Ongwae led the scoring for the Nairobi team with 17 points each. They were ably supported by Albert Odero, who contributed 14 points, while Derrick Ogechi and Lance Robert Thomas each added 11 points. Eugene Adera also delivered a strong all-around performance as a playmaker.

For the Jo'burg Giants, Dhieu Deing was the top performer with a game-high 21 points. Nkosinathi Sibanyoni added 16 points, and Lehgonolo Charles contributed 14.

Implications for Kenyan and East African Basketball

This victory marks a significant moment for Kenyan basketball. Nairobi City Thunder, who made history as the first Kenyan team to qualify for the BAL in 2025, have now solidified their position as a dominant force in the East African region. Their back-to-back qualification underscores the growth and professionalization of the team since its acquisition by Twende Sports Limited in August 2023.

The team's success in the Elite 16 tournament, hosted in Nairobi, has also reignited local passion for the sport, with thousands of fans attending the games at Kasarani Indoor Arena. As Thunder prepares for their second BAL campaign, they will aim to improve on their 2025 debut, where they recorded one win in the group phase. Their continued presence on Africa's biggest basketball stage provides invaluable exposure for Kenyan players and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of talent in the country and the wider East Africa region.

In the third-place playoff match held earlier on Sunday, Tanzania's Dar City Basketball Team defeated Ferroviario da Beira from Mozambique.