Nairobi City Thunder Dominates Namuwongo Blazers 89-62 in Elite 16 Eastern Division Opener
Nairobi City Thunder (NCT) opened their Elite 16 Eastern Division campaign with a convincing 89-62 victory over Namuwongo Blazers.
Blazers Collapse in Second Half Despite Early Lead
The Ugandan visitors led early, but the hosts’ superior speed and rebounding ultimately decided the game. Nairobi City Thunder capitalized on their 61-47 rebounding advantage, scoring 24 points on counterattacks to Namuwongo’s 8, and converting 20 offensive rebounds compared to the Blazers’ 7.
NCT’s Third Quarter Surge Proves Decisive
After a close first half, Nairobi City Thunder pulled away in the third quarter, outscoring the Blazers 25-11 to take a 67-51 lead into the final period. The hosts maintained their momentum to close out a 27-point victory.
Players’ Performance
- Lance Thomas and Albert Odero led the Thunder with 18 and 16 points, respectively.
- Tylor Ongwae and Eugene Adera also finished in double figures, scoring 14 and 13 points.
- Ater Majok dominated on the glass with 12 rebounds.
- For the Blazers, Jovan James Mooring and James Okello were the leading scorers with 15 and 11 points, respectively.
I told the guys at halftime, we need to play our game. We can’t take our foot off the pedal. The game changes in the third quarter, and we executed our game plan perfectly.”– Albert Odero, NCT Captain
FIBA
Nairobi City Thunder Looking Ahead
With the impressive win, Nairobi City Thunder will look to build momentum heading into their next match. Meanwhile, Namuwongo Blazers will look to bounce back and make adjustments before their final group game.
Did you know?
Nairobi City Thunder finished the regular season as the top team in Kenya, earning their Elite 16 Eastern Division spot.
Pro Tips: What to Watch in the Next Game
- Nairobi City Thunder’s ability to maintain their intensity in the second half.
- Namuwongo Blazers’ ability to stick to their game plan and play as a team.
- The rebounding battle, as it was a decisive factor in this game.
Join the Conversation
What do you think will happen in the next match? Share your thoughts in the comments below.