USIU survive Thunder strike in KBF men's league

United States International University (USIU) Tigers defeated Nairobi City Thunder 67-58 in a Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) men's Premier League match at Nyayo Stadium at the weekend.

The win was a great relief to USIU head coach Isaac Munyoki, who is out to wrestle the premier title from defending champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

Despite the loss, Thunder head coach Faustine Mgendi is optimistic they will have a better performance this season.

Already, he has recruited three players to help strengthen his side that lost three key marksmen including Kevin Chogo (to Equity Bank) and Shem Odhiambo, who has linked up with last year's league runner-up, Co-operative Bank Spartans.

"I have brought on board two point guards and a big man to fill the void left by Chogo and Odhiambo. One of our signings is a swift player called Net (Big Man) from the US, while Brian Ondari and Kennedy Maru are point guards, whom we signed from Nairobi Aviation," said Mgendi.

So far, Thunder have won two matches against Equity Bank and Kenya College of Accountancy University. Apart from their loss to USIU, Thunder also lost to Strathmore University in their opening match of the season.

Mgendi, who has turned to well wishers and sponsors for financial help, said they would begin their training today as they prepare for their away fixture against KPA in Mombasa at the weekend.

Mgendi said they would improve their tactical approaches.