Morans stars join national 3x3 team for World Cup qualifiers

Kenya Morans power forward Ariel Koranga reacts in a past match. [Courtesy]

Kenya Morans’ trio of Victor Ochieng, Ariel Koranga and Fidel Okoth are among the 20 players that have been called up to the national team to prepare for the Africa Cup 3x3 Games set for Rabat, Morocco. 

Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) first Vice Chairman Hilmi Ali said the three experienced players have been called to beef up the men’s squad for the continental games that will also serve as the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

Antwerp city in Belgium will host the World Cup in June next year. 

Speaking in Mombasa, Ali said both men and women 3x3 national basketball teams have started their preparations at Strathmore University, Nairobi.

“We have 20 men and 20 ladies players who have been training thrice a week and will go into residential camp from November 1 to 14 at Kasarani before flying out for the games that runs from November 18 to 21,” said Ali.

“The inclusion of Ochieng (Equity), Koranga (Formerly with KPA) and Okoth (Strathmore) will boost the team’s chances of making it to Belgium next year because of their experience in the Morans squad,” added the official.

In the ladies team, Kaya Tiwi High School girls Medina Okoth and Hilda Indasi have been included in the national team. 

3x3 made its worldwide competitive debut at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics in Singapore. The competition featured 20 teams in both boys’ and girls’ categories. 

Men’s team comprises of Martin Buluma, Ariel Okal, Ken Wachira, Ronald Gundo, Salim Kisilu, Victor Ochieng, Fidel Okoth, Fahim Juma, Salem Mutwiri, Larry Shavanga, Nzuki Alex, Oguso Alexander, Karanja Joseph, Otsimi Ryan, Kisia Lenson, Adit Stanley Aaron Wakadha, Siaji Davies. Bramwel Muchina, Philip Owilli, Oscar Otieno, Paul Maglore, Collins Nyamao, Darril Omondi, Ariel Ortega and John Wijass.