Ariel Okall upbeat of success with Titans in Uganda despite debut loss

Moran player Ariel Okal jumps high during the unveiling of Morans team at Nyayo National stadium.Nov 7, 2020. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kenya Morans star Ariel Okall is optimistic of succeeding with the Kampala International University(KIU) Titans in the 2021 National Basketball League of Uganda (NBL).

The former Kenya Ports Authority forward signed with the Ugandan university side last week from AlBashaer Basketball Club after suspension of sports in Oman due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to The Standard Sports from his base in Kampala, Uganda, Okall said he is confident of helping the Ugandan side win trophies.

This is despite a losing debut for the Morans forward whose side went down 56-68 to second placed JKL Dolphins. 

“I had a quiet night but I was trying to fit it getting my chemistry with the team. I was just looking to get to my spots and find my rhythm,” said Okall.

Kenya Morans' players Fidel Okoth (left) and Ariel Okall in past training. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Okall scored five points and six rebounds in 24 minutes played with Feisal Aden finishing as Titans leading scorer with 11 points and four rebounds.

“The Ugandan fans welcomed me very well. You can see even on social media the KIU fans have showed me a lot of love. There is no better way of repaying that than helping the team win games and trophies,” said the former US Setif player.

 Okall noted that the NBL is tough and more physical. He said majority of the teams have very good players with lucrative contracts, a step the Kenyan league needs to make in the near future.

“There are sponsors, contracts etc. Nevertheless, I believe we are slowly growing and Kenya will get there soon,” he said.

Titans are currently eighth in the NBL standings with three points after the defeat but with two games in hand. Heavyweights City Oilers lead the standings with eight points.