• BASKETBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 months ago

City Thunder coach Ibs praises his players after winning SJAK Coach of the Month Award

Nairobi City Thunder head coach Bradley Ibs has been named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach of the Month for November, following his team’s impressive run in continental basketball.

Speaking after receiving the award, a delighted Ibs praised his players for their commitment.

“I’m thrilled to receive this award. I’m proud of my team’s hard work and dedication. We’re excited to represent Kenya on the continental stage again,” he said.

‎Coach Ibs guided City Thunder to qualify for the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) for the second year in a row, a rare achievement for a Kenyan club.

The team sealed their ticket in front of a packed Kasarani Indoor Gymnasium after a dominant 109–70 win over Mozambique’s Ferroviario da Beira.

‎The Kenyan champions also made history by becoming the first team in this year’s BAL East Division Elite 16 to score over 100 points.

Earlier, City Thunder lifted the Road to BAL East Division title after beating South Africa’s Johannesburg Giants 94–84 at Kasarani.

‎Under Ibs, City Thunder have continued to grow on the African stage. After making their BAL debut last year, the team repeated the feat by qualifying at home, showing consistency and strength against tough regional opposition.

‎Coach Ibs beat a strong list of nominees for the November award, including Kenya Police FC Bullets coach David Vijago, Kenya Morans Sevens coach Kevin Wambua, Kenya Lionesses coach Simon Odongo, Junior Stars coach William Muluya, and KPA women’s basketball coach Antony Ojukwu, among others.

‎SJAK President James Waindi congratulated the City Thunder tactician, saying the award reflects his impact on Kenyan basketball.

“Coach Ibs has made an outstanding contribution to the game. He is an inspiration, and we are proud to honour his achievements,” Waindi said.

‎City Thunder will now turn their focus to the 2026 BAL tournament, carrying the hopes of Kenyan basketball as they prepare to face Africa’s best clubs once again.