Leaders Nairobi City Thunder are expected to roar louder when they begin their Kenya National Basketball playoff quarterfinals against the University of Nairobi Terrorists at Nyayo Stadium on Saturday.
Coach Brads Ibs said his unbeaten side has prepared well and the players have been competitive in training in the last two weeks.
“We are looking forward to getting playoff games started. It’s been a great regular season but everyone starts afresh once more. We want to continue showcasing our quality,” said Ibs.
His counterpart, Eugene Genga, said: “Thunder have been sensational this year and that is good for the growth of basketball in the country.
“We will try and compete, taking one game at time. We can’t be afraid of them. They are good but they have their flaws.”
“This is a litmus test of how much we have grown. Their strength is a high-powered and organised attack that punishes opponents’ mistakes,” he added.
“We will need to improve our defence. I think if we can compete, this will be an interesting series. Let the best team win.”
Champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) teams start their playoffs in Nairobi against Africa Nazarene University (ANU) Wolfpacks (men) and Panthers (women).
The students’ coach, Mike Oluoch, is wary of the threat posed by the coastal sides.
“The playoffs have no second chance. It will not be an easy contest but we are up to the task,” said Oluoch.
They will play Game One in Nairobi without thinking about the rest of the series, which will be held at the KPA backyard, Makande Welfare Hall in Mombasa.
“We will play every game as if it’s the final. We are up for the challenge,” added Oluoch.
Fixtures
KPA v ANU Panthers
KPA v ANU Wolfpacks
Thunder v Terrorists
Shields v Shoot 4Life (Eldoret)
Snipers v Strathmore
Phoenix V Lakeside (Kisumu)
