Nairobi City Thunder recovered from a slow start to their 2026 Kalahari Conference campaign with an impressive 101–92 victory over RSSB Tigers in Pretoria. Showing renewed energy and determination, the Kenyan side adopted a more aggressive and efficient style of play, dominating early and maintaining composure despite a late surge from their opponents.
The Thunder set the tone in the opening quarter, outscoring RSSB 38–24, and continued their offensive dominance into halftime with a conference-high first-half total of 62 points. Their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, proved decisive in a game that often resembled a three-point contest, with both teams combining for 24 successful shots from long range.
Derrick Ogechi led the Thunder with a BAL career-high 22 points, supported by Tylor Ongwae’s 17 and Garang Diing’s 14 off the bench. Jawachi Nzeakor also played a key role, contributing 21 points and eight rebounds. For RSSB Tigers, Antino Jackson Jr scored 24 points, while Makong Mathiang delivered a standout double-double with 22 points and 22 rebounds.
Despite RSSB rallying from a 25-point deficit to cut the lead to nine late in the game, the Thunder held firm to secure their first-ever 100-point game in BAL history and their second win of the season. Power forward Okall Koranga highlighted the importance of the victory, emphasizing team unity, resilience, and the confidence boost it provides as they look ahead to future campaigns.
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