Back to school for the Blades as Ochieng’ presses reset button ahead of new season

Strathmore Blades head coach Tony Ochieng’ has confirmed a bold rebuild ahead of the new Kenya National Men’s Basketball Premier League (KNBL) season, with youth development, restructuring, and a refreshed competitive mindset at the heart of the project.

After a disappointing campaign that saw the students finish ninth in the 22-team league, Ochieng’ admitted the Blades failed to meet expectations, forcing a rethink in recruitment and priorities.

“We didn’t perform to our expectations, but moving forward starting this month I will only work with the players available to me: those who can start, the recruited players, and those who qualify for scholarships,” Ochieng’ said.

Central to the reset is a deliberate injection of young talent, with the tactician scouting high school prospects and identifying Division One players ready to make the step up to the Premier League.

“We are going to do things differently by injecting young, new blood into the team. We are looking forward to playing this year’s league and achieving positive results,” he added.

The Blades’ technical bench is also finalising a demanding pre-season programme, including high-profile friendly matches aimed at sharpening the squad ahead of tip-off.

“We want to have high-profile friendlies and re-evaluate our plans. The injured players are being managed well. We’ve definitely lost a couple of players, but we are ready for the kickoff,” Ochieng’ noted.

Despite player exits and injury concerns, the coach remains upbeat, insisting the Blades are re-energised and ready to reclaim their competitive edge.

“This year, as stated, we are ready, we are focused, we are rejuvenated, and we will be back where we belong,” he affirmed.

Strathmore Blades are expected to open their campaign later this month as the league returns with heightened competition and significant roster movement across top clubs.