Blades brace for Thunder test in weekend double-header

The Blades will first face defending champions Nairobi City Thunder on Saturday at 8 p.m. at Nyayo Gymnasium before returning to the same venue on Sunday to take on Eldonets Platinum.

Ochieng acknowledged the tough test posed by Thunder, highlighting their fast-paced style, sharp ball movement and heavy reliance on three-point shooting. However, he noted that such matches offer valuable learning opportunities for his young squad.

“Considering that we are playing one of the best teams at the moment, I choose to take the positives from the game. It’s an opportunity to compete against some of the best players who participated in one of Africa’s top tournaments, the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

“We’ll be up against a very experienced side, and there is a lot we can learn from them. They transition well both offensively and defensively, rely heavily on three-point shooting, apply pressure through trapping and move the ball quickly. Their players are highly rated, so this will be a great test for us,” Ochieng said.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash against Eldonets Platinum, the tactician expressed confidence in his team’s form and preparation.

“It’s another game against a side that has been doing well. They defeated Stanbic Shields on their home court last weekend. If we can get a win, it will be good for us,” he said.

“I’m in top shape after a two-week break, and the team is ready. Our focus has been on how to handle their shooters because they take a lot of three-pointers. We must find a way to defend that. We have a young team, but it is adaptable and ready to adjust to any situation that may arise during the game.”

Despite the demanding schedule, Ochieng believes his side has the resilience and discipline to compete strongly in both fixtures as they continue to grow in the league.

Elsewhere, KPA head coach Robert Mugabe remains optimistic about securing maximum points as his side prepares for a crucial double-header in the Men’s Premier League.

The Dockers will take on Umoja on Friday at 8 p.m. at Nyayo Gymnasium before returning to the same venue on Saturday at 4 p.m. to face UON Terror.

Mugabe expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness, citing strong preparations and a fully fit team heading into the two fixtures.

“Preparations have been going on well. We have no injuries, and the camp is very energetic. We are well aware of the importance of the two games. We’ll take it one game at a time and ensure we come out with a win,” he said.

Weekend Fixtures

Friday, April 10 — Nyayo Gymnasium

Umoja vs KPA — MP — 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 11 — Nyayo Gymnasium

Lady Titans vs Zetech Sparks — WP — 8 a.m.
Strathmore Swords vs Safe Spaces — WP — 10 a.m.
USIU Flames vs Dream Girls — WP — 12 p.m.
Ulinzi Warriors vs Eldonets Platinum — MP — 2 p.m.
UON Terror vs KPA — MP — 4 p.m.
Equity Hawks vs KPA — WP — 6 p.m.
Strathmore Blades vs Nairobi City Thunder — MP — 8 p.m.

Sunday, April 12 — Nyayo Gymnasium

USIU Flames vs Zetech Sparks — WP — 2 p.m.
Safe Spaces vs KPA — WP — 4 p.m.
Strathmore Blades vs Eldonets Platinum — MP — 6 p.m.
Moichers vs Equity Dumas — MP — 8 p.m.