Episodes

  • Nairobi City Thunder BAL 6 Review, Kenya Hoops Problems, NBA App Debate, Bam Adebayo 83 | Ep. 23
    Apr 23 2026

    Welcome back It's been a while since its been just Javan and Edu! In Episode 23 of the I Really Hoop Podcast, we have in-depth discussion on both Kenyan and global basketball topics. Our Jordan episode!


    In this episode, we break down Nairobi City Thunder’s performance and preparation in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season 6, analyzing their roster, level of competition, and whether they are truly ready to compete at the continental stage.


    The conversation also dives into the current challenges facing Kenyan basketball, including structural issues, competitiveness in the Kenya National Basketball League (KNBL), and what needs to change for the game to grow locally.


    On the global side, we debate the NBA viewing experience, comparing the NBA App and YouTube, and what platforms fans actually prefer in today’s digital era, because the BAL enforced the NBA App (NBA.com to be the only way to watch the BAL Season 6.


    We also react to the viral moment involving Bam Adebayo and the 83-point conversation, breaking down what it means in the wider NBA context.


    This episode blends Kenyan basketball analysis with global NBA conversations, delivering insight, debate, and honest opinions throughout.


    Chapters

    00:00 Intro Song ("BASELINE" prod. by Haven Music)

    01:56 Episode Topics Preview

    03:22 Thunder’s Hype and Merch

    04:36 Press Card and Coverage Plans

    05:19 BAL Watch Party Recap

    10:35 Thunder’s Games and Record

    13:59 Injuries and Team Critique

    16:30 Giveaway Win and Fan Moments

    19:25 NBA App Streaming Debate

    22:32 BAL Controversy and Expectations

    25:28 Dylan Ivy Waived Discussion

    27:22 Opinions and Fallout

    27:56 Kenya Basketball Growth

    28:49 NBA Expansion Buzz

    29:33 Kenya Select Game Recap

    30:15 Supporting Local Hoops

    31:36 Behind the Scenes Break

    33:00 Bam Adebayo 83

    36:02 Disrespect Debate

    38:07 Cooper Flagg 51

    39:09 Awards and Injuries

    45:29 Medina and Final Four

    50:35 Wrap Up and Netflix Talk


    Drop your thoughts below.


    🎙 Hosts

    Javan

    instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie⁠

    twitter_x: ⁠https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalie⁠

    linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie⁠

    Edu:

    instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/edmundi_o/⁠



    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.


    YouTube:

    https://youtu.be/NuMHgDd0JcI?si=__QyTORNavs91PyN


    Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/1MUc1Fx2cV8etw03CgQDLD?si=3340b65146404aa0


    Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/nairobi-city-thunder-bal-6-review-kenya-hoops-problems/id1831444430?i=1000763291931

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/


    TikTok:

    https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod


    #IReallyHoopPodcast #NBAPodcast #KenyanBasketball #BasketballKenya #BasketballKE #NBA #NBADebate #BamAdebayo #BAL6 #NairobiCityThunder #KNBL #AfricanBasketball #SportsMedia

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Nderitu (NBA Kenya): Rain @ Nyayo Indoor Gym!, Nairobi City Thunder, BAL 6, KBF’s Problems | Ep. 22
    Mar 15 2026
    Welcome back! In Episode 22 of the I Really Hoop Podcast, Javan is joined once again by Top Kenyan basketball analyst and reporter, Nderitu (NBA Kenya) for a deep and honest conversation about the current state of basketball in Kenya.Chapters00:00 Intro Song ("BASELINE" prod. by Haven Music)00:14 Welcome back!00:21 No. 1 Kenyan Basketball Podcast (Ask Google, ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.)00:37 Welcoming Nderitu (Returning Guest)00:46: Episode 21 with him is the most viewed episode01:01: Heavy Nairobi Rains (6 March 2026), Floods02:32 Nyayo Indoor Basketball Gymnasium's embarrassing flooding situation03:45 A cat or rat was spotted07:32 Some fans weren't refunded09:18 Nyayo has had no major upgrade since the 1980's12:38 SHocking Crowd Management at Nyayo Indoor Gym14:00 Risks of wet floor to players and fans16:07 Nyayo should stop hosting basketball games till renovation16:20 Bad sanitation at Nyayo (Washorooms, no water, stench)18:00 Why the BAL put Black & White posts for the Road to BAL in Kasarani Indoor Arena18:54 Kenya got lucky to host the Road to BAL 2025 and the WBLA Qualifiers 101521:23 Positioning of washrooms at Nyayo (Too Open)21:48 Stench from washrooms going to the gymnasium22:31 Clean up the venues, ya'll!24:00 Move games to Kasarani, provide transport at a fee24:45 Fauly, old scoreboards25:40 Javan says he isn't a strong Nairobi City Thunder Fan25:49 NCT need competition26:18 More Overcrowding issues at Nyayo Indoor Gym29:08 What's the deal between Stadia Management and the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF)?29:46 The 2026 Basketball AFrica League (BAL) Season 6 & NCT's Preparation30:09 Nairobi City Thunder's New Signings30:21 Ater Majok moved from NCT to Dar City and now Dakar30:38 Albert Odero moved from NCT to Tigers Rwanda now back to NCT30:52 NCT's frontcourt31:20 WIll NCT be better or worse this upcoming BAL 6?32:47 New BAL Conferences Format32:20 NCT's limited Preparation Time35:07 Does NCT have yesmen?36:25 NCT fear losing a single game at the Kenya National Basketball League38:28 Other teams' BAL rosters40:16 Kalahari COnference is in SOuth Africa while the Sahara COnference is in Morocco20:53 Derrick Ogechi can help NCT since he's now in the roster40:49 Ogechi's Highlight Reel41:51 Ogechi not playing at BAL 542:10 NCT's tough BAL 6 Fixtures46:17 What will NCT do about the KNBL game fixtures during BAL 6?50:29 KBF officials overstaying office52:00 KBFs failed deal with Fireflies COmpany52:21 KBF's Greed by selling tickets to a full Nyayo Indoor Gym54:57 We just want change coz we love basketball55:16 Nderitu responds to fan who he had an argument with on last episode's comments on Instagram59:26 Nderitu has tough skin01:00:41 Come at Nderitu with a missile, you'll get a nuclear warhead back01:01:20 Nderitu will keep exposing the mismanagement in Kenyan Basketball01:02:05 Co-host Edu was unavailable for this episode01:02:14 Outro (Like, Share, Subscribe)Drop your thoughts below.🎙 HostJavan (Basketball Twin) https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie👤 GuestDennis Nderitu (NBA Kenya) https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@nbakenya⁩ Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.YouTube: https://youtu.be/VpneZ8Am2dc?si=3Tu6A3-rI-eonbVfSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2TQSX4K44HQTyWtDRXVOlW?si=jA1fyFdHRiqdGS9ACc0qYAApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/nderitu-nba-kenya-rain-nyayo-indoor-gym-nairobi-city/id1831444430?i=1000755402987All our Links (LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppodInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/#IReallyHoopPodcast #NBAPodcast #KenyanBasketball #BasketballKenya #BasketballKE #KenyaMorans #KBF #NBAKenya #AfricanBasketball #BasketballAfricaLeague #BAL #BAL6 #NairobiCityThunder #KNBL #SportsMedia #DennisNderitu
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Dennis Nderitu (NBA Kenya): Accountability, KBF Controversy, The State of Kenyan Basketball | Ep. 21
    Mar 1 2026
    In Episode 21, we sit down with Dennis Nderitu, founder of NBA Kenya, basketball analyst, reporter, and one of the most outspoken voices in Kenyan basketball media. This is one of the most honest and unfiltered conversations we have had on the platform. The episode explores standards, transparency, governance, and the future of basketball journalism in Kenya.Episode Chapters:00:00 Episode 20 Kickoff00:26 Meet Dennis Nderitu01:27 Subscribe And Support01:50 Why He Loves Basketball05:54 Why Basketball Over Football07:32 NBA Live & 2K Era + Favorite Players08:26 Lakers Fandom & Luka Trade11:12 Starting the NBA Kenya Brand17:49 NBA Kenya Name Explained20:01 Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Friction & Accountability24:00 KBF Elections & Governance Issues26:24 Banned From KNBL Playoff Game at Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium29:21 Player Confrontations During Games31:25 Clearing the Air31:57 Criticism Is Part of Sport34:28 Receipts, Stats & Film36:11 Calling Out the Ban37:46 Negativity vs Positive Coverage39:52 Why I Left Woopy (Okapi) Sport42:01 Kenyan Basketball Media Growth43:38 Foul and One Podcast Beef Explained45:57 Madina Okot Visa Story Breakdown49:23 KBF Broadcast Fees53:44 KNBL League Start Date Confusion57:20 Showing Up to Games Anyway58:24 Hosting BAL (Road to BAL) & FIBA Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA)58:55 Final Thoughts on Progress01:00:00 Ticket Price Controversy01:00:51 Bad Venue Experience01:01:18 Kenya Hosts Qualifiers01:02:09 Thunder Praise and Critique01:03:13 BAL Struggles and Heartbreak01:04:27 Morans Sacrificed Claim01:06:14 Stadium Canopy and Arenas01:07:25 BAL Franchise Buy In01:08:45 Building Basketball Culture01:09:21 Franchise Format Roadblocks01:10:00 League Pressure and Sabotage01:10:28 When Franchises Could Happen01:10:38 Thunder and Arena Money01:11:21 NBA Africa Vision01:12:17 Why the Creator Went Quiet01:13:44 IShowSpeed Basketball Fumble01:15:43 Gen Z Goliath Height Debate01:16:51 Wrap Up and ShoutoutsVideo on Nderitu being denied access to the Nyayo Stadium Basketball Gymnasiumhttps://youtu.be/9XFpSxn7mj0?si=99W0oJ2OTDuU_fVk Discussion Questions: - Is criticism necessary for growth in Kenyan basketball? - Should federations be held more accountable? - What is the future of independent sports media in Kenya?listen_and_follow:YouTube: https://youtu.be/PTLOk4LnduQ?si=_vISiW6o9anAIGyGSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5BxVdZG3Y8sSgT5WqL4TjN?si=l6DXyV96S0mcfRIH_SOp_wApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/dennis-nderitu-nba-kenya-accountability-kbf-controversy/id1831444430?i=1000752346315All our links( LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppodsocial_media: podcast_instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/hosts: javan: instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie twitter_x: https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalie linktree: https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie edu: instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edmundi_o/guest: name: "Dennis Nderitu (NBA Kenya)" youtube_channels: - https://www.youtube.com/@nbakenya - https://www.youtube.com/@nderitubasketball - https://www.youtube.com/@nderitubasketballextra hosted_by: - Javan (Basketball Twin) - Edu (Mini LeBron)
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Kenyan Basketball Legend & Nairobi City Thunder Player Ariel Okall Koranga shares his story | Ep. 20
    Feb 19 2026
    This is a very special episode of the I Really Hoop Podcast.In Episode 21, we sit down with Kenyan basketball veteran Ariel Okal Koranga, widely known as The Doctor and The Journeyman. A 22-season professional, former Kenya national basketball team (Kenya Morans) icon, and current leader at Nairobi City Thunder, Ariel shares an extraordinary career that has spanned continents, championships, and defining moments in Kenyan basketball history.From Nakuru to Mogadishu.From Algeria to Oman.From domestic leagues to continental silver medals.This is insider history from a player who lived it.His 2014 call-up to the Kenya MoransThe 2019 Africa silver medal runBeating continental powerhouses like Egypt, Nigeria, Tunisia & AngolaQualifying for FIBA AfroBasket after 28 yearsWhat that achievement meant for Kenyan basketballMeeting the President and the national recognition that followedThe professionalism gap between Kenyan leagues and overseas basketballThe evolution of team chemistry — Thunder vs MoransNBA debates: GOAT talk, all-time starting fives & the future of the leagueKenya’s next NBA/WNBA hopefulsBAL expansion possibilities and structural growthThe Kenya Basketball Federation’s controversial Fireflies partnershipThis episode is both reflection and roadmap — history and future in one conversation.00:00 Welcome + Introducing Ariel “The Doctor”01:39 22 Seasons In: Growing Up in Nakuru03:28 Longevity, Injuries & Love for the Game04:47 Kenya vs Overseas Professionalism08:07 The Journeyman Years Across Africa10:48 Family Legacy & NCAA Milestone12:00 First Kenya Morans Call-Up14:03 2019 Africa Silver Medal Run19:50 AfroBasket Qualification Explained20:58 Viral Sports Debate & Media Moments25:45 Favorite Morans Teammates29:51 Thunder vs Morans Chemistry33:15 Today’s NBA Favorites37:21 GOAT Debate40:21 Is Steph Top 10?43:47 KD, Wemby & Europe’s Rise45:42 All-Star Weekend Review53:19 Kenya’s Next NBA/WNBA Prospects57:13 BAL Franchise Proposal59:45 Federation & Sponsorship Debate01:04:00 Closing Thoughts💬 Drop your GOAT in the comments.Can Kenya return to the AfroBasket podium?👍 Like the video💬 Comment your thoughts🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth basketball conversations📲 Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram & all podcast platformFollow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.YouTube: https://youtu.be/M8nuZTwTFr0?si=nV_ZmY-V0GrHpvwWSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/74I60VIkgzfOKUWF54oqUk?si=ekq8zAAQSSeWF9nUGqtLDwApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/kenyan-basketball-legend-nairobi-city-thunder-player/id1831444430?i=1000750554170All our Links (LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppodInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/HostsJavan⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalieX/Twitter: https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalieAll my links(LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_EkhalieEduhttps://www.instagram.com/edmundi_o/Guesthttps://www.instagram.com/ariel_okall/Shot by https://www.instagram.com/_.petter_wDirected, produced and edited by, https://www.instagram.com/#IReallyHoopPodcast #IReallyHoopPodcast #KenyaMorans #NairobiCityThunder #AfricanBasketball #LeBronJames #BasketballKE #ArielOkall #KenyanBasketball
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Anthony Black CRAZY Dunk, New NBA All-Star Format, Jordan's unjustified $20M, Africa Hoops | Ep. 19
    Feb 4 2026
    Welcome to the 19th episode of the I Really Hoop Podcast. In this episode, we break down the biggest basketball conversations shaping the NBA, African basketball, and the global game. From viral on-court moments and trade deadline speculation to All-Star Weekend changes and the rapid rise of basketball in Kenya and across Africa, this episode delivers analysis, debate, and context. Topics Discussed: - Viral NBA dunk that shook the Memphis Grizzlies bench - Ja Morant trade rumors and potential Miami Heat links - Giannis Antetokounmpo, fan backlash, and all-time NBA ranking debates - February NBA trade deadline and key players to watch - Golden State Warriors’ decline and dynasty discussions - New NBA All-Star Game format: Team USA vs Team World - Dunk Contest, Three-Point Contest, Rising Stars & All-Star Weekend preview - NBA international expansion and the possibility of games in Africa - Nairobi City Thunder’s dominance and the future of Kenyan basketball - Kenya National Basketball League (KNBL) second-leg expectations - NCAA basketball, March Madness buildup, and NBA draft prospects - Kenyan WNBA prospect Medina Okot and women’s basketball growth - FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers and 3x3 basketball development - Off-court NBA drama, contracts, media deals, and player reputations - Rugby, global sports growth, and basketball’s rise in Kenya and Africa Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:32 Basketball Highlights and Updates01:31 Speed’s Visit to Kenya02:22 NBA Player Performances and Trades08:11 All-Star Weekend and Format Changes10:38 Trade Deadline Speculation13:05 Dunk Contest and Three-Point Contest14:37 Skills Challenge and Rising Stars15:23 Celebrity Game Highlights17:21 International NBA Games20:26 Kenya National Basketball League22:09 NCAA College Basketball24:07 FIBA Basketball World Cup25:57 NBA Off-Court Drama28:48 Michael Jordan’s $20 Million Interview30:34 Wrap-Up and Future Plans Call to Action: Like, comment, share, and subscribe for more NBA debates, African basketball coverage, and global hoops discussions. Follow us on all major podcast platforms and social media.listen_and_follow: podcast_platforms: - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2EXlOhUFCXeHV4HnRV9B8o?si=6b220cc586474dfb - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/anthony-black-crazy-dunk-new-nba-all-star-format-jordans/id1831444430?i=1000748235511 - YouTube: https://youtu.be/elszq2LqkyQ?si=xjnAWuBAt9QeHwn- linktree: - All Links: https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppodsocial_media: instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/ tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod twitter_x: https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iReallyHoopPodhost: name: "Javan Okwayo Ekhalie" links: linktree: https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie twitter_x: https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalie youtube: https://youtube.com/@BasketballTwin snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/javan_ekhalie facebook: https://www.facebook.com/javan.o.ekhalie tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@javan_o_ekhalie threads: https://www.threads.com/@javan_o_ekhalie linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javan-o-ekhalie spotify_profile: https://open.spotify.com/user/pldbiridkc0c5cvcnsf0jniua?si=ff276253845643cf sportsbiz_kenya: https://sportsbiz.co.ke/author/javan-ekhalie9outlook-com/production: Shot, directed, produced and edited by, Javan Okwayo Ekhalie https://www.youtube.com/@Javan.360/featured#IReallyHoopPodcast#NBAPodcast#NBA#NBAAllStar#NBATrades#JaMorant#GiannisAntetokounmpo#AfricanBasketball#KenyanBasketball#BasketballPodcast
    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • 2026! New Year, New NBA Drama: Ja Morant, Trae Young, Giannis' Dunk, Betting | Ep.18
    Jan 21 2026

    Welcome back to the I Really Hoop Podcast, Kenya’s number one basketball podcast, as we officially kick off 2026 with high-energy NBA discussions and bold opinions.


    --------------------------------------------------


    In this episode, we break down some of the biggest talking points early in the NBA year.


    Topics discussed include:


    Ja Morant’s Future in Memphis

    An in-depth conversation on Ja Morant’s uncertain future with the Grizzlies and the broader implications for the franchise.


    Trae Young to Washington

    A breakdown of Trae Young’s shocking move to the Washington Wizards and how it reshapes team dynamics and expectations.


    Respect and Unwritten Rules

    A debate around respect in the NBA, unwritten rules, and how modern players are challenging traditional norms.


    Giannis Antetokounmpo Controversy

    Discussion around Giannis’ late-game dunk, league-wide reactions, and what it says about competition in today’s NBA.


    All-Star Weekend and League Culture

    Thoughts on All-Star Weekend, player relationships, and the evolving culture of the league.


    Betting and Fan Conversations

    How sports betting continues to influence fan discourse and perceptions around basketball.


    --------------------------------------------------


    This episode blends serious basketball analysis with raw fan perspectives, humor, and honest conversations, offering a clear look at where the NBA is headed in 2026.


    If you enjoy basketball debates, league drama, and unfiltered discussions, this episode is for you.


    --------------------------------------------------


    Episode Chapters:


    00:00 Welcome to the I Really Hoop Podcast

    00:23 New Year Excitement and Season Kickoff

    01:34 Podcast Announcements and Subscriber Goals

    02:04 NBA Updates and Player Movements

    03:43 Ja Morant’s Future and Team Dynamics

    06:27 All-Star Weekend and Player Relationships

    08:28 Player Transfers and Team Dynamics

    08:40 Washington Wizards’ Potential

    09:43 Trae Young’s Reputation

    11:02 Giannis and the Milwaukee Bucks

    12:01 Unwritten Rules in Basketball

    14:28 Betting in Sports


    --------------------------------------------------


    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to the I Really Hoop Podcast on:


    YouTube:

    https://youtu.be/qkgiC61wEKU?si=RDabj0WLBlwEIPUr

    Spotify:

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/0erP2LL73mpCfhFMtfffRD?si=8e852024e4ab4909


    Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/2026-new-year-new-nba-drama-ja-morant-trae-young-giannis/id1831444430?i=1000745998209


    --------------------------------------------------


    All Podcast Links:

    https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppod


    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/


    TikTok:

    https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod


    X (Twitter):

    https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_


    Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/iReallyHoopPod


    --------------------------------------------------


    Host:


    Javan O. Ekhalie


    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie


    X (Twitter):

    https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalie


    Linktree:

    https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie


    YouTube:

    https://youtube.com/@BasketballTwin


    Snapchat:

    https://www.snapchat.com/add/javan_ekhalie


    Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/javan.o.ekhalie


    TikTok:

    https://tiktok.com/@javan_o_ekhalie


    Threads:

    https://www.threads.com/@javan_o_ekhalie


    LinkedIn:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/javan-o-ekhalie


    Spotify:

    https://open.spotify.com/user/pldbiridkc0c5cvcnsf0jniua


    SportsBiz Kenya:

    https://sportsbiz.co.ke/author/javan-ekhalie9outlook-com/


    --------------------------------------------------


    Shot and directed by Tim:

    https://www.instagram.com/user_is_tim/


    Produced and edited by Javan Okwayo Ekhalie


    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • Nairobi City Thunder Qualify for the BAL 2026, NBA Recap, Fights, OKC's Dominance + More | Ep.17
    Dec 13 2025

    Welcome back to I Really Hoop Podcast! In Episode 17, we’re bringing you the latest from the NBA, the FBA, and basketball developments across Kenya and Africa. From jaw-dropping league drama to incredible local achievements, this episode has it all!

    In this episode, we discuss:
    🏀 Ja Morant’s on-court controversies and clashes
    🏀 Zach LaVine fan interactions and league accountability
    🏀 Pistons’ surprising streaks and Detroit’s turnaround
    🏀 OKC Thunder’s rise and Warriors’ dynasty challenges
    🏀 Giannis, Luka, and other NBA superstar performances
    🏀 FIBA Road to BAL 2026 – Nairobi City Thunder’s qualification
    🏀 Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) qualifiers and Kenya’s representation
    🏀 Insight into basketball growth, competition, and fan passion

    We also share our thoughts on basketball culture, fan energy, and the future of Kenyan basketball in major continental tournaments.

    Chapters:
    00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
    00:31 Celebrating Past Successes
    00:59 Future Plans and Collaborations
    01:16 Encouraging Subscriptions
    01:45 Weekly Catch-Up and League Drama
    02:10 The Importance of Competition in Basketball
    03:35 Fan Reactions and Player Performances
    04:35 NBA Highlights and Player Drama
    07:43 Team Performances and Standings
    09:32 The End of the Warriors Dynasty
    10:47 LeBron's Longevity and Legacy
    11:38 Luka Doncic: The New Lakers' Main Guy
    11:57 Nico Harrisson Firing Drama
    14:36 Nairobi City Thunder Qualify for the BAL 2026, Kenya's Basketball Achievements
    16:57 Women's Basketball League Africa (WBLA) Qualifiers 2025
    17:44 FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027
    18:31 Wrapping Up

    Stay tuned as we bring more guests, games, and exclusive coverage from the FBA and BAL!

    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.

    YouTube: https://youtu.be/mJfaMbRN0FQ?si=pETnRizD5UBe6h94

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0dhEI1JvHoO23zPw7tg8o4?si=a88a500edcbb4903

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/nairobi-city-thunder-qualify-for-the-bal-2026-nba/id1831444430?i=1000741102147

    All our Links (LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppod

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/

    TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod

    X/Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/iReallyHoopPod⁠

    Hosts
    Javan
    ⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie


    All my links(LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie


    Shot and directed by Tim (https://www.instagram.com/user_is_tim/)
    Produced and edited by me, Javan Okwayo Ekhalie (@javan.360)

    #Basketball #NBA #FBA #BAL2026 #NairobiCityThunder #JaMorant #GiannisAntetokounmpo #LeBronJames #BasketballKenya #IRHPodcast

    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ireallyhooppodcast⁠

    Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/15YouQrlzXkXLiK4GZSlW8

    Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-really-hoop-podcast/id1831444430

    YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO_eka8YBZ7hRZG4jfuDHWVHL3jFOdcNz&si=q9qsoW56hbPX4Xfd

    RSS: ⁠https://rss.com/podcasts/i-really-hoop-podcast/

    Soundcloud: ⁠https://soundcloud.com/i-really-hoop-podcast

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/

    TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod

    X/Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_



    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
  • Derrick Ogechi: From Minnesota to Nairobi City Thunder The Rise of a Kenyan-American Star | Ep.16
    Dec 4 2025

    In this landmark 16th episode of The I Really Hoop Podcast, Javan and co-host Edu welcome their first-ever guest, the exceptional Derrick Ogechi — Nairobi City Thunder guard, Kenya National Basketball Team (Kenya Morans) player, and one of the most accomplished Kenyan-American athletes representing the nation today.

    Derrick walks us through his basketball journey from growing up in Minnesota, beginning with karate, transitioning into competitive basketball in high school, playing across NAIA and NCAA Division II, earning two university degrees, and eventually launching his professional career in Spain before joining Nairobi City Thunder, the reigning back-to-back unbeaten Kenyan National Basketball League champions.

    This conversation offers one of the most in-depth insights into the life and mindset of a modern Kenyan basketball professional, making it essential viewing for athletes, fans, and anyone passionate about the growth of African basketball.

    If you love basketball, Kenyan sports, or inspiring athlete stories — this episode is for you! Thanks for watching!

    Chapters
    00:00 Welcome and Introduction
    00:18 Meet Derek Ogechi
    02:39 Derrick's Basketball Journey
    04:45 Comparing Basketball in Kenya and the US
    06:38 The Future of Basketball in Kenya
    09:07 Influence of Kobe Bryant
    11:40 Favorite Teams and Players
    14:48 Discovering Basketball as a Career
    15:36 Balancing Basketball and Social Media
    16:00 Professional Basketball in Kenya
    18:56 Playing in Europe and Making History
    20:52 Joining the Kenyan National Basketball Team (Kenya Morans)
    24:12 Comparing Local and National Teams
    27:45 Future of Kenyan Players in the NBA
    29:42 Challenges in the Basketball Africa League
    31:49 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ireallyhooppodcast

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/48mPPoozRFFS8LFb7qeUMl?si=1OVvcuZqRa-yNHAnLeQjmw

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/derrick-ogechi-from-minnesota-to-nairobi-city-thunder/id1831444430?i=1000739669359

    All our Links (LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/ireallyhooppod

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/

    TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod

    X/Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_

    Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/iReallyHoopPod⁠

    Hosts
    Javan
    ⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/javan_o_ekhalie

    X/Twitter: https://www.x.com/javan_o_ekhalie

    All my links(LinkTree): https://linktr.ee/Javan_O_Ekhalie

    Edu
    https://www.instagram.com/edmundi_o/

    Derrick Ogechi
    https://www.instagram.com/derrick_ogechi


    Shot and directed by Tim (https://www.instagram.com/user_is_tim/)
    Produced and edited by me, Javan Okwayo Ekhalie (

    Follow, like, comment, share, and subscribe to us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all available podcast platforms, social media pages, as well as the co-host's social media pages.

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ireallyhooppodcast⁠

    Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/15YouQrlzXkXLiK4GZSlW8

    Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-really-hoop-podcast/id1831444430

    YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO_eka8YBZ7hRZG4jfuDHWVHL3jFOdcNz&si=q9qsoW56hbPX4Xfd

    RSS: ⁠https://rss.com/podcasts/i-really-hoop-podcast/

    Soundcloud: ⁠https://soundcloud.com/i-really-hoop-podcast

    Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ireallyhooppod/

    TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ireallyhooppod

    X/Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/ireallyhooppod_



    Show More Show Less
    35 mins