Nairobi City Thunder (NCT) forward Ariel Okall Koranga has been named the winner of the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Ubuntu Trophy.
The award ceremony, held at BK Arena in Kigali, recognized Ariel for his leadership and community impact, particularly his efforts to empower young women through basketball.
In a statement shared on social media, Basketball Africa League congratulated Ariel on earning the prestigious Ubuntu Trophy.
“Congratulations to Ariel Okall Koranga, winner of the UBUNTU Trophy presented by our official community partner, the Qatar Foundation.” The statement said in part.
Ariel was also honored for the impact of his initiative, the Th3 Swish Women Basketball Project, which focuses on empowering young women through basketball, education, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth.
According to the BAL, the project has positively impacted hundreds of young women.
So far, the program has reached more than 300 participants, including members of the deaf basketball community.
Notably, a majority of the participants have since secured professional basketball opportunities, continued their education, or entered employment.
“Through Th3 Swish Women Basketball Project, Ariel has empowered hundreds of young women through basketball, education, mentorship and opportunity, embodying the true spirit of UBUNTU,” BAL posted.
Ariel Okall Career
Ariel Okall is a Kenyan professional basketball player currently playing for Nairobi City Thunder.
“The Doctor” as he is fondly referred to by his teammates and peers, he is a six-time champion and two-time Best Forward award winner in Oman.
He has also won league titles with Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) in Kenya, Al Bashaer in Oman, and Dynamo of Burundi, further highlighting his success across multiple basketball leagues on the continent.
The forward brings extensive experience to the game, having played for several clubs across Africa and the Middle East prior to joining NCT.
Prior to joining NCT, he played for: Ahli Sidab (Oman), Dhofar Club (Oman), Nam Blazers (Uganda), and Chaux Sport (Congo).
Ubuntu BAL Trophy
The Ubuntu trophy is an annual Basketball Africa League award presented to a player who demonstrates leadership, compassion, and commitment to community development.
The voting process involves each BAL team nominating one player for the award, with the final winner determined through fan voting.
Upon winning, the recipient also receives a $10,000 grant, presented in partnership with the Qatar Foundation, to support a charity or community initiative of their choice.
Nairobi City Thunder’s Rise
Nairobi City Thunder continues to make history as the first Kenyan team to qualify for the Basketball Africa League.
The club has also enjoyed success domestically, winning back-to-back Kenya basketball federation premier League titles while remaining unbeaten across multiple seasons.
Beyond sports, NCT is committed to transform the landscape of the sport on the continent and the growth of basketball beyond the borders.
