Derrick Ochieng outlines future plans with Ulinzi Warriors

Kenya Morans protege Derrick Ochieng is already dreaming up a championship and international basketball with former champions Ulinzi Warriors. 

The former Moi Airbase (MAB) utility player has since joined Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) men's league side Warriors, making his debut for the Bernard Mufutu-led side on 11 December jn a league match against Umoja. 

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As he joins a Warriors side currently rebuilding following the exit of some key players before the start of the 2022/23 season, Ochieng believes this is a championship-winning team and he is ready to play his part to see Warriors back on top.

"It was an awesome debut, even though the result went against my team as we lost 60-55. This was my first game since last year when I took a break to study. I was in it to make a statement on my debut, as this was a dream coming true, which I believe I did," offered Ochieng who emerged top scorer for Warriors with 14 points in 27.13 minutes on the floor. 

Ochieng says his performances on his debut has helped him gain a lot of confidence in self and his abilities as well as what he has to offer the team going forward. 

"I am well aware that the team is on a journey to rebuild so we do not expect quick fixes. We are going through the process but I know soon we will be back on top and win the title again.

Top of my targets as a Warrior is to lift the championship and go on to play in the Basketball Africa League (BAL)," the Giants of Africa content creator went on.

Ochieng says the switch from playing for MAB when the team was in the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) league and in the second division to playing in the top tier has been smooth but admits there is more to be learned. 

"MAB was a young team and not as competitive as Warriors is. I was called upon to lead more. As for Warriors, I consider myself a rookie, up against Kenyan internationals which gives me the chance to learn from them and improve my game each day. 

The league is also competitive and more aggressive so I have to adjust and be able to perform consistently at my best as we rebuild. I have, however, received immense support from the players and technical bench and I remain confident we will rise together," Ochieng added. 

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As for his role as a content creator for Giants of Afrca, a youth basketball programme in Africa under the stewardship of Toronto Raptors manager Maasai Ujiri, Ochieng believes the two responsibilities will help make him the best on the court.

"There will be time for everything and none of the two roles takes up time meant for the other. I believe the two will complement and help me in becoming an even better player for Warriors as I strive to be a role model to the African youth as I tell their stories and empower them through the sport," he concluded.