I&M Bank Limited has announced a KES 10 million investment in Nairobi City Thunder (NCT), strengthening its commitment to the growth of Kenyan sports and youth development.
The partnership will see I&M Bank become the official banking partner of Nairobi City Thunder for the remainder of the 2026 Kenya National Basketball League season, as the club seeks to expand its presence on the continental and global basketball stage.
The agreement runs from May 25, 2026, until the conclusion of the season in September 2026, with an automatic extension if the season goes beyond the agreed period.
I&M Bank Backs Homegrown Sporting Talent
Speaking during the partnership launch, I&M Regional CEO Kihara Maina said the investment reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting local talent and strengthening communities through sport.
“We are proud to stand with Nairobi City Thunder at a time when the club continues to raise the standard of basketball not just in Kenya, but also across the region. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting homegrown excellence, investing in youth, and building meaningful connections with communities through sport,” said Maina.
The funding will support Nairobi City Thunder’s preparations and participation in upcoming competitions, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), by providing resources needed for the club to compete effectively.
Nairobi City Thunder’s Rise on the African Stage
Nairobi City Thunder has emerged as one of Kenya’s leading basketball clubs, becoming the first Kenyan team to qualify for the Basketball Africa League in 2024.
The club repeated the achievement in 2025 while also maintaining dominance in the Kenya National Basketball Federation league, winning back-to-back undefeated campaigns in the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 seasons.
Club Welcomes Investment in Basketball Ecosystem
Nairobi City Thunder CEO and Founder Colin Rasmussen described the partnership as a vote of confidence in the club’s vision and the wider basketball ecosystem.
“When people think about basketball, they see the players. What they don’t always see is the ecosystem around it – creators, businesses, event staff, media professionals, and young entrepreneurs. Partnerships like this help grow that entire ecosystem,” Rasmussen said.
He added that the partnership would provide essential resources to improve the club’s operations and enhance the experience for fans.
Players Motivated by New Partnership
Nairobi City Thunder forward Tom “Bush” Wamukota said the partnership would inspire players to deliver better performances throughout the season.
“This partnership means a lot to us as players because it shows that our work is being recognized at the highest level. Having I&M Bank behind Nairobi City Thunder gives us extra motivation to compete hard, represent the badge well, and make our supporters proud throughout the season,” Wamukota said.
I&M Bank to Receive Jersey Branding Rights
Under the agreement, I&M Bank will receive back-of-jersey branding rights on all Nairobi City Thunder game jerseys, further increasing the bank’s visibility as it supports the continued development of Kenyan basketball.