Basketball in Africa

An 18-year-old Kenyan rising basketball star is causing ripples in United States and has been tipped by coaches as a future star in the making. Joel Awich, who recently moved to NCAA Division 1 California Polytechnic State University ‘Mustangs’ Big West Conference from Minnesota Tartans, is being looked at as a player with great potential.

The 6-7 forward, and son of former Barclays Eaglets and Kenya national team player Lynette Atieno, is touted as a perfect athlete and a hidden gem by coaches who have seen him in action. Awich star rose high when he joined Minnesota Pump and Run programme that saw him play in Denever, Chicago, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
He averaged 8.7 points per game, registered 13 double digit scores last year and led his previous team Minnesota Titans in rebounding. “Joel is a perfect fit for Cal Poly basketball programme. He is a great student, great person and versatile athlete,” his coach Joe Callero said of the youngster who has received the most improved player honours three times. Awich scored a season high best of 16 points in a 64-57 win over spring Lake Park.