Stephen Domingo's Rapid Rise in African Basketball

San Francisco-born Stephen Domingo has made an extraordinary leap from playing college basketball for the California Golden Bears to becoming a pivotal figure in African club basketball ownership. His journey, though swift, was meticulously planned, leveraging his MBA from UC Berkeley to navigate the business of sports.

The Genesis of Nairobi City Thunder

Domingo, one of the four co-founders of Twende Sports Ltd., played a central role in the rise of the Nairobi City Thunder (NCT), which Twende acquired in 2023. His deep connection to African basketball, rooted in his father's Nigerian heritage, fueled his commitment to the sport's growth in Nairobi.

Strategic Fundraising and Business Acumen

Domingo's strategic approach to fundraising has been instrumental in NCT's success. "We raised multiple fundraising rounds," Domingo explained. "Our first one in 2023 propelled us to win the domestic league, and we've continued to raise capital to sustain our run in the BAL."

The Impact of Tylor Ongwae

Kenyan national team captain Tylor Ongwae has been a cornerstone for NCT. Domingo praised Ongwae's leadership: "Tylor shows that it can be done. He's played a decade in Europe and now helps us reach new heights."

Challenges and Future Aspirations

Despite the challenges of competing in the BAL, Domingo remains optimistic. "The question is: are you able to generate enough revenue to justify continued investment?" he asked. Domingo envisions NCT becoming one of Africa's top teams, both in performance and profitability.

A Model for African Basketball

Domingo hopes NCT's success will inspire other cities to adopt their model, elevating African basketball collectively. "Rising tides raise the level of all ships," he said, emphasizing the potential for widespread growth in the sport.

Conclusion

Stephen Domingo's journey from a college athlete to a BAL team owner underscores his dedication to African basketball. His strategic vision and leadership continue to shape the future of the sport, making NCT a beacon of success and inspiration.