Sports
Nasila living the American dream
US-based former Kenyan basketball star Nasila Achien’ during a recent interview with the Nation in Oklahoma City, USA, where she works. Nasila, who secretly left home on a basketball scholarship, also plays for an American team. She said she is ready and willing to play for the Kenyan national team again. Photos/ PHILIP ONYANGO
Posted Saturday, March 13 2010 at 21:00
In Summary
- She risked her job and family ties but got scholarship that gave her a better life
After playing for her college team, Nasila joined Oklahoma Titans women’s basketball team, which she plays for to date.
“I believe that I am still strong enough and active to lead Kenya to international honours. I will be more than ready to play for my country again when asked to do so,” she said during a recent interview.
On her contacts with the family, Nasila says her mother has since forgiven her for travelling out of the country without informing her and that they are now very good friends.
“I talk to my mother an average of everyday. I have already built her a modern residential house, among many other projects that I have started at home.”
Place in team guaranteed
Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) national chairman Paul Otula and the Nairobi Branch chairman, Ronnie Owino, are upbeat that Nasila is willing to play for the national team again.
“I guarantee her a place [in the national team], to wear the national colours during future international events, if she continues to maintain her top form,” Otula said about Nasila, who is 37 years today.
He aptly pointed out that Cameroon football legend Roger Milla played impressively in the World Cup aged 43.
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