Award winner Aden dreams of stopping City Oilers streak

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Speaking to Daily Monitor after being named the best basketball player for May after an outstanding performance that saw him average 20 points as KIU Titans won four games in row to ascend into second position on the table, Aden said that the main focus is to stop City Oilers’ dominance

Kampala International University (KIU) Titans shooting guard Faisal Aden Is puzzled at how one team can win seven consecutive titles yet he looks at that streak as a motivation.

Speaking to Daily Monitor after being named the best basketball player for May after an outstanding performance that saw him average 20 points as KIU Titans won four games in row to ascend into second position on the table, Aden said that the main focus is to stop City Oilers’ dominance

“City Oilers have been winning for seven years in a row but I think this time with most leagues not playing, they have to face a lot of talent that is playing in Uganda.

“So, we shall set a really big challenge for them. I am looking forward to beating the City Oilers. I have actually wondered how a team could win seven championships in a row. I am trying to process how that is possible. They must be doing something right but we are looking forward to taking this championship away from them,” he said.

Cash prize
He beat Hope Akello of JKL Lady Dolphins and Samuel Ajaka of Ndejje Angels to win the monthly accolade that comes with a cash prize.

The Somali professional basketball player, who has had a smooth run on his debut says he was excited.

“It is a special award. Anytime you get recognised for your achievement and hard work, it is always great. It just means that the hard work is paying off and it means the team is doing well. I don’t think you guys would give awards to a team that is not playing well. It’s a reflection of the team,” he said of the significance of the accolade.

“It would surprise me if I didn’t get it but I have got a lot of individual awards in my life. But right now I am interested in the team awards. It would be nice to cap it with a team award. That is what I am looking forward to,” he added.

The 32-year-old started his career in the United States with Washington State University in 2010 until 2012 alongside Klay Thompson who is with the Golden State Warriors.

Afterwards, he sustained a couple of injuries which saw him play for teams in Italy, Germany, Middle East, Kenya and Rwanda.

Joy all-over
On the podium, Aden stood alongside hockey sharp shooter Thomas Opio of Wanainchi. Express Fc sensational forward Eric Kambale and Jacob Kiplimo were crowned in absentia.

Opio, who scored 10 goals in four league games, was excited stating that his target is to score 50 goals this season.

“This is the first time I am coming here to pick this award but I am already fired to do even better,” the 2012 Uspa player of the year, said.

Man of the moment Eric Kambale, who has scored eight goals, including a hat-trick against Kyetume, in six games, was missing with sickness.

Express FC chief executive Isaac Mwesigwa said the forward was undergoing treatment with typhoid although a comprehensive medical report was expected later in the week.

“He is not feeling well but he has time to recover ahead of the final four games,” Mwesigwa said.

But he pointed out that the recognition was especially humbling as the rebuilding process just started.

“We can all help make the league competitive and see players go to bigger leagues,” Mwesigwa said.

The monthly awards are supported by Fortebet, Jude Colour Solutions and Canan drinks.

Fortebet Reals Stars Awards
Winners for May, 2021
Football
Eric Kambale (Express)
Basketball
Faisal Aden (KIU Titans)
Athletics
Jacob Kiplimo
Hockey
Thomas Opio (Wanainchi)