The City Oilers basketball team is set for a significant change as Andrew Tendo steps up to the role of head coach in the wake of Mandy Juruni’s departure to join Kepler University in Rwanda,. Juruni, known for leading the team to nine consecutive championships, leaves behind big shoes to fill, but players express confidence in Tendo’s ability to take on the challenge.
Tendo, a former player who captained City Oilers before transitioning to become Juruni’s assistant in 2016, was officially announced as the new head coach on December 22. Players, including former Most Valuable Player (MVP) Jimmy Enabu, believe that Tendo’s familiarity with the team since its inception makes him the ideal candidate for the position.
Enabu notes, “I think Tendo is the best replacement for Mandy. We shall miss coach Mandy and what he brought to the team, but I believe it will be a smooth transition because Tendo has been with the team since it started.”
Reigning NBL MVP Titus Lual echoes this sentiment, expressing confidence that not much will change under Tendo’s leadership. Lual emphasizes Tendo’s extensive experience with the team, understanding of the players, and familiarity with the system.
Tendo’s coaching style, known for inspiration and high demands, has been observed by the players even during his time as an assistant coach. Guard Fayed Baale describes Tendo as “very inspiring and demanding,” emphasizing his commitment to extracting the best from each player. Baale believes in Tendo’s tactical acumen and expresses confidence in his ability to lead the team to success.
As Tendo takes on the head coaching role, his first challenge will be to maintain the team’s winning streak, with the upcoming National Basketball League (NBL) season kicking off on January 26. Ben Komakech will support Tendo in his new role as assistant coach, marking the beginning of his top-flight coaching career.
The players look forward to the continuation of the team’s success under Tendo’s leadership, recognizing his integral role in the team’s achievements since 2013.
