Mercy Wanyama emphasizes teamwork

Mercy Wanyama in action for Kenya (COURTESY PHOTO)

ZONE V QUALIFIERS Mercy Wanyama emphasizes teamwork

Peter Tabu • 22:05 - 17.02.2023

Wanyama is also keen to highlight how Mariga, an ex-international and Inter Milan star, and Victor, who made his name at Tottenham in the English Premier League, have positively influenced her career.

She boasts of experience, having featured in established basketball competitions worldwide.

She is also lucky enough to have MLS star Victor Wanyama and 2010 UEFA Champions League winner Mcdonald Mariga as mentors.

But Kenya Lionesses star Mercy Wanyama, Victor and Mariga's younger sibling, stresses that teamwork is as essential as the talent for achieving results.

"It is not all about being a top scorer or being selfish. You have to make your teammate look good, pick the rebounds," she stated.

Interestingly, Wanyama, currently on the books of AD Cortegada LF2 in Spain, says a simple high five (a celebration gimmick in which players share a tap-like handshake in the air after a score during the game) is as vital as the score itself.

"High-five one of your teammates and let them know they are doing a good job, push as a team, and make each other look good on the court. If you apply that in basketball, that is how you win."

Wanyama adds that playing professional basketball has helped her learn much on and off the court.

In return, she tries to help and groom the upcoming talent.

"My game has evolved. I'm not the same person from three years ago. My movement and timing are better, so my basketball IQ is now great."

"The game in Kenya is growing; many of us are now turning pro with the help of our coaches. We also make time and teach the young ones how they can make it."

The Kenya National women's basketball team's financial troubles in the past are well documented, but Wanyama says the situation has changed with more Government support coming through.

"We have gone through a lot as a national team, but not anymore; the Government is more focused on sports and has come in strong, right now they're giving us the support, so I am grateful," She added.

Wanyama is also keen to highlight how Mariga, an ex-international and Inter Milan star, and Victor, who made his name at Tottenham in the English Premier League, have positively influenced her career.

"They have pushed me and taught me what to expect as a professional, plus the mental and physical aspect of the game as an African based in Europe."

As the curtains of FIBA Zone V Afrobasket qualifiers in Kampala draw closer, Wanyama says it's been a competitive tournament but highlights that the hosts' speed, especially with the guards, stands out.

"So far, the tournament has been competitive, I am taking it each game at a time, giving each team the respect they deserve, but Uganda's guards and the speed at which they operate is what I've noticed."

Wanyama might not have been a keen follower of the Harambee Stars, more so after his brother Victor unceremoniously retired, but she is now after he came out of retirement.

"Victor is one of the best midfielders with an open mind; I know he is my brother, but truth be told, he is a good player. I trust him, and he will make a huge difference."

Wanyama is now focused on guiding the Kenya Lionesses to a good finish at the FIBA Zone V Afrobasket Women Qualifiers as she ponders her next move when her contract in Spain expires.

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