Wheelchair basketball player Kanji reveals targets for upcoming Glasgow Games

As the national wheelchair basketball team intensifies its training at Kasarani ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, Ian Kanji has opened up about his journey, the impact of the sport on his life, and the team’s preparations for upcoming international competitions.

Kanji, a Nairobi resident originally from Githurai 44, has been playing wheelchair basketball for approximately five years, having started around 2021. He currently competes for the Nairobi Wheelchair Basketball Club, which conducts its training sessions at the Nyayo National Stadium Annex.

Reflecting on his athletic career, Kanji revealed his participation in the All Africa Games as his major tournament to date.
He is now training with the national squad in anticipation of the Commonwealth Games.

“It is just a great game,” Kanji said, describing the team’s recent intensity.
“We have been pushing hard and have been in camp for the last two weeks. Our preparations are going perfectly. We are doing what needs to be done because we know we are going to meet the best in the world,” he explained.

Kanji revealed that his inspiration to pursue the sport came from his love for watching the NBA.

Inspiration facets

Due to his physical disability, playing standard basketball was not an option, which prompted him to discover the wheelchair category.

He credits a peer named Ochieng for introducing him to the game during his college years.

The sport has had a profoundly positive impact on his life beyond the court.

“As a person with a disability, it helps me a lot because I can exercise and stay physically fit. It also supports my livelihood considerably,” Kanji added.

From the junior level to global stage

Kanji’s international exposure began early when he represented Kenya in an under-23 tournament in South Africa.

Since then, he has risen through the ranks from junior games to qualifiers for major continental events.

He described the All Africa Games as a tough but valuable experience where the team performed well and improved their rankings.

Looking ahead to the upcoming global competitions, Kanji expressed confidence in the team’s prospects and praised the current support system.

“Our preparations are excellent, and we are getting what we need as players. It is upon us to train hard and push ourselves. We have high expectations and the high spirit that sums up the Kenyan mantra.”

Window of opportunities

Recognising that they will be competing against the best teams globally, Kanji remains motivated by national pride.

“Being there means we have a good name and a good team. We know we are representing 55 million Kenyans, and we want to make them happy with our performance.”

Additionally, he is hopeful the international exposure will open further professional doors, noting, “You never know who is watching.”