Paris 2024: Kenya's Adhiambo relishes debut in Olympics

Malkia Strikers coach Japheth Munala has singled out Pamela Adhiambo as one of the best players for the Kenyan national women’s volleyball team at the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Though the African giants have already lost their two Group B matches in straight sets against Brazil (25-14, 25-13, 25-12) and Poland (25-14, 25-17, 25-15), the Kenya Pipeline outside hitter has literally been a joy to watch thanks to her flexibility and hard-hitting spikes.

The 2021/2022 Kenya Volleyball Federation National League player of the season is currently Kenya's top scorer in the tournament after bagging a combined 21 points against powerhouses Brazil (7 points) and Poland (14 points) on her Olympics debut.

She combined well with Veronica Adhiambo, who garnered 13 points to frustrate the Women’s Nations League bronze medallists at South Paris Arena on Wednesday night.

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According to Munala,  Adhiambo has perfectly fit into the shoes of Sharon Chepchumba, who is still recovering from a knee injury. The KCB star is likely to face a late fitness test ahead of their final Group match against Japan tomorrow.

“We are really pleased with Pamela’s performance so far. Apart from being our top scorer in the two matches, she has just been phenomenal. She played really well against Poland and if she continues like this, she is destined for greatness,” Munala told Standard Sports.

“She was a bit nervous and played with some pressure in the first game, but right now she has settled and looks more dangerous on the court."

“I expect her to maintain the tempo and hopefully end her Olympic campaign on a high note against Japan. With her great form, it is difficult to replace her with Chumba whom they share the same position.”

On her side, Pamela Adhiambo said: “The set scores are there for everyone to see. I think we are improving game after game, and I’m glad to have emerged as the top scorer again. Our focus now shifts to the Japan match.”

Though Munala hinted at retaining the squad that played against Poland tomorrow, he revealed that Chepchumba will have to undergo a late fitness test to determine if she is fit to make her Olympic debut.

“We will see how Chumba responds to training before making the final decision. She is likely to play against Japan, but that’s only if the doctor okays her and she proves herself in training,” said Munala.

Reflecting on Wednesday’s performance against Poland, the tactician said: “Though we didn’t win a set, I’m proud of the team’s performance. The girls played as per instructions based on how we had watched and analysed Poland’s videos.”