Norkam Jr Basketball’s Rise: How TRU Students Can Help Build a Dynasty
By: Sanbir Atwal, February, 13th, 2026
The Norkam Saints have done it again. The team captured the annual Fulton Cup tournament for the second consecutive year and have secured their place at the Okanagan tournament, where they will compete for a chance to advance to the provincial tournament.
A powerhouse in Junior basketball, the Saints have set their goal on overcoming the obstacle that stopped them last season, falling just short of a provincial berth.
Kamsport interviewed Kaashi Puni (Captain), Rajan Sohal (Head Coach), and Tim Unaegbu (Community Member) to gain insight into the team’s success, their mindset heading into the next stage, and how TRU students can help create a more energetic and supportive atmosphere at basketball games in Kamloops. Puni was asked by Kamsports, “How does it feel to make Okanagans again and what will be the difference this year that pushes your team to the provincial tournament?”
“This year I think the difference is we’re not going to think this is easy, going to provs. We’re going to work through everything, face plenty of adversity, and we’re going to show everyone why we are a top team in this Okanagan,” said Puni.
The home court atmosphere in Kamloops has been on the rise, with more students coming out to support their teams. Puni shared his thoughts on the growing energy in the gym.
“Oh my god, it’s amazing. I love when Luca brings his crowd out because I can hear those guys yelling the whole time and talking trash to the other team,” said Puni.
He also emphasized how impactful TRU student support could be for the Saints.
“That would be amazing if those guys came out. They go all out, and you can hear them at TRU games from the adult section screaming,” said Puni.
Kamsports was also able to connect with head coach Sohal to arrange an interview. Coach Sohal, a current TRU student pursuing his history degree, has been part of several strong Junior boys basketball teams in the past.
“This year’s group, I think they are more skilled just at basketball and they don’t rely on their athleticism as much as past groups,” Sohal explained.
Although the Norkam Junior boys have consistently been competitive, they have yet to make an appearance at the provincial tournament.
“The provincial tournament has been a goal for me, and these guys are more ready for Okanagans than any team we have had and the most deserving,” said Sohal.
As a TRU student himself, Sohal offered thoughtful ideas on how to increase student engagement and create a stronger game atmosphere.
“We could reach out through social media, both players and coaches, and we could organize trips up to TRU on a weekday or weekend, or even TRU’s opening weekend barbeque, with our Norkam gear on to spread the word,” said coach Sohal.
Kamsports was also fortunate to connect with popular basketball community member Tim Unaegbu to hear his perspective on why TRU students currently don’t attend games and how their support could strengthen basketball culture in Kamloops.
“First of all, I don’t think they know about it. The city isn’t spreading the news, and maybe TRU students don’t know their schedules. There is a disconnect between high school and university,” said Unaegbu.
When asked if TRU students could help create a stronger basketball culture in Kamloops, Unaegbu was enthusiastic.
“One thousand percent. Kids look up to players at the next level no matter what. If TRU players or students come to support people they have coached or know, it would help fix that gap between high school and TRU, and that would make the community stronger,” said Unaegbu.
