21-Year-Old Made 30 Appearances for FC Tulsa in 2021
With several injuries to the Tulsa midfield throughout last season, Kibato proved to be a vital piece after coming over on a full season loan from Rio Grande Valley FC, securing the team’s Newcomer of the Year award. The box-to-box midfielder had two goals and one assist in his second full season as a professional while playing nearly 1,500 minutes for FC Tulsa.
Both goals from Kibato came in front of the home fans at ONEOK Field in two of the club’s biggest wins last season. He opened his Tulsa account with a headed goal following a line-breaking run in what ultimately became a 3-2 victory over Louisville City FC. Less than a month later, Kibato put the capper on a late break away in stoppage time to stamp a 3-1 win over Birmingham Legion FC.
“Last year was a great experience,” said Kibato. “I loved Tulsa, the team and the amazing fans. I’m grateful to be back, and I’m ready for more. Let’s get this city the Championship.”
Kibato adds to the growing core of FC Tulsa returners in 2022, as the club continues the trend of retaining much of its top talent. The 2022 midfield now consists of Kibato, Eric Bird and Lebo Moloto as seven players have now been announced to next year’s roster.
2022 FC Tulsa Roster
Keepers: Sean Lewis
Defenders: Bradley Bourgeois, Jorge Corrales
Midfielders: Eric Bird, Kembo Kibato, Lebo Moloto
Forwards: Darío Suárez
