Countdown to Tip-Off: New National Basketball League Season Commences January 26
As the anticipation builds, basketball enthusiasts mark the calendar for the commencement of the new National Basketball League (NBL) season, set to tip off on January 26 at the Lugogo Indoor Arena. The opening fixtures promise an exciting clash between last season’s finalists, the KIU Titans, and Namuwongo Blazers in the men’s category.
In keeping with tradition, the newly promoted clubs take center stage as the UPDF Lady Tomahawks face off against the YMCA Lady Hamstars in the women’s category. Simultaneously, Livingstone Basketball Club squares off against JT Lady Jaguars in the men’s category, adding an extra layer of competition to the league’s kickoff.
The women’s category sees a showdown between last season’s finalists, the KIU Rangers, and the JT Lady Jaguars at Lugogo, setting the stage for what promises to be a compelling season.
However, the prelude to the new campaign comes with significant roster changes for the KIU Titans. The team bids farewell to seasoned players who played instrumental roles in last season’s remarkable feats, causing ripples even for the formidable City Oilers. Notable departures include Congolese Internationals Dennis Balugu and Amisi Saidi, along with Joseph Chuma, Innocent Ochera, and Isaiah Mabeny.
Chuma and Ochera have found new homes with Namuwongo, while Amisi joins Rwanda’s United Generation Basketball. The KIU Titans, in turn, welcome fresh talent, signing Congolese Power Forward Tembo Kasereka, Centre Junior Lukadi, Shooting Guard Isabu Charles from Makindye Shooters, and Congolese forward Mpiya Juf. Additionally, Shooting Guards Dennis Omara and Ahmed Kassa join the roster.
On the Blazers’ front, strategic acquisitions include former KCCA guard Daniel Gaaki and South Sudanese national Micheal Ngut (small forward) from the Oilers, reinforcing their squad for the upcoming challenges.
It’s worth noting that Namuwongo’s decision to withdraw from the league last season, despite a commendable 17-5 record, was influenced by a communication from the local basketball governing body FUBA. The directive highlighted that the winner of the previous season’s title would not secure a spot to compete at the prestigious Basketball Africa League (BAL).
