The Namuwongo Blazers are gearing up for one of the biggest moments in their club’s history as they prepare to make their maiden appearance in the Road to BAL (Basketball Africa League) tournament. With a revamped roster and a determined spirit, the Blazers are ready to test themselves against some of the region’s finest sides.
The Kampala-based side has bolstered its lineup with three strategic signings John Murry, Joseph Obasa, and Bereal Jaycson Ray as they aim to make an instant impression on the continental stage. Murry and Obasa bring a wealth of experience, having featured previously in similar continental competitions with Kadji Sports Academy, and are expected to inject leadership and composure into the squad.
Beyond the new faces, the Blazers’ core remains stacked with seasoned campaigners. Tonny Drileba, Jimmy Enabu, Ivan Muhwezi, and James Okello all with Basketball Africa League (BAL) experience provide a steady backbone for the ambitious side.
The Road to BAL qualifiers have undergone a slight shake-up following the ban on the Burundi Basketball Federation, which ruled out Dynamo. Their place has been taken by Djabal Club from Comoros, creating a three-team contest featuring the Blazers, Djabal Club, and Tanzania’s Dat City.
Dat City, meanwhile, are considered the early favorites after signing high-profile stars such as Solo Diabate, Nisre Zouzoua, and Raphiael Putney, under the guidance of coach Maradona Gueye.
The competition will be played in a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the prestigious Elite 16 stage, where they will battle for a ticket to the main BAL tournament.
For the Blazers, participation in this year’s qualifiers represents more than a debut—it’s a statement of intent. With a mix of local talent and experienced imports, the Namuwongo outfit is aiming not just to compete, but to announce itself as a rising powerhouse in African basketball.
