By Michael Ainomugisha
Shakirah Nanvubya’s journey into basketball was anything but conventional. Growing up in Wakiso, she attended Exodus College, where basketball wasn’t immediately on her radar. In fact, there wasn’t even a proper court at her school, just hoops on an uneven playing surface. “At first, we didn’t have a court,” she recalls. “It was just hoops for both sides. I played just for fun, really.”
Nanvubya’s athleticism was apparent from a young age. Even before she discovered basketball, she was involved in various sports.
“Growing up, I’ve always been a sportswoman. I used to do athletics in primary school for my house, those typical primary school sports,” she says.
Competitive spirit
Her competitive spirit was what ultimately drew her to basketball. “I’ve always been competitive. Whether it was eating food or doing anything small, I was always competing. That didn’t scare me, and it didn’t push me away.”
She recalls that her first real steps into basketball began with an act of courage—joining a game dominated by boys. “The school I was at saw basketball as a male sport,” she explains. “You’d never see a girl on the court. One day, I saw the boys playing, and I thought to myself, ‘Let me try.’” Despite initial nerves, Nanvubya quickly immersed herself in the game, bringing her competitive edge and athleticism with her.
Her passion for basketball led her to UCU in January 2019. “We had the UCU Open, and I started playing for UCU then,” she says. Her entry into the university team wasn’t smooth sailing, however. During that first tournament, she didn’t get much time on the court, a disappointment she still recalls vividly. “I wasn’t given a chance to play in the finals. I was disappointed and went to Coach Nick, asking him why I didn’t get a chance. He told me, ‘Shaki, you’re young, you’re a potential player, but your time will come. You just need to work hard.’”
That conversation marked a turning point for Nanvubya, who resolved to put in the work and earn her place. She embraced the challenge and trained tirelessly. “My time to play came,” she says with pride. Over the years, as older, more experienced players graduated, Nanvubya found herself rising through the ranks. By 2020, UCU had become a young team, relying on players like Nanvubya to lead the charge.
Loyalty to UCU
What has kept her loyal to UCU for over four years is a blend of personal values and a deep connection to the institution. “I’m a loyal person,” she states simply. “Joining UCU, I felt honoured to represent such a well-respected university. I’ve learned so much here, not just in basketball but in life.” She is particularly grateful for the support she has received from her coaches and the university community, noting that the opportunities she’s had, both academically and athletically, have shaped her into the person she is today. “UCU has given me so much—joining the national team, becoming a good player, and even being named the best point guard in the league.”
Challenges faced
Nanvubya’s time at UCU has not been without challenges. Adjusting to life at university, especially the dorm arrangements, was difficult. “In my first year, we were sleeping four in a room—footballers, netballers, and basketballers all mixed together,” she remembers. “It was tough as a young player, but I kept pushing. I’m hardworking, and I love competition.”
As captain of the UCU Lady Canons, Nanvubya has matured into a strong leader. “Being a captain has grown me so much,” she says. “I’ve matured a lot, and I’ve learned to take on responsibility.” Balancing leadership, academic responsibilities, and her own performance on the court hasn’t always been easy, but Nanvubya’s determination and drive have kept her going. “I don’t fear responsibility. I embrace it,” she says. “I’ve always been taught to take on responsibility, especially when it’s yours to take.”
Her relationship with Coach Nicholas Natuhereza has been a major influence in her life, both on and off the court. “It’s more than basketball with Coach Nick,” Nanvubya says. “He’s been a father figure, a brother, and a friend. He’s taught us how to love God, respect ourselves, and strive to be the best versions of ourselves.” Nanvubya credits much of her growth to his guidance, both as a coach and a mentor. “When I came to UCU, I couldn’t dribble with my left hand. Now, I can. I couldn’t shoot well, but now I’m a better shooter. Coach Nick has developed me as a player and a person.”
Highlights on the court
One of her most memorable moments came in 2022 when the UCU Lady Canons won the national championship. “Winning the championship in 2022 was the best moment of my basketball career,” Nanvubya recalls. “We were a young team, but we worked hard and beat veteran players. I wasn’t even 100% healthy, but I played in the finals.” The pride in her voice is evident as she speaks about the championship.
Despite missing out on the championship in 2024, Nanvubya remains hopeful for the future of the team.
“Unfortunately, last season was my last with the Lady Canons. But I believe the team will bounce back. It might take a couple of seasons, but I trust our coaches and the players. UCU is never a mediocre team,”she revealed.
Looking ahead, Nanvubya has big plans. “In five years, I see myself continuing to play basketball, but I also want to give back to the game,” she says. “I want to become a coach or an administrator, having done my master’s in public administration. I also see myself becoming a big figure in this country, contributing to the growth of basketball and inspiring the next generation.” she adds.
