By Michael Ainomugisha
As the National Basketball League (NBL) 2025 season approaches, the UCU Canons and UCU Lady Canons have bolstered their rosters following key departures. The league is set to tip off on March 21st, with UCU teams focused on rebuilding and remaining competitive.
Lady Canons Undergo Major Changes
The UCU Lady Canons are in transition after losing five core players—Shakirah Nanvubya, Aziida Nabayuga, Tracy Namugosa, Prosper Anyine, and Caroline Nakato—to other clubs.
Head coach Nicholas Natuhereza confirmed that three new players have already joined the squad, with more expected.
“We lost five or six players who had been around for a while, which means we are going into a rebuild. We are still in the recruitment process, looking for replacements and reinforcements to strengthen the squad,” said Natuhereza.
Among the new additions are Zoe Atek (Power Forward, St. Noa Girls), Sarah Namele (Center, Nabisunsa Girls), and Ciela Igiraneza (Point Guard, Burundi).
Lady Canons has also secured Asacha Mariam (Small Guard, Buddo SS), Nalwadda Sharifah (Point Guard, Naalya SS – Lugazi), Saima Christine (Point Guard, St. Mary’s Kitende), and Kauma Bridget (Small Forward, Seroma Christian High School).
“With every season, our goal is growth—for players to improve and for us to compete in every game. Making the playoffs is a minimum expectation, and reaching the finals is a realistic one,” Natuhereza added.
The departure of former captain Shakirah Nanvubya to the JT Lady Jaguars has left a leadership gap. However, Hajjarah Najjuko remains as captain, with Shillah Lamunu set to serve as co-captain.
Canons Welcome Fresh Talent
On the men’s side, the UCU Canons have also undergone changes, with Kevin Kasobya leaving for Kampala Rockets, Jerry Kayanga, Peter Sifuma to JT Jaguars, and Abraham Isiayagi all departing. To fill these gaps, UCU has brought in a mix of talented local and international players.
The new signings include Ariho Amara (Point Guard, Livingstone), Muganzi Daniel (Point Guard, Watoto), Dushime Flore (Point Guard, Burundi), Lihumi Jimmy (Power Forward, Sommet).
Also UCU canons acquired the services Chiedozie Raluchukwu (Center, Nigeria) and Tadeo Onyango (Power Forward) also joined the squad after a playing hiatus.
“We have four to five new players joining the team, not just to replace those who left but to strengthen our overall squad depth,” Natuhereza confirmed.
Team captain Ibanda Lwabanga remains in place, with Joel Kayiira set to be named as co-captain.
Preseason Friendlies and Preparations
To fine-tune their squads ahead of the season, UCU has played a series of friendly matches. Both the Canons and Lady Canons faced JT Lady Jaguars in a doubled header friendly games while additional games were scheduled against Rezlife Saints and Seroma High School.
These preseason friendlies have provided an opportunity for new players to integrate into the teams and for the coaching staff to assess key areas that need improvement before the season begins.
Eyes on the Playoffs
Despite constant squad changes, UCU remains one of the most competitive teams in the NBL. Last season, the Lady Canons reached the finals but fell 4-2 to JKL Lady Dolphins, while the Canons finished third after losing in the semifinals to eventual champions City Oilers but securing a 65-62 win over Namuwongo Blazers in the third-place playoff.
“For me, that was a big achievement, considering we have young players who balance academics with basketball. With the team evolving every year, it’s never easy,” said Natuhereza.
Looking ahead, he remains confident in UCU’s ability to compete at the highest level.
“We’ve introduced a number of new players, and we’re trying to integrate them into the team. They need playing time and opportunities to build chemistry with their teammates, which will help us improve overall.” Natuhereza said.
He also commented on the UCU Canon’s performances in the preseason.
“For the boys, they have competed well, especially on defense. Defensively, we’ve done a solid job. The challenge has been on offense, where we haven’t performed as well as we need to. There’s room for improvement, and I believe we can get better.” Nicholas added.
