FUBA Junior NBA tournament returns

The second season of the FUBA Junior NBA tips off Saturday at Lugogo with two games and expectations of all-round improvement from project manager Grace Kwizera.

Launched last year, the Ugandan version of the global initiative of the USA's famous NBA enjoyed a successful start as previously unseen young talent was showcased to the local basketball fraternity.

The KISU Bucks defeated the Mashariki High Pelicans 66-51 in a highly-thrilling final that provided a promising snapshot into the future of Ugandan basketball. According to Kwizera, more is on the way.

"This being the second season, the quality of the game should be better," said Kwizera.

"We should also have some games televised while every school is going to get 10 new balls and new dry fit uniforms".

Saturday's season openers will include the Kalinabiri Celtics against Emma High Raptors and the Gems Magic versus the Bucks.

Again, 30 teams (just like in the American NBA) will take part in this year's edition, including three new entrants in Gems Cambridge, Watoto High School and St Noah Namagoma. They have replaced Lubiri, Kisubi and Standard High Schools from last season.

The tournament will run from eight weeks, with 15 teams apiece being grouped into what is called the eastern and western conference. Following the regular season, the playoffs climax with the two conference winners meeting in the finals.