Blick launches "Strong Bodies, Strong Minds” basketball initiative in schools
Norman Blick (left) poses with pupils of Kisakye Primary School in Mengo after he donated basketball equipment to the school, April 10, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
Legendary Ugandan basketballer Norman Blick has, through his Blick Basketball Academy (BBA), launched an initiative dubbed "Strong Bodies, Strong Minds through Basketball" aimed at empowering less fortunate children with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive both on the court and in the classroom.
The launch at Kisakye Primary School in Mengo on Friday saw Blick donate over 50 pairs of basketball shoes, jerseys, basketballs, and essential sports equipment, reinforcing the Academy's mission to nurture young talent from ages 3 to 17.
Kisakye Primary School, founded by the late Ugandan Anglican bishop Samuel Balagadde Ssekkadde about 25 years ago, is home to a vibrant, enthusiastic student community where many children show natural passion for sport but lack access to proper equipment.
The school has a strong culture of discipline, teamwork, and academic ambition, values that align perfectly with BBA's philosophy.
The headteacher for academics at the school, Agnes Nassozi, said their pupils are eager learners who respond positively to structured physical activity and are highly motivated when given opportunities to participate in sports. They are role-model driven, looking up to athletes like Blick as proof that humble beginnings can lead to greatness, making Kisakye the ideal starting point for a campaign designed to strengthen both physical health and mental resilience.
Blick said that as he marks 20 years of basketball excellence, he wants to give back to the children who might go on to represent the country in various events. He encouraged the children to believe in their potential regardless of background.
"Be disciplined, passionate, put in the work, and you will be surprised at how many doors this beautiful sport will open for you," he told the pupils.
He emphasised the importance of balancing sport with academic excellence and urged the children to "put God first in all you do." He noted that the children also have the opportunity to improve their teamwork, sharing, health, communication, and other virtues.
Blick said the shoe drive will continue with contributions from donors in the UK through his sister, who lives there. He also encouraged other schools to get in touch and create collaborations with BBA.
Blick Basketball Academy plans to extend the shoe drive to at least 10 more schools by 2027 and across the Central Region by the end of 2026. The Academy is calling on partners, parents, and stakeholders to join the movement to build a healthier, more confident generation of young Ugandans.
BBA was established to shape young boys and girls through foundational basketball skills while instilling discipline, healthy habits, and positive life choices. The Academy believes that strong bodies build strong minds—and strong minds build strong futures.
The initiative strengthens both physical health and mental resilience, helping children excel academically, build confidence, and develop discipline. Many children in partner schools love basketball but lack proper footwear and equipment, yet physical activity improves academic performance, focus, and behaviour. Basketball teaches teamwork, discipline, and leadership—skills that shape future success.