City Oilers release club legends as rebuild begins

Ten‑time National Basketball League (NBL) champions City Oilers have confirmed the release of club legends Joseph Chuma and Moses Maker Roor Mer as the record holders embark on a fresh rebuild ahead of the 2026 season.

In an official statement, the Oilers said the two players played a big role in the club’s long period of dominance.

“Thank you Chuma for every bucket, every stop, and every moment you left it all on the floor. Once family, always family,” the statement read.

“Grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every fight you brought to the floor. Wishing you nothing but success, Maker.”

Power forward Joseph Chuma, last season’s league top rebounder with 289 boards, is in talks with 2025 semi‑finalists Sommet BC. Center Moses Maker Roor Mer is also expected to move, with negotiations ongoing with defending champions Namuwongo Blazers.

Meanwhile, the Oilers are active in the transfer market. They are pushing to re‑sign center Landry Ndikumana and are eyeing Blazers guard Joel Banza Lukoji, last season’s MVP for both the regular season and playoffs. Lukoji has already bid farewell to Blazers management and is expected to sign a 12‑month deal with the Oilers if talks succeed.

Lukoji was instrumental in Namuwongo’s historic title run that ended Oilers’ 10‑year reign, scoring 183 points, 70 assists, and 49 steals in the regular season, before elevating his game in the playoffs with 297 points, 106 assists, and 63 steals. His potential partnership with skilled guard Fayed Baale could form one of the league’s most dangerous backcourts.

The Oilers face intense scrutiny as the 2026 season approaches. After being dethroned by Namuwongo Blazers, the club is searching for the right formula to return to the summit. Rebuilding is never easy, especially for a team accustomed to winning.

For years, Oilers’ success was anchored by a strong core, Jimmy Enabu, James Okello, Tony Drileba, and Ivan Muhwezi, whose departures left a significant void. Identifying and nurturing the next generation of talent will require patience and planning, though the club’s resources give them an edge in attracting top prospects.

One player the Oilers continue to rely on is Fayed Baale. His absence last season exposed the team’s vulnerability, but when available, he led the league in scoring, inspired teammates, and carried the Oilers through difficult stretches.

Although he nearly moved to Rwanda in 2024, the Oilers managed to retain him. As the rebuild begins, Baale remains the club’s most valuable player and will be central to their ambitions in 2026.