Mandy Juruni poised for sensational return to City Oilers
Juruni's anticipated return follows his recent departure from Rwanda's Kepler Basketball Club, where he served as head coach for two years after joining in 2023.
Mandy Juruni. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
Seasoned Ugandan basketball coach Mandy Juruni is poised for a sensational return to City Oilers, the club where he enjoyed the most successful spell of his coaching career, as the National Basketball League (NBL) enters the crucial playoff stage.
Juruni's anticipated return follows his recent departure from Rwanda's Kepler Basketball Club, where he served as head coach for two years after joining in 2023.
The two parties are understood to have parted ways by mutual agreement, bringing an end to a relatively successful stint in Rwandan basketball.
According to reliable sources close to the developments, City Oilers have already opened discussions with Juruni regarding a comeback, with plans for him to assume full control of the club's basketball operations ahead of the 2027 season. The development comes at a time when the Oilers are once again positioning themselves as strong contenders for domestic success.
City Oilers have concluded the regular season at the summit of the league standings with 42 points collected from 22 matches.
However, their position at the top is not yet guaranteed, as second-placed Nam Blazers, who currently have 38 points, could overtake them if they win their remaining two fixtures and draw level on games played.
Juruni's legacy at City Oilers remains unmatched in Ugandan basketball history. Having taken charge of the club in 2013, he transformed the Oilers into the most dominant force the National Basketball League has ever witnessed. During his decade-long tenure, which lasted until December 2023, the club captured nine consecutive league championships, establishing a dynasty that redefined basketball excellence in Uganda.
Beyond domestic dominance, Juruni also guided the Oilers to regional glory, leading the club to Zone V Club Championship titles in both 2017 and 2019. Under his stewardship, City Oilers became regular representatives of Uganda on the continental stage and earned widespread recognition across East Africa.
Since his departure, the Oilers have struggled to maintain the same level of sustained dominance. Although they managed to secure the 2024 NBL title, they were dethroned the following season by a resurgent Nam Blazers side, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape of Ugandan basketball.
Should negotiations be successfully concluded, Juruni's return would mark the reunion of one of Uganda's most accomplished coaches with the club he helped build into a powerhouse. It would also provide City Oilers with an opportunity to restore the culture of excellence and consistency that characterized one of the most successful eras in the history of Ugandan basketball.