Uganda’s basketball legend Norman Blick fulfills dream with new academy launch

Uganda’s basketball legend Norman Blick is still chasing his dream of nurturing young talent through the sport that gave him so much.

His vision to start the Blick Basketball Academy began as early as 2020 when he first contemplated life after retirement.

However, five years later, that dream had remained unrealized, delayed by challenges—particularly in securing a suitable location.

“There have been a number of impediments, the biggest being finding a better place to put the academy. I still dream of buying a bigger piece of land to set up a full basketball school—that’s still in the pipeline,” Blick said.

But as the saying goes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Over the weekend, Blick took that crucial step by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Kisakye Primary and Nursery School in Mengo, allowing him to launch his academy with the pupils there.

“I’m passionate about kids. Any child who’s passionate about basketball—I’m always ready to pass on what I know. Being allowed to start my academy at Kisakye is truly a dream come true,” Blick shared emotionally.

The academy’s launch was attended by parents, teachers, and well-wishers, all excited to see children learning under one of Uganda’s basketball greats. Blick promised more than just coaching—he aims to connect the school with top international basketball programs, organize friendly matches across Africa, and provide real pathways for students to turn professional.

“Too often, young players want to shoot like Curry, dunk like LeBron, or do step-backs like Harden. But they don’t understand the value of fundamental basketball. If you give them the right platform and expose them to international competition, their chances of living their dreams increase,” Blick explained.

On the first day, he introduced pupils to the basics: shooting, defending, movement, communication, and fitness—essential skills for any aspiring player.

Steven Okurut, Director of Kisakye Primary and Nursery School, praised the initiative, saying it would boost both physical and academic development. “I appeal to all parents around Mengo and beyond to enroll their children. In five years, we want this academy to become the nursery bed for basketball clubs in Uganda,” Okurut said.

Notably, in February 2023, a devastating fire destroyed the school. Blick believes the basketball academy will be part of its rebirth—a beacon to raise academic standards, rebuild community ties, and restore pride in the institution.