Junior Gazelles, Silverbacks storm Dar in high spirits

Jun 14, 2018

Having won the previous edition in both categories, the Gazelles and Silverbacks will go out guns blazing to defend the titles in Tanzania’s capital Dares Salaam 17-22 June.

PIC: David Katende, NCS Assistant GS flagging off the Junior Gazelles and Silverbacks at UOC. (Credit: Richard Sanya)

 

BASKETBALL

 

FIBA Zone V U18 Nations Cup

 

Date:17-22 June

 

Time:Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

 

DAR ES SALAAM - Uganda has grown into a powerhouse of sorts in the U18 Boys and Girls FIBA Zone V Nations Cup. That is that!

 

Having won the previous edition in both categories, the Gazelles and Silverbacks will go out guns blazing to defend the titles in Tanzania's capital Dares Salaam 17-22 June.

 

There is a strong wave of optimism in Uganda's ranks ahead of the almost week-long contest.

 

"We carefully prepared our players, picking them from schools across the country and there has been intensive training.

 

"We know that the competition is stiff but our players have what it takes to register great results" said Ali Mavita, coach of the Gazelles Thursday during the official flag off of Uganda's teams at UOC, lugogo.

 

Qualification for the Boy's U18 FIBA Africa Nations Championships is on the cards for the junior Silverbacks as a first finish guarantees qualification for the meet to be determined in Mali.

 

The Junior Gazelles pose during their flag off at UOC Headquarters in Lugogo. (Credit:Richard Sanya)

 

Conversely winners in the girls' category qualify for the FIBA U18 Nations Championships which will be determined in Mozambique.

 

"I have faith in the team. We managed to gel after a series of pick-up trainings and I hope we win the contest" said Agatha Kamwada captain of the junior Gazelles.

 

For the Boys it remains to be seen whether they will come good over South Sudan, Rwanda and the hosts. On the other hand, Rwanda and hosts Tanzania stand in the way of the Gazelles.

 

 

 

Head of Delegation: Vicky Ntale

 

Team Physio: Chris Mbowa

 

Refs: Baker Kyambadde

 

          Monica Nassuna

 

 Gazelles

 

Agatha Kamwanda

 

Bronnie Kusiime

 

Ramla Nakato

 

Shakirah Nanvubya

 

Maureen Nankumbi

 

Shadia Mbwali

 

Aisha Namakula

 

Bridget Aber

 

Firdance Namuleme

 

Aziida Nabayunga

 

Alice Isoto

 

Coach: Ali Mavita

 

Ass Coach: Albert Aciko

 

Silverbacks

 

Fayed Baale

 

Arnold Kiseeka

 

Rabuseh Matsiko

 

Rogers Duana

 

Raymond Iriama

 

Roxine Ahumuza

 

Mark Wamala

 

John Teko

 

Johnson Asianzu

 

 Larry Kimambo

 

Eldrine Walujjo

 

Rajab Mpiima

 

Coach: Nick Natuhereza

 

Ass Coach: Ronald Bajjunga

 

EMAIL: kbalikuddembe@newvision.co.ug

 

TWITTER: @casozi14