Five women on debut at Zone V qualifiers

Feb 04, 2007

UGANDA basketball coaches yesterday named their final squads for duty at the Zone Five All Africa Games qualifiers in Kigali, Rwanda.

By Gloria Kyomugisha

UGANDA basketball coaches yesterday named their final squads for duty at the Zone Five All Africa Games qualifiers in Kigali, Rwanda.

The women and men teams of 12 players each left for Kigali yesterday by road.

The week-long tournament starts today with 23 teams from 12 nations assembling at the Amahoro stadium.

Releasing the names of the players, women’s coach Hamza Nyambogo included five players who will be donning national colours for the first time.

Receiving first call ups were Elizabeth Kiiza (A-1 Challenge), Mariam Birungi (L. Bucks), Carol Nantalo (MUK-Sparks), Monica Siima (KCC Leopards) and Aisha Nakitto from Nabisunsa.

The Uganda team, tipped to top the regional show, also boasts of six experienced players.

Olivia Mulwana, Vicky Nassolo (MUK-Sparks), Miriam Hamala, Becky Akullo, Agatha Baliddawa (KCC Leopards), Frances Nabulobi and Flavia Oketcho of Lady Bucks complete the squad.

Men’s coach Timothy Odeke said that Nkumba-Marines forward Karrol Bisereko and Rhinos Roger Serunyigo would not travel due to studies and work committements.

“But we have 12 competent players who will challenge for honours in Kigali,” said Odeke whose list includes D. Kiberu (Rhinos), S. Okias (Warriors), H. Malinga, B. Sentongo (Falcons), B. Komakech, D. Ssali (Miracle), I. Enabu (K. Riders), J. Ikong (Heaters), M. Olobo, N. Blick (Marines) and R. Balemwa (Power).

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