The last time university sides competitively played outside of the National Basketball League setting was in 2015 during the Zuku University Basketball League.
Since then, only universities playing in FUBA leagues as UCU, Ndejje and the likes have had an opportunities to face off competitively.
However, the trend will change starting this Saturday, September 30 when the inaugural University Floodlights Basketball tips off at Makerere Main Grounds court. The tournament that will be played on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays will run up to November 11.
The first edition that will have 10 institutions compete in both the men and women’s categories was launched on Wednesday at Makerere University.
Speaking at the launch of the event, Patrick Ssebuliba, the secretary general of Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) said they wanted to give a new dimension to university sport.
Ssebuliba’s voice was echoed by the president of the association Peninnah Kabenge;
We are happy to have moved one more step in sport. We have a new flagship name and we hope the event will elevate the game of basketball.
The ten universities are divided into two groups with the top two facing off in the semifinals and the rest playing classification games.
Universities to Participate
Makerere, Ndejje, Nkumba, UCU, Kyambogo, Cavendish, IUEA, KIU, Kampala University, Uganda Martyrs.
Opening Fixture
- Makerere vs. Ndejje