Fresh off a decent run in the 2025 National Basketball League regular season, the Namuwongo Blazers are channelling that momentum toward the Road to BAL qualifying tournament.
The Blazers will sternly test tournament hosts Dar City in their opening encounter today at the IST Gymnasium in Dar es Salaam.
Though it marks the Blazers’ maiden attempt at this stage, their roster is bolstered with players who have previously navigated this challenging qualification process.
Blazers’ head coach Stephen Nyeko shared the team’s excitement ahead of the tricky opener. “It’s exciting to be at this stage representing the country as the Blazers,” the gaffer stated.
“We have waited for a long time, but I can say the dream has come true. We thought of this some time back, and we are right here to deliver.”
Tough test ahead
Dar City, however, comes in red-hot, having made light work of Djabal from Comoros with a convincing 102-50 victory in front of a large home crowd.
Raphiael Putney led their charge with a record-setting 55 points, supported by Deng Agok (17 points), Makhi Ahkim Mitchell (10 points), and Nisre Zouzoua (10 points) all scoring in double digits.
The numbers posted by the hosts promise a tough outing, but the Blazers have strengthened their options. The introduction of Joseph Obasa, Bereal Jaycson Ray, and John Murry II adds depth for Coach Nyeko to utilise.
This trio will work alongside veterans Jimmy Enabu, James Okello, and Ivan Muhwezi, who have prior BAL experience from their time with the City Oilers.
The technical bench also receives a boost with the arrival of former Falcons and Warriors Center, Henry Malinga.
With two games left to play in the tournament, a win is enough to guide the Blazers into the Elite 16 round scheduled for November.
Team News
Tonny Drileba is likely to miss the game due to a foot injury sustained in training last week, though he will gladly take up a coach-player role from the sidelines.