Joel Kayira is set to join the City Oilers from UCU Canons for the 2026 National Basketball League season, becoming the latest in a long line of players to move from UCU Canons to the record-holding champions.
Kayiira’s move to City Oilers is the talk of the NBL but according to Coach Nicholas Natuhereza, it isn’t just his skill set that the champions are inheriting. It’s a specific, rare quality that makes him a generational talent.
In a league obsessed with physical stats and collection of accolades, Coach Natuhereza believes Kayiira’s true edge is mental. While his talent is undeniable, it is a rare combination of relentless drive, patience, and a positive mindset that makes him a big signing for the City Oilers.
“The first time I saw him, I noticed a hunger and drive that made his growth inevitable. When you combine that with his 6’10 height, which is incredibly rare in Uganda, I knew immediately that he was special,” Natuhereza said.
According to the gaffer, losing Kayiira is a big blow and he cannot be replaced. “We lose a big piece that we cannot replace. His presence in the paint mattered, his influence on teammates mattered, so we shall miss him.”
“I wish him nothing but the best. We are used to losing good players like Joel, so we shall figure it out and find a way to succeed with the group we have,” he concluded.
The 2026 National Basketball League gets underway on Friday, February 6 and teams continue to shake up their rosters.