Ugandan National Basketball League set for most competitive season yet

The Ugandan National Basketball League (NBL) tips off on February 6, and anticipation is high that this season could be more competitive than ever.

Emerging rivalries, roster shake-ups, and new rule adjustments from FUBA are fueling excitement among fans across the country.

The clash between the Namuwongo Blazers and the City Oilers has quickly become Uganda’s fiercest basketball rivalry, consistently drawing packed crowds whenever the two sides meet. In the past, teams like Power, Kyambogo Warriors, and Falcons had strong rivalries, but those have faded. The rise of new rivalries is expected to reignite passion and grow interest in the league.

Beyond the Oilers and Blazers, matchups involving JT Jaguars, Sommet, UCU Canons, and Kampala Panthers promise plenty of drama. The women’s league is also heating up, with competitive fixtures featuring KCCA, JKL Lady Dolphins, JT Lady Jaguars, Pearl Queens, and UCU Lady Canons.

This season’s transfer window revealed significant roster changes. The adjustment to the foreign player rule, allowing teams to field up to four foreign players per game has introduced fresh talent, raising the overall standard of competition.

The City Oilers made headlines by signing Joel Lukoji from the Blazers, last season’s MVP. Lukoji joins Fayed Baale in the backcourt, while the return of Landry Ndikumana and the presence of Joel Kayiira, the Defensive Player of the Year, strengthen the Oilers’ inside game. The Blazers, meanwhile, countered by acquiring Congolese forward Franck Nyembo Fataki from Sommet.

Nyembo was one of the league’s top scorers and rebounders last season and could emerge as an MVP contender. With stalwarts like Peter Obleng, Anthony Chukwurah, Arthur Wanyoto, and Tonny Drileba, the Blazers remain formidable.

Other teams are also retooling. Sommet lost key players such as Nyembo and Mark Ngobi but recruited new talent with hopes of building a competitive squad. The Kampala Rockets, Rezlife, and Victoria Crocs have invested in young players who could spring surprises.

The women’s competition is becoming increasingly competitive. The JKL Lady Dolphins, once dominant, are rebuilding after losing several key players. This opens the door for challengers like the UCU Lady Canons, JT Lady Jaguars, and KCCA Leopards, all of whom have realistic chances of claiming the crown.

FUBA’s new rules could significantly shape the season. The foreign player rule has already raised the level of play, while the U21 rule gives young Ugandan players opportunities to compete in both the NBL and lower leagues, accelerating their development. However, amendments around player registration have sparked debate. Teams can now sign players early and activate them later in the season, creating the possibility of “ghost players.” While this adds a layer of strategy, it could also tilt the balance in favor of wealthier clubs, leaving resource-limited teams at a disadvantage.

With rivalries intensifying, rosters strengthening, and new rules reshaping the landscape, the 2025–2026 NBL season promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. Fans can expect packed arenas, breakout performances, and a league that continues to grow in stature both locally and regionally.