The Inspiring Journey of Namuwongo Blazers: From Local Court to National Stardom

Namuwongo Blazers: Rise of Uganda’s Hoops Underdogs

The Namuwongo Blazers’ journey is a tale of grit, community, and basketball brilliance. This team transformed basketball by progressing from dusty Kisugu courts to facing Uganda’s top competitors. Their story from starting their journey in the 1990s until reaching a historic national championship showdown in 2022 remains incredibly inspirational.

Learn how a group of friends created a national sensation and emerged as icons of hope.

The Birth of a Brotherhood

Before 2014, the Namuwongo Blazers existed only as a dream. The seeds were planted in the 1990s on the African Gospel Church court in Kisugu, where CEO Daniel Muttu Obol and coach Stephen Nyeko forged lifelong bonds through pick-up games.

“We learned basketball there and built a brotherhood,” Obol recalls. By 2014, they formalized their passion into a club. This deep-rooted passion for the sport extended beyond the players to the Namuwongo community, with the team becoming a local symbol of perseverance. Their patron, Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, is among their most dedicated supporters.

Their home court, nestled near Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo’s residence, became a symbol of community pride.

Climbing the National Basketball Ladder

The Blazers entered Uganda’s National Basketball League (NBL) in 2019 but encountered numerous obstacles right away. The Blazers’ promotion proved to be not only a sports achievement but also demonstrated how hard work and unity can achieve great things.  

However, their NBL journey wasn’t smooth. The pandemic during 2020 and 2021 interrupted their sports seasons and stopped their forward progress. Their determination to reach the pinnacle grew stronger during this uncertain period.

2022 Finals: Redefining Ugandan Basketball

City Oilers had dominated the NBL for seven years—until the Blazers arrived. Topping the 2022 regular season, the Blazers stormed the playoffs, defeating KCCA Panthers and KIU Titans to face the Oilers in a historic finals.

  • The Game Seven Thriller

The Lugogo Indoor Arena became packed during the intense basketball contest. The Blazers trailed by four points with just 0.6 seconds left when David Deng scored two free throws and intentionally missed his third shot to earn overtime. But Paul Odong’s rebound shot rimmed out, sealing a 66-64 Oilers victory.

Though heartbroken, the Blazers had reshaped Uganda’s basketball landscape. “We changed the face of the game,” Obol declared. Their underdog spirit drew unprecedented crowds, reigniting fan passion nationwide.

Community Impact: Beyond the Court

The Namuwongo Blazers are more than just a basketball team—they are a movement. Their commitment to uplifting lives through sport is demonstrated through their outreach programs which include basketball clinics for refugees.

The Blazers brought their message of hope and success through basketball to young refugees during their visit to the Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement.

2023 Controversy: A Setback and a Stand

In 2023, the Blazers faced a pivotal challenge. Uganda’s basketball body, FUBA, canceled the country’s Basketball Africa League (BAL) entry to align its calendar with sponsors. For the Blazers—whose sponsorships hinged on BAL qualification—the decision was devastating.

“We called for fairness,” Obol asserted. This decision, aimed at aligning Uganda’s basketball calendar with BAL standards, left the Blazers and their sponsors frustrated. Given that their ultimate goal was to compete in BAL, the team opted out of the playoffs, sparking debates in Ugandan basketball circles.

The 2024 Roster: Reloaded and Ready

CEO Obol acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. “We have to become self-sustaining,” he says. “Getting our own home court is our next big step.” Bolstered by new signings and seasoned stars, the Blazers aim for 2024 glory. Key players include:

  • Paul Odong
  • Michael Makiadi
  • Jimmy Enabu
  • Richard Ongom
  • Peter Cheng
  • Ochera Innocent
  • Arthur Wanyoto
  • Daniel Gaaki
  • Jimmy Williams
  • Joseph Chuma
  • Paul Odong
  • Chuol Nyuot
  • Geoffrey Soro
  • Richard Ongom
  • Elly Okello
  • Nasser Guddi
  • Wadaya Blair
  • Alfred Okello
  • Diopa Lukusa

With their sights set on the 2024 NBL season, the Blazers are strengthening their squad. Reports suggest they are targeting seasoned players like Jimmy Enabu, Tony Drileba, and James Okello, all former City Oilers champions.

Why the Oilers Remain the Benchmark

City Oilers’ financial muscle and experience make them formidable. “Beating them requires resources we’re still building,” admits Obol. The Blazers focus on sustainability, including plans for a home arena to boost revenue.

Fan Power: The Heartbeat of the Blazers

Superfan Mark “Pepe” Labong embodies the team’s grassroots appeal. “Our fans span Uganda—not just Namuwongo,” he says. Merchandise sales and packed arenas prove their growing influence. Even Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo and Dr. Ian Clarke count themselves as supporters.

Famous Fans Who Support Nam Blazers

  • Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo
  • Dr. Ian Clarke (IHK Founder)
  • Philip Wokorach (Rugby Cranes Legend)

Looking Ahead: The Road to Glory

The Blazers’ milestones speak volumes:

  • 2022: NBL Finalists, Regular Season Champions
  • 2023: Regular Season Runners-Up
  • 2024: Playoff Semifinalists

With a mix of youth and experience, the team eyes its first title. “We’ll keep fighting,” vows Obol. “Championship gold is inevitable.”

A Movement Bigger Than Basketball

The Namuwongo Blazers have already changed Ugandan basketball forever. Their journey, marked by resilience and community spirit, has inspired a new generation of players and fans.

With their continued quest for the NBL title and aspirations for BAL, the Blazers are not just a team to watch—they are a force redefining Ugandan basketball.

Join the movement. Witness history. Support the Nam Blazers.