Uganda Silverbacks, the national basketball team are facing uncertainties about their participation in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 African Qualifiers set for November 26-28 due to lack of funds.
Reports indicate that the Silverbacks will not travel to the western city of Benguela, Angola to compete in the upcoming tournament.
The Silverbacks finished sixth at the AfroBasket in September in Kigali. The team faced similar financial problems as the government contributed Shs330m of the Shs500m that the Federation Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) had budgeted for the tournament.
However, First son and Commander of the Land Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba came to their rescue and cleared all bills.
This time around, the National Council of Sports (NCS) reportedly says they have no funds for the team.
When Matooke Republic contacted FUBA for their comments about the matter, Albert Ahabwe, the Team Manager of the National Team said;
“I can’t speak officially on behalf of the team/federation. Please contact the President, Nasser. He will give you the story.”
Our efforts to reach out to FUBA president Nasser Sserunjogi were futile as he did not pick up our calls.
We understand that the summoned home-based players have been in nonresidential camp for the past week at the Africa Bible College in Lubowa.