Uganda’s National Male Basketball Team, ”Silverbacks”, will be in action later today in the opening game of the first leg of FIBA 2019 World Cup qualifiers.
The Silverbacks play heavyweight and 2015 African Champions Nigeria today with games against host Mali and Rwanda set to follow over the weekend in Group B.
Coming against the experienced Nigerians and Mali’s home fans is set to be a daunting task for Uganda who will be counting on the experience of foreign based players to compete.
Point Guard Joshua Johnson of Ipswich Town, Forward Brandon Sebirumbi of Japanese side Aomori Wats and Shooting Guard Samuel Kakooza who is based in Sweden have been called to the final roster.
The call up means a lot to Johnson who stated, “Every time you are called on to serve your country, you have to answer that call. I am honored to be part of the team” in an interview with FIBA.
Uganda is vying for one of three spots to ensure qualification to the next round. Nigeria beat Uganda on its way to clinch the 2015 African Championship.
By Yaw Adjei-Mintah
@YawMintYM on Twitter
