The Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) has confirmed that beverage company Castle Lite will not be renewing its sponsorship of the National Basketball League (NBL) ahead of the 2025 season.
FUBA Vice President Hudson Ssegamwenge made the announcement during Tuesday’s Sport This Morning show on NBS Sport, where he revealed that the beer brand opted out due to internal company reasons.
“We had two partners last season—Stanbic Bank and Castle Lite—but unfortunately, Castle Lite opted out because of certain reasons in the company,” Ssegamwenge stated.
He, however, expressed optimism that the federation will secure a new sponsor before the season begins on Friday, March 21.
“But we still have Stanbic Bank, and we’re optimistic that in a few days, we shall have another partner,” he added.
Castle Lite had signed a one-year sponsorship deal worth UGX 500 million in May 2024, becoming the league’s title sponsor.
The partnership was officially launched at Fairway Hotel in an event attended by key stakeholders, including FUBA CEO Marcus Kwikiriza, FUBA General Secretary Ssegamwenge, and representatives from Stanbic Bank, NBS Sport, and Fairway Hotel.
The agreement was renewable based on performance, but the brand has now chosen not to continue its association with the league.
Despite the setback, the 2025 NBL season is set for an exciting start, with two blockbuster matchups on opening night.
Reigning champions City Oilers will face Namuwongo Blazers, while the JT Lady Jaguars take on JKL Lady Dolphins in a clash of title contenders.
This season also marks a major shift in the league’s structure, with games set to be played at multiple venues beyond the traditional arenas at Lugogo and YMCA.
UCU Mukono, ABJA Park, and Rezlife Lubowa have been added to the list of host venues, expanding the league’s reach and accessibility.
