The basketball calendar is set for a major addition this November with the launch of the Kira 8 Basketball Tournament, a new competition featuring eight elite men’s and women’s teams.
The event, organised by JT Sports Club, will be held at the Jaguars Den in Kira Municipality.
The tournament, which marks its inaugural edition this year, aims to offer a high-level competitive platform for top teams while also raising awareness and support for autism.
According to organisers, the event will run under the theme “Full Court for All: Hoops for Autism Awareness,” and will include community outreach components focused on neurodiversity and inclusion.
Lubambula Leo, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, confirmed that preparations are underway and that the event will feature teams from across Uganda, selected based on competitive merit.
“We are calling on sponsors, fans, and administrators to come together and support both the sport and the cause,” he said in a statement released by the club.
JT Sports Club, which was founded in 2022, is home to the JT Jaguars (men) and JT Lady Jaguars (women) and has been active in promoting basketball in the greater Kira area.
The Kira 8 is expected to build on that foundation by attracting top talent and positioning the Jaguars Den as a competitive and socially conscious venue.
In addition to the basketball matches, the tournament will feature a “Kira Night Lights” experience, aimed at enhancing fan engagement and creating a festive atmosphere during evening fixtures.
Details on participating teams, fixtures, and ticketing are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Organisers say the event will serve both as a competitive showcase and a platform for advocacy, with proceeds supporting local autism programs.
The Kira 8 Tournament becomes the latest in a growing number of sports events in Uganda that combine athletic competition with social impact, as basketball continues to expand its reach beyond the court.
