As Namuwongo Blazers gear up for their Basketball Africa League (BAL) debut on Saturday against hosts Dar City, veteran guard Jimmy Enabu believes the team is ready for the challenge.
The 2025 FUBA National Basketball League finalists are drawn alongside Comoros’ Djabal Basket Iconi in the Road to BAL qualifiers, with the top two sides advancing to the Elite 16 round.
“We set this as one of our goals at the start of the season, and now it’s an opportunity to qualify for the main tournament,” Enabu said.
After days of training at Lugogo Arena, the Steven Nyeko–coached side arrived in Dar es Salaam earlier this week.
The Blazers have been strengthened by new signings, including American guard John Murray and Nigerian forward John Obasa, both of whom bring BAL and international experience. Bereal Jr Jaycson Ray and Muhumuza Favor Mutuwa also join the squad to add depth.
They link up with core players James Okello, Innocent Ochera, Peter Obleng, Ivan Muhwezi, Joel Lukoji Banza, Jimmy Enabu, Tonny Drileba, and Anthony Chukwurah.
“Every season has its challenges. The team has some young players with big aspirations, so having the chance to mentor them is a major task,” Enabu noted.
Namuwongo Blazers face hosts and favorites Dar City in their opening game tomorrow at 7 p.m., before taking on Djabal Basket Iconi on Sunday at 7 p.m. at the International School Library in Dar es Salaam.
