By Daniel Nyeko
The global trajectory of Ugandan basketball reached a new milestone on March 4, 2026, when the Correcaminos UAT Femenil franchise officially announced the signing of Uganda Gazelles star forward Jannon Jaye Otto.
The announcement, broadcast via the club’s digital platforms with the welcoming tagline “Bienvenida al nido!”—Spanish for “Welcome to the nest”—confirmed the arrival of a high-caliber offensive engine to Mexico’s Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional Femenil.
For Jannon, an American-Ugandan international from Victorville, California, the move to Ciudad Victoria represents a calculated step into one of Latin America’s most physically demanding professional circuits.
Standing at 1.83 meters, the versatile forward—officially listed as Alero—brings a sophisticated skill set that has already garnered international acclaim.
A Proven Continental Pedigree
The Mexican outfit is acquiring a player whose reputation as a “bucket getter” was cemented during the historic 2023 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket campaign.
Otto finished the tournament as the top scorer with 128 points, propelling Uganda to a 7th-place finish and earning a prestigious spot in the All-Star Five. Her tactical versatility—characterized by an elite mid-range game and the ability to stretch defenses from the perimeter—makes her a valuable asset for a Correcaminos side determined to assert dominance in the 2026 season.
Adapting to Mexico’s National Professional Basketball League
Since Jannon’s arrival was formalized in early March, she has quickly integrated into the “Corre” tactical identity. At the Gimnasio Multidisciplinario de la UAT, she has maintained her technical composure while adapting to the high-intensity, transition-heavy style of Mexico’s top flight.
The move also underscores the personal sacrifices inherent in the professional game. Otto was recently joined in Mexico by her mother, who traveled to support her from the stands—a poignant reminder that while the Gazelle continues to roam globally, her foundation remains family-oriented.
A Yardstick for Ugandan Excellence
Otto’s transition to the LNBP serves as a significant yardstick for the professionalism of Ugandan basketball talent. By consistently securing contracts in competitive leagues across Europe and North America, she is providing a roadmap for the next generation of East African players.
As the 2026 season progresses, the eyes of the Ugandan sports fraternity will remain fixed on the Correcaminos UAT franchise in Tamaulipas, awaiting the next decisive scoring contribution from their premier international star.
The writer is a sports enthusiast, analyst, teacher, and finance specialist.
