Plans to take top-flight basketball to Hoima have been shelved after strong resistance from clubs forced the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) to rethink its second-round schedule.
The federation had earmarked the newly built Hoima City Stadium as a host venue for a cluster of National Basketball League games slated for May 22–24.
The move was part of a broader strategy to decentralize the sport and tap into new audiences ahead of AFCON 2027 preparations.
However, what was initially seen as a progressive step quickly unraveled after club managers pushed back, citing unsustainable expenses tied to travel and accommodation.
FUBA Vice President and General Secretary Hudson Ssegamwenge confirmed that the decision followed extensive consultations between the federation, league management, and participating teams.
“We had engaged the league managers earlier and they were on board, but the clubs later expressed serious concerns about the financial burden,” Ssegamwenge said. “After discussions, we agreed to pause the idea and revisit it at a later stage.”
Estimates indicated that each team would need nearly Shs5 million to cover a three-day stay in Hoima—covering transport, lodging, and meals for a delegation of around 20 people.
The figure significantly exceeds both the Shs4.5 million seasonal subscription fee and typical matchday expenses incurred at established venues such as the Lugogo Indoor Arena and YMCA Court Wandegeya.
The now-cancelled Hoima leg had promised marquee matchups, including a high-profile showdown between Namuwongo Blazers and City Oilers—a rematch of last season’s league finals.
Despite the setback, Hoima will still host international action later this year, with the FIBA AfroBasket U18 Zone V Qualifiers scheduled for June 14–20.
Meanwhile, the second round of the National Basketball League will proceed as planned, tipping off on April 24 in Kampala.
Opening night fixtures will see JT Lady Jaguars face UCU Lady Canons, followed by a men’s clash between Sommet Basketball Club and JT Jaguars.
FUBA has indicated that alternative venues for the affected fixtures will be announced soon, with games expected to be distributed across established courts including UCU Mukono, Abja Park Naalya, Rezlife Lubowa, Jaguars Den Kira, and Hamz Stadium Nakivubo.
