The highly anticipated 2025 National Basketball League (NBL) will officially begin on Friday, March 14, 2025, as teams prepare for an exciting new season.
This season promises fresh faces, competitive play, and a few changes that fans can look forward to.
The Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) has announced that team registration for the 2025 season will open on February 3, 2025, and close on March 3, 2025.
All teams must complete their registration through the FUBA Online E-Registration system, adhering to the 2025 Competition Rules and Licensing Guidelines.
However, clubs must note that the registration deadline is strict, with no extensions granted.
In addition to that, for the first time in the league’s history, the NBL will be managed by the NBL Management Committee, which will oversee the day-to-day operations of the season.
One of their key responsibilities will be submitting the designated venues and facilities for the season to FUBA for inspection.
These details, along with the fixture generation, are expected to be finalized by February 15, 2025.
Defending Champions and Relegation Changes
In the men’s division, the City Oilers, who have ruled the league with a remarkable ten consecutive titles, will look to extend their legacy and defend their crown.
The team will face stiff competition, with clubs like KIU Titans, Nam Blazers, and UCU Canons all vying for a chance at the championship.
In the women’s division, JKL Lady Dolphins will be looking to continue their dominance after clinching the title in the previous season.
The team will be under pressure as other clubs like UCU Lady Canons, KCCA Leopards, and KIU Rangers are all eager to claim the top spot.
However, this season will be different for some teams. Dmark Power, the five-time men’s champions, and Ndejje Angels were relegated at the end of the 2024 season.
Their spots in the league have been taken by two promoted sides: Rezlife Saints and Victoria University.
In the women’s division, YMCA Lady Hamsters and Kampala University Ladies were also relegated, with Nkumba Lady Marines and Our Saviour Banyabo stepping in as the new contenders.
Eligible Teams for the 2025 NBL Season
Men’s Division
- City Oilers
- KIU Titans
- Nam Blazers
- UCU Canons
- KCCA Panthers
- Our Saviour
- JT Jaguars
- Kampala Rockets
- Livingstone
- JKL Dolphins
- Rezlife Saints
- Victoria University
Women’s Division
- JKL Lady Dolphins
- UCU Lady Canons
- KIU Rangers
- JT Lady Jaguars
- KCCA Leopards
- Miracle Ravens
- Magic Stormers
- UPDF Lady Tomahawks
- A1 Challenge
- Nabisunsa Girls
- Nkumba Lady Marines
- Our Saviour Banyabo
As the countdown begins to the tip-off of the 2025 NBL season, basketball fans across Uganda can expect thrilling matchups, new rivalries, and high-level competition.
