In a significant move ahead of the 2025 National Basketball League (NBL) season, the Namuwongo Blazers have made major strides with their latest signings.
The experienced and formidable duo of Tonny Drileba and James Okello have joined the Blazers, bringing with them a wealth of experience, elite skills, and a winning mentality that will be crucial in their quest for success.
Both players arrive at Namuwongo Blazers after parting ways with the City Oilers, where they helped dominate Ugandan basketball.
With a combined 21 NBL titles between them, Drileba and Okello’s move to the Blazers will provide a boost of both skill and leadership to the squad as they prepare for the upcoming season, slated to tip off in March.
Tonny Drileba: A Complete Guard with Defensive and Playmaking Prowess
Tonny Drileba, a seasoned shooting guard, has been a stalwart in the NBL for years, known for his sharpshooting, playmaking, and defensive capabilities.
In the 2024 season, Drileba averaged 9.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.4 steals across 14 games, highlighting his versatility on both ends of the court.
His 48.9% field goal shooting is a testament to his efficient scoring, while his ability to create opportunities for teammates with nearly four assists per game underscores his vision and leadership as a playmaker.
Defensively, Drileba has always been a tough competitor, and his tenacity at stealing the ball will be a major asset for Namuwongo Blazers in disrupting opposing offenses.
Drileba’s ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game will be a critical factor in the Blazers’ lineup.
Whether as a scorer, creator, or defender, his all-around skill set makes him a player who can influence every aspect of the game.
James Okello: A Dominant Force in the Paint and On the Boards
On the other hand, James Okello, a powerful and athletic power forward, will bring his strength and rebounding prowess to Namuwongo Blazers.
Okello, who averaged 9.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 13 games last season with the Oilers, has been a key figure in the paint for his previous team, making his presence felt both offensively and defensively.
His 48.1% shooting from the field demonstrates his efficiency in the paint, where he is a constant threat to finish through contact or get second-chance opportunities for his team.
Okello’s rebounding numbers are equally impressive, making him one of the league’s best when it comes to securing boards, particularly on the defensive end.
His size and athleticism allow him to battle against bigger opponents, making him a key defensive asset and a force on the glass.
Okello’s leadership on the court will also be invaluable to the Blazers. His experience in high-pressure situations, backed by his previous NBL championships, makes him a reliable player when the game is on the line.
Impact on Namuwongo Blazers
The addition of Drileba and Okello strengthens the Namuwongo Blazers in both the backcourt and frontcourt.
Drileba’s versatility as a guard complements the Blazers’ offensive flow, while Okello’s physicality and presence in the paint add much-needed depth to the team’s interior game.
Together, they form a duo that can dominate on both ends of the floor, combining offensive efficiency, playmaking, rebounding, and defensive intensity.
Their experience in the NBL and past championship success with the City Oilers means they understand what it takes to win at the highest level.
Their leadership will help guide the Blazers through the challenges of the upcoming season and elevate the team’s competitive edge.
As the 2025 NBL season draws closer, all eyes will be on the Namuwongo Blazers, who have certainly bolstered their squad with these key acquisitions.
However they are not the only two players added to the squad as both Moses Mugisha and Henry Ssebagala crossed from Our Saviour to also boast the squad strength ahead of the season which tips off on March 14th.
