In a week draped in sorrow across Uganda’s basketball community, mourning the untimely passing of Micheal Makumbi, a national talent who proudly represented the country at the FIBA U23 3×3 Nations League, the National Basketball League marches on.
This Wednesday, as teams suit up across three key venues, one fixture stands out, not just for its competitiveness but for its compelling human story.
When the JT Lady Jaguars step onto the Lugogo Indoor Arena court to face the UCU Lady Canons, all eyes will be on one player, Shakira Nanvubya.
This isn’t just another game for Nanvubya, it’s a return to familiar territory, a reunion with her former teammates and a face-off with her National Team coach. It’s the first time she’ll meet her old side since her departure and the moment is as charged as it is personal.
Nanvubya, now donning the JT Lady Jaguars jersey, has already begun carving out a new legacy under the guidance of coach Sudi Ulanga, the Jaguars have had an impressive start to the season, five games played, four wins and just one loss.
The lone defeat came at the hands of the KCCA Leopards, a game that Nanvubya believes was lost more in mindset than in physical battle.
“I feel good, I feel normal, and I think I’m ready,” Nanvubya shared in a heartfelt conversation with the club media.
“The people that I know, that I’ve played with, they know me and I know them. So there’s not any nerves. I’m ready and I think my team is also ready.”
For Nanvubya, tomorrow’s game is more than a competitive fixture, it’s a measuring stick. It’s a moment of personal growth and team belief.
She recognizes the importance of attitude and has learned to find value even in defeat.
“I have a good attitude because I think that game we lost because of the attitude. I think we didn’t come to compete with our bodies,” she said.
“But also it was good for us to lose. So after that, it’s not going to be easy and those moments will be there. But how we come up, that’s what matters.”
With a small burn injury on her skin that she downplayed as “just the skin, not a muscle or bone injury,” Nanvubya assures fans she’s fit and eager to compete.
Her focus is clear, her excitement unmistakable and her commitment to her new team unwavering.
“Today’s practice and how the ladies came out and everything, I think we are ready. I believe in this team and these ladies and I’m excited about tomorrow’s game, playing my ex-team. I’m getting better, I’m not yet there but I’m getting better.”
As the basketball world continues to mourn the loss of one of its brightest young stars, the sport itself offers a moment of resilience and redemption.
For Shakira Nanvubya and the JT Lady Jaguars, Wednesday is more than just game day. It’s a step forward, a clash of past and present and perhaps, the beginning of something extraordinary.
Other Games on Wednesday:
At Lugogo Indoor Arena:
- JT Lady Jaguars vs UCU Lady Canons
- Livingstone vs UCU Canons
At Abja Park:
- Nabisunsa vs Nkumba Lady Marines
- KIU Titans vs RezLife Saints
At YMCA Wandegeya:
- Miracle Eaglets vs Magic Stormers
- Victoria Crocs vs Sommet BC
