The Miracle Basketball Academy held the 3rd edition of its Back to School Basketball Tournament on Saturday, with a record 52 teams taking part.
Hosted at the Miracle Centre Cathedral grounds in Rubaga, the daylong event featured both male and female divisions, with the winning teams taking home cash prizes.
Team Meow Meow defeated Hana Uncles 11-9 in the boys’ final, while All-Star International Babies edged out Cobasa Girls 15-9 to claim the girls’ title.
Pastor Robert Kayanja and the guest of honor, Milton Chebet, the Assistant General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, handed out medals and a 1 million cash prize to the winners.
Despite receiving the invitation on short notice, Mr. Chebet brought 10 basketballs, which were received by Pastor Kayanja.
What they said
“We have teams participating in the national leagues, and we want the academy to serve as a feeder system. We are very grateful for the balls because they will directly help us achieve our goals,” Pastor Kayanja noted.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Mr. Chebet emphasized the state’s desire to partner with organizations impacting youth through sports.
“Looking at your tournament, I was telling the organizers that this is a massive event. With over 500 participants, it serves as a critical talent identification platform that can transform lives, communities, and the country at large.”
He advised the athletes to keep the bigger picture in mind during such events, reminding them that they never know who might be watching.
“The national team players of tomorrow will come from events like this. We will see these athletes in top clubs and on the international stage. Today, sports is a major industry that generates significant income. We are honored to witness this event”.
“The government remains committed to supporting sports development across the country, and seeing community facilities like this in action is truly encouraging.”
