Ugandan basketball will barely pause for breath. Just 93 days after concluding the 2025 season, the 2026 National Basketball League (NBL) will tip off on February 6, 2026.
It is an unusually early start for a league that normally begins in late March, but the decision is born of necessity.
The Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) is realigning the domestic calendar with international basketball timelines, a shift shaped by hard lessons from recent seasons.
Last year’s campaign was overshadowed by controversy after Nam Blazers protested FUBA’s initial decision to submit City Oilers as Uganda’s representatives to the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
While BAL slots are meant for league champions, tight schedules have often forced the federation to name teams before the season concludes. An earlier start is meant to close that gap and avoid similar disputes.
On the court, little changes. The 2026 season will feature 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams, each playing a double round-robin. The top eight in each category will advance to the playoffs in the race for national titles.
Preparations are already underway. Registration opened on December 30 and closes strictly at midnight on January 20, 2026, with no extensions.
All teams must register through FUBA’s Online E-Registration system in line with the 2026 Competition Rules and Licensing Guidelines. Final roster verification will run from January 20 to February 1.
Reigning men’s champions Nam Blazers lead the field after ending City Oilers’ decade-long dominance, while JKL Lady Dolphins return to defend the women’s crown following a historic three-peat.
There will also be new faces. UMU Flames and UPDF Tomahawks earn promotion to the men’s top tier, while in the women’s league, Pearl Queens and Victoria She Crocs step up after promotion
Last years’ men championship had a new winner in Namuwongo Blazers while JKL Lady Dolphins defended their crown.
