Uganda Silverbacks arrived in Alexandria determined to keep their 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup dream alive.
Forward Deng Geu has joined the squad in Egypt, strengthening the team ahead of a demanding first qualifying window.
However, head coach Goran Lojo is absent due to a medical emergency and advised not to travel, leaving Mandy Juruni in charge for one of Uganda’s most important assignments.
Back home, the impact of national duty is already visible. In the National Basketball League, JT Jaguars have not been playing because they are without key player Ian Duncan Lubwama, who answered the national call.
Sixteen African nations which will eventually reduce to twelve are competing for five World Cup slots. The qualification campaign began in November and runs until March 2027.
Teams were seeded based on past performances, with South Sudan and Ivory Coast among the top seeds. Uganda was placed in Pot 7 alongside regional rivals Rwanda.
Uganda now enters Group D, where they face Mali, Egypt and Angola in Alexandria, a tough test.
The Silverbacks open against Angola on Friday, February 26, then play Mali the following day. After a rest on February 28, they return to face hosts Egypt on March 1.
The same opponents await them again in July when qualifiers continue.
The target is to finish in the top three to reach the next round. To stay in contention, Uganda must secure at least one win in each window.
Uganda has never featured at the Basketball World Cup, but recent progress offers belief.
Many still recall the emotional AfroBasket qualification in 2014 at Lugogo, a moment that marked the country’s return to continental relevance. Since then, the team has steadily improved.
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This window brings renewed hope. Sibande Nike Dejur adds scoring power, joining U.S.-based Ugandan players, including several who represented the Junior Silverbacks like Tejan Rugette during their AfroBasket qualification campaign.
In Alexandria, the goal is to win, win again in July and stay in the race.
