Head coach Mandy Juruni has already turned his focus to the next test after Uganda’s tough start at the FIBA 2027 World Cup Qualifiers.
The Uganda Silverbacks fell 90-68 to the Angola national basketball team at the Borg El Arab Arena on Thursday, a result that underlined the gap between the sides in Group D.
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Uganda’s undoing was simple, 35 turnovers that Angola converted into 40 points. The former African champions pressed full court from the opening tip, disrupted Uganda’s rhythm and set the tone early. By halftime, the Silverbacks were already chasing the game.
There was improvement after the break, but the damage had been done.
Still, Juruni chose perspective over panic.
“We are playing the African champions,” he said. “We have to learn from this and win the next game. I loved the fight we put up after a small stretch. We can go back, see where we can be better and focus on the next game. We have to give credit to the other team.”
The turnovers, he admitted, were decisive.
“They played really well in the first half, and there were a lot of turnovers. They scored 40 points off them. We have to take care of the ball as a team. It’s the guards’ responsibility, but everyone must help protect the ball.”
There were positives. Uganda’s bench scored 24 points and brought energy, especially in the third quarter when the Silverbacks showed resilience.
“I loved the energy from the bench,” Juruni added. “The guys who came in gave us a lift. There were positives, and we’ll build from them.”
Attention now shifts to Saturday’s clash with the Mali national basketball team, who beat Egypt 86-77 in their opener. Uganda must respond quickly to keep their qualification hopes alive.
“It’s going to be a lot of work,” Juruni said. “We have to stay together and play our game.”
The lesson against Angola was harsh. Against Mali, the Silverbacks will seek a response and a chance at redemption, later hoping they can be among the top 3 and get into the next qualification window.
