Uganda’s U23 3×3 basketball teams have departed for Benin ahead of the 2025 FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League, a tournament that also serves as qualifiers for the prestigious FIBA U23 3×3 World Cup set to be held in Xiong An, China, from September 17 to 21.
The week-long competition kicks off on Tuesday, June 3, and will run until Sunday, June 9.
The format features six stops, one held each day with participating teams vying for top honours and a coveted spot at the World Cup.
Uganda enters the tournament with both men’s and women’s teams hungry for success.
The women’s side, reigning champions from the 2024 edition hosted in Kampala, aim to defend their title and earn a back-to-back appearance on the global stage. Last year, their triumph saw them represent Uganda at the World Cup in Mongolia.
Key players returning to the women’s squad include Shillah Lamunu and Mary Priscillar Nambogo, both of whom featured in the 2024 World Cup and bring vital experience and leadership to the team.
They are joined by Tamasha Nsubuga, Martina Anyango, Sarah Namale, and Sylvia Nakituuka, rounding out a talented and determined roster.
The men’s team, which finished third in 2024 behind Algeria and Benin, will look to improve their performance and secure World Cup qualification.
The squad is led by veteran Peter Obleng, who is expected to be the linchpin of the team’s campaign. He is supported by Carl Loum, Marvin Jesse Okurut, Allawi Ssenkubuge, Omara Emmanuel and Andrew Ssendawula.
Uganda has been drawn into a challenging group featuring Kenya, Burkina Faso, Benin, Ivory Coast, and Algeria U21, all strong sides with their own World Cup ambitions.
With both squads blending seasoned leadership and young talent, Uganda is poised to make a significant impact in Benin.
The tournament offers not only a chance to defend titles and seek redemption but also to continue building Uganda’s growing reputation in international 3×3 basketball.
- Team (Women)
Mary Priscillar Nambogo, Shillah Lamunu Aber, Tamasha Nsubuga, Martina Anyango, Sarah Namale and Sylvia Nakituuka
- Team (Men)
Peter Obleng, Carl Loum, Marvin Jesse Okurut, Allawi Ssenkubuge, Omara Emmanuel and Andrew Ssendawula
