City Oilers last training before flying out:
City Oilers, Uganda’s basketball powerhouse, is off for their 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) group phase campaign in Cairo, Egypt.
The team, comprised of a blend of seasoned players and promising talent, is set to face stiff competition in one of Africa’s most prestigious club tournament due April 19.
The roster boasts a mix of experience and rising stars, with six players hailing from the National Basketball League: Tonny Drilleba, Fayed Baale, James Okello, Titus Lual, Ivan Muhwezi, and the promising youngster Allawi Ssenkubuge – who left on Saturday morning.
Additionally, returning players Dane Miller, Robinson Opong, and Brandon Ssebirumbi, who represented the team in the Elite 16 in South Africa last year, add depth and experience to the squad.
American imports Rembert Patrick Ronald, a skilled point guard, and Bashir Ahmed, a versatile forward, bring a wealth of international experience to the team.
Rembert’s basketball journey spans across multiple countries, including Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Lebanon, and Serbia, among others.
Meanwhile, Bashir, who attended St John’s College, has showcased his talent in Saudi Arabia and Kosovo, among other places.
Adding to the team’s diversity is Khaman Maluach, the Elevate player from NBA Academy, who is set to feature in his third BAL season after stints with Cobra in South Sudan and AS Duanes in Senegal.
Under the guidance of former Morocco International Karim Nesba, who brings both international playing experience and coaching expertise, City Oilers are poised to tackle formidable opponents such as Al Ahly (Egypt), Al Ahly Benghazi (Libya), and Bangui (Central African Republic).
Nesba will be supported by City Oilers coaches Andrew Tendo and Ben Komakech in steering the team through the BAL group phase.
City Oilers Roster:
Allawi Ssenkubuge
Tony Drilleba
James Okello
Titus Lual
Fayed Baale
Ivan Muhwezi
Khaman Maluach (NBA Academy)
Dane Miller Jr Anthony
Opong Odoch Robinson
Brandon Sebirumbi
Rembert Patrick Ronald
Ahmed Bashir Mohammed
