Nam Blazers Make Bold Statement with Four Major Signings Amidst Enabu Speculation | Sbk Sports Mail – Sbk Sports Mail

Brian Sentuuya🇺🇬

Namuwongo Blazers have made a resounding statement in the National Basketball League (NBL) with the unveiling of four major signings, including former City Oilers stars James Okello and Tonny Drilleba. The announcement, made on Wednesday at Abja Parks in Naalya, underscores the Blazers’ intent to mount a serious title challenge. With the additions of Henry Ssebagala and Moses Mugisha from Our Saviour, the Namuwongo-based team has significantly strengthened its squad ahead of the 2025 season.

However, the biggest talking point remains the status of another former City Oilers stalwart, Jimmy Enabu. Many expected him to be unveiled alongside his former teammates Okello and Drilleba, but negotiations between Enabu and the Blazers are still ongoing. Should he finalize his move, the Blazers would boast a trio of ex-Oilers stars who have collectively shaped Ugandan basketball over the past decade. The three previously played together in the 2019 NBL Finals, where they led the Oilers to a hard-fought seven-game series victory over the Blazers. Their chemistry and deep understanding of each other’s strengths would make the Blazers an even more formidable force this season.

For now, the confirmed arrivals of Okello and Drilleba are already game-changers. Their departure from City Oilers last May was a major shock, with reports suggesting a fallout with club management over contractual and strategic disagreements. Following their exit, Okello had a brief stint in Burundi, while Drilleba played in the Democratic Republic of Congo before an injury cut his time short. Their return to Uganda and subsequent signing with the Blazers set the stage for an electrifying season.

Okello and Drilleba bring invaluable championship pedigree, having won a combined 21 NBL titles with City Oilers. Their experience and ability to perform under pressure will be crucial for a Blazers team that has often faltered in the playoffs. Individually, they remain top-tier performers—Drilleba averaged 9.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game in the 2024 season, while Okello posted 9.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. Their contributions on both ends of the floor will undoubtedly elevate the Blazers to new heights.

Speaking about his decision to join the Blazers, Okello expressed his confidence in the team’s potential. “I think the Blazers have been one of the best teams, and I felt like they missed important pieces like us. I believe our addition will elevate the team to the next level,” he stated. His confidence reflects the growing ambition within the Blazers’ camp as they prepare for a title charge.

Drilleba, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of structure in his decision-making. “I wanted to be part of something structured. When Coach Esco approached me, I felt like this was a good organization to join,” he noted. His comments highlight the Blazers’ commitment to building a professional and sustainable winning culture.

Beyond these marquee signings, the Blazers have also reinforced their squad with the additions of Mugisha and Ssebagala, two of Our Saviour’s brightest talents. Mugisha, in particular, was a revelation last season, averaging 12.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting 39.9% from the field. His ability to dominate the boards and contribute offensively makes him a vital asset for the team.

Mugisha’s motivation for joining the Blazers is clear—he wants to compete at the highest level. “I wanted a team that would compete,” he remarked. His hunger and determination align perfectly with the Blazers’ ambitions as they gear up for what promises to be a fiercely contested season.

Ssebagala, on the other hand, is equally eager to prove himself on a bigger stage. Last season, he averaged 10 points per game and demonstrated his ability to perform consistently. Expressing his excitement about the move, he assured Blazers fans of his commitment. “I am coming to compete, and I’m going to give it my best,” he stated. His arrival adds another layer of depth to an already impressive squad.

As part of their restructuring, the Blazers have also parted ways with Joseph Chuma, Peter Cheng, Daniel Gaaki, Carlos Ochi, and Chuol Nyuot. Additionally, Elly Okello will be sent out on loan, allowing him to gain more experience before potentially rejoining the squad in the future. These changes reflect the Blazers’ strategic approach to assembling a team capable of challenging for top honors.

With the 2025 NBL season set to tip off on March 14, excitement around the Blazers continues to build. Their first opponent is yet to be determined, but expectations will be sky-high. Fans will be eager to see how the new signings integrate into the team and whether their presence will translate into on-court dominance.

Should Enabu finalize his move to the Blazers, it would mark one of the most significant transfers in recent NBL history. His presence would not only strengthen the team’s backcourt but also provide invaluable leadership in crucial moments. However, even if negotiations fall through, the Blazers will still enter the new season with a formidable squad, primed for a deep playoff run.

The overarching question remains—will these moves be enough to dethrone City Oilers and secure the Blazers’ first-ever NBL title? The upcoming season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with teams bolstering their rosters in anticipation of a fierce battle for supremacy. One thing is certain: the Blazers are no longer just contenders—they are serious title challengers.

As the countdown to March 14 continues, all eyes will be on Nam Blazers. Their aggressive recruitment signals their intent to break City Oilers’ dominance and usher in a new era in Ugandan basketball. With the potential addition of Enabu still looming, the story is far from over. For now, the Blazers have done their part—what remains is to prove their mettle on the court.