Basketball in Africa

D'MARK Power aim to bounce back from last year's first round exit in the FUBA playoffs and all the way to the championship. Nkumba are just starting to rebuild their team.
Today at Lugogo, the two get a chance to test their progress in a low-key affair as the young National Basketball League swings back in action following the conclusion of the East and Central Africa Inter Cities tournament.
Both sides recorded victories in their opening matches of the season but even if their paths cross today, Power and Nkumba are really headed to different destinations, at least in ambition.
Rebuilding process
In a sense, both clubs are rebuilding but for totally different reasons. Power, as ever, are gunning for the championship and have made a string of major signings, not least reigning Finals MVP Norman Blick. Nkumba Marines are just trying to find their feet, again.
"This year, we are not so much a contender for the championship," admitted Nkumba coach Timothy Odeke.
"But rather, we just want to find our footing because many of our crucial players left and we haven't found suitable replacements."
By contrast, Power star Isaac Afidra believes they have assembled a team that can propel them back to the title.
"This year, we have a stronger and more balanced team than last year," said Afidra. "We have more depth so even if we get injuries, we have good replacements."
Elsewhere, Charging Rhinos take on the KIU Titans in their second match back in the top flight, where they have incredible history.
National Basketball League:
Men
Rhinos v KIU (3.30 pm)
Power v Nkumba (7.30 pm)
Women
Sparks v Gladiators (5.30 pm)