Basketball in Africa

By Felix Eupal
It might be two months before the start of the 2015 Airtel Fuba National Basketball League season, but teams are already in backroom politics trying to secure players they believe can make them better. Felix Eupal looks at the most sought out players for the upcoming season.
Suudi Ulanga
Despite his ball handling and shooting skills, Ulanga has no Fuba title to his name. Yet, it is something he craves so much. He first played for Falcons and has now given four years to Uganda Christian University Canons, whom he wants to leave.
Tiger Head Power, City Oilers, Stanbic Warriors, and StarTimes Falcons are all pursuing him. His offensive attributes would make any of them tick, especially if one is to consider that City Oilers and Power will be competing at the Africa Zone Five Club Championships.
Geoffrey Soro
The powerful forward has been a marvel for coach Walker Obedi and the Ndejje Angels. In 2010, he had his biggest breakthrough, as he was among the four selected players to attend the Sprite Basketball Without Boarders camp in South Africa.
He then won the Fuba league regular season MVP award in 2012. But last season, he was a shadow of himself, something he attributes to injury. However, he is still one of the best forwards in the league and City Oilers and Power have both placed offers for him since his contract with Ndejje is done.
Jonah Otim
If it weren't for Otim's sublime performances last season, Ndejje wouldn't have made the play-offs. The shooting guard produced on all fronts: defensively and offensively. He is, however, a free agent now. And whoever lands his signature will get real value for money because of his wonderful all-round game.
Michael Makiadi
The Kampala International University (KIU) Titans' centre Makiadi was one of the best rebounders and offered a lot on defence. Power is vying for his signature to ensure that they can fix their defensive problems.
Makiadi is a free agent at the moment but has been non-committal to any side so far, which has improved his bargaining badge.