The Oilers, like other teams, have also realigned their roaster with several new additions.
Eight time National Basketball League champions City Oilers return to familiar territory when the National Basketball League tips off on Friday.
The Oilers, like other teams, have also realigned their roaster with several new additions.
Among the fresh faces are small forwards Julius Walujo and South Sudan’s Mike Ngut, together with power forward Tukunde Julius and youngster Ssenkubuge Allawi, a shooting guard.
Luak Raui returns to the side after his club Zenit St. Petersburg failed to seal a play-off spot, adding to the roster which head coach Mandy Juruni says gives them an extra dimension.
“We have reinforced based on the positions we lacked last season, especially in size, so I am excited about our team this year,” Juruni told Pulse Sports.
“Players who have won eight championships can’t have the same hunger. This time we have players who are motivated to win, which gives us a different look.”
“Therefore, the core who have been with us will be forced to work harder because they know there is competition,” Juruni added.
The coach who has won the last nine league titles stated that each of the new additions would undoubtedly help the team differently.
“Walujo will give you hustle play in the game. I like his effort, also having a good playmaker like Bbale and Titus is great."
“Kol returned to Uganda after being in the states for years, and he learnt a lot, same with Mike (Ngog), who also played for South Sudan’s Cobra at BAL.”
“Collectively, they bring a lot of experience, and that’s something we’ve lacked over the years."
“This is one of those competitive teams we’ve had compared to recent years. The chemistry, toughness and experience they have will help us go a long way," Juruni stressed.
Oilers had already signed former UCU duo Bbale Fayed and Titus Lual, who also took part in their BAL qualification campaign.
Mandy Juruni’s side tips off their title defence this Friday against KIU Titans at the MTN Arena Lugogo.
City Oilers new signings
Bbale Fayed, Titus Lual, Walujo Edrine, Mike Ngong, Ssenkubuge Allawi, Luak Raui and Kol Tukunde, Henry Mulira
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