Uganda’s basketball veterans are preparing to return to the court as the LEGACY Basketball League 2026 seeks to promote fitness, fellowship, mental wellbeing and continued participation in the sport.
Scheduled for November 13 to December 12, the inaugural minileague will reunite former players, giving them an opportunity to revive old rivalries, strengthen friendships and remain active long after their competitive careers.
Participating teams are expected to include Lugogo Wazee A and B, No Country Nakasero, Silomaville, Penters Kyanja Vets, Kirinnya Vets, Entebbe Riders Vets and Abja Park Vets, featuring former Harp Hamilton veterans.
Tournament director Chris Kyembabe says the initiative goes beyond competition, providing a platform for veterans to maintain healthy lifestyles while addressing mental health challenges through physical activity and social interaction.
“The LEGACY Basketball League is about more than bringing veterans back to the court. It is about preserving the bonds that basketball creates, promoting healthy lifestyles and giving former players a reason to remain active in the sport. These players have contributed to basketball in different ways, and their experience, networks and passion remain valuable assets to the game,” Kyembabe said.
He added that the league could also create mentorship opportunities, allowing younger players to benefit from the experience of former athletes. The league will feature two conferences, with the top two teams from each advancing to the playoffs.
The first three weeks will be devoted to regular-season games, followed by two weeks of playoffs, culminating in an awards ceremony on December 12. Each team can register up to 20 players, with a maximum of 15 eligible to feature in a game.
Men aged 35 and above and women aged 33 and above will be eligible. A separate provision allows teams to include two or three female players aged 28 and above. Games are scheduled for Fridays from 7pm to 11pm and Saturdays from 2pm to 6:30pm.
Organisers expect to use two courts at the former GEMS Cambridge facility in Butabika, now associated with JEPH International University. A media day and conference draw are planned ahead of the opening games.
Organisers hope to expand the league beyond basketball by introducing financial literacy workshops, investment education and programmes connecting veterans with younger generations.
Plans are also underway for a longer competition window in 2027, potentially running from September to November. The organisers are in final discussions with potential partners, including Cornerstone Asset Managers, Nile Breweries and Prudential Insurance, while the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) is providing technical support.
For Kyembabe and his team, the ambition is to build a lasting community where former players can remain physically active, share experiences and contribute to basketball’s development.