Kampala will host the third edition of the most important 3×3 event on the African continent – The FIBA 3X3 Africa Cup 2019 on November 8 – 10, 2019 at the Lugogo Hockey Arena. The event comprises of both Women and Men tournaments, both Seniors and U-18. Contrary to the 3X3 norm of ‘Open networks’ where players form their teams to compete, National Federations will select players to represent their respective countries for this event.
As we have learned from Coach Hamza Mnemo, Six players for Uganda Senior Men have been shortlisted and are in camp. These include; Tonny Drileba (G, City Oilers), Ivan Lumanyika (F, JKL Dolphins), Mark Opio (G, Warriors), James Okello (F, City Oilers ), Syrus Kiviiri (G, Power) and Ivan Muhwezi (G, City Oilers). From these, only four players will be kept to represent Uganda. Soro Geofrey has been in camp but a sprained ankle makes him rather doubtful for a return ahead of the event. 3×3 rules accommodate only three players and one sub in the half court.
For the Women senior team, the following players have been shortlisted; Sarah Ageno, Abe Priscilla, Ritah Imanishimwe, Ekon Brenda, Akello Hope and Zainah L. Four Players will be chosen to represent the National Team at the event. Coach Hamza told this website that the final four for both Men and Women senior teams will be named two days to the event.
A total of twelve teams have confirmed to participate in the Men’s senior event while ten have confirmed participation in the Women event. Eight teams of Boys and girls have also confirmed participation in the U-18 category of the FIBA 3X3 Africa Cup 2019.
The 3X3 Africa Cup is an annual event in its third season with the last one having been hosted in Lome, Togo in November 2018.
3X3 is a fast growing brand of basketball and its inclusion as an Olympic discipline in June of 2017 is testament to this. This inclusion happened only seven years after 3X3 had a major event at the 2010 Youth Olympic games.
In Uganda, the 3X3 game is gaining traction and FUBA has been able to send teams to all major 3X3 events in the last three years.
So how different is 3X3 basketball?
3×3 is simple and flexible enough to be played anywhere by anybody. All you need is a hoop, a half-court and six players. Events can be staged outdoor and indoor in iconic locations to bring basketball directly to the people.
The rules are very simple and designed to make it a fast, spectacular and exciting game. The non-stop music brings an authentic urban culture atmosphere, which attracts a new young audience to the games.
Screen grab from FIBA 3×3 summarizing rules of 3X3
3×3 is an opportunity for new players, organisers and countries to go from the streets to the World Stage. The stars of the game play in a professional tour and some of the most prestigious multi-sports events.
I know it’s a new brand of basketball for the Ugandan fan but It’s going to be a good show. They (fans) are going to grow an appreciation for it. – Coach Hamza Mnemo
The event will also include shooting and dunking contests. Tickets go for 5000/= and 10,000/= (VIP).
Cucu Brian | Twitter: @Cucubrian
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