The UPDF Ladyhawks, 2023 Division 1 Champions who finished the season with 100% record have made some serious business ahead of their debut season in the National Basketball League (NBL).

The Ladyhawks have been quiet most of the off-season and made a couple of changes, including what could be, the biggest transfer in the Women’s Category.

On Friday 12th Jan, the Ladyhawks held a friendly game with the Gazelles U-18 and despite the game being tight in the first three quarters, they managed to blow the younglings in the fourth quarter, getting a 20 point victory.

During the game, fans got to see what the new look and tactics of the UPDF could be like in their debut season.

New signings

• Elsy Khaboshe
• Kisoboka Naluyima
• Nasiimu Mutesi
• Likicho Martha Patience
• Namyalo Christine

How do these signing impact UPDF

It is yet to be known whether the Ladyhawks will add a few pieces before the transfer deadline, however, the current signings point to major changes in the Ladyhawks playing style.

During their title run in 2023, UPDF employed one major tactic, the high/ full court pressure. This method was very effective for them, resulting in numerous forced turnovers and fast breaks.

During the finals against YMCA Lady Hamstars, the Ladyhawks got punished a number of times for using this tactic. The Hamstars, used the overhead pass tactic and with just 1 or 2 passes, they could easily beat the UPDF defense and get easy buckets. As a result, UPDF decided to adjust to zonal and man defense which worked magic.

The signing of Elsy Khaboshe is perhaps the biggest transfer this window because of how she changes the Ladyhawks style.

Elsy showed her quality in Division 1 last season and it’s safe to point out that she is easily one of the most dangerous guards in the league because of her range of skills and ability to make her teammates better.

When on the ball, she can take on anyone and beat them with ease and when given space, she can shoot the three ball as good as anyone. She also showed that she can attack the rim, with her size and strength, she finds a way to beat the defense with multiple types of finishes.

One will argue, this was in Division 1, can she replicate the same in the NBL. People should not forget that UPDF finished with 100% record and adding a piece like Elsy improves them and also improves her game, given the Ladyhawks play at the same or higher level than last season.

Elsy and Nantume 2 man game.

Patience Nantume, one of the fastest players in the league has found a new partner and this could be the most dynamic duo.

When you speak of 2 man game, most people will assume it a guard and a big man. This time round, Elsy and Nantume, have a chance of being the best duo because their skills compliment each other.

Nantume, just like Elsy can play for you in the point guard role and if given space, she’ll punish you from behind the arc.

With the 2 on the floor, you’ll have to assume that UPDF will shoot the 3 ball quite a lot, and that means the defenders will be drawn to the perimeter.

Given their high IQ, they will be able to occassionally make extra passes, find different outlets, creating for their teammates.

A scenario, with patience on the ball, she can easily draw the defense out, and Elsy can have space to drive.

With Nantume’s pace, you’ll expect that when she’s not on the ball, Elsy can find her on fast break. She exhibited that aspect of her game during the finals against them last year.

Kisoboka Naluyima and Christine Namyalo are both from high school. Kisoboka ‘possible’ has very good ball handling skills and you’d think that she may be used as an impact substitute off the bench for Nantume.

Christine on the other hand has played for the National team at different age grade levels and has acquired some experience. Her height is good, and she’ll slot in a forward position.

Nasiimu Mutesi is one of the multi talented sports people in the country. Basketball, Netball, Handball are some of the games where she plays in the country’s top division. Her fitness is unquestioned but her skill set in basketball isn’t very top, she however has room to improve. With her, you’re guaranteed rebounds more on the defensive end.

Likicho Martha is another player who joined from Angels. She has been with team even during the playoffs last year and maybe she has fit in with them already. Despite having NBL experience, she’ll most likely be coming off the bench.