A1 Challenge has numerous challenges ahead of the 2025 NBL season and there is very little they can do about them for now.
The biggest problem they have is the lack of players and with the player registration deadline having already passed, they have to wait till the mid-season transfer window which feels like an eternity for them.
At the moment, A1 has 13 players registered for the NBL season but sources reveal that only 7 players will be available for them.
Faith Apio and Sarah Nassuna who had joined from Our Savior Banyabo are both said to have opted out for different reasons.
Esther Marion, Stellah Kiberenge, Anitah Wataka and Cathy Kekimuli are all allegedly not part of the team anymore according to inside sources.
With this, only 7 players remain and can they make any noise with these numbers?
Squad Available
- Sarah Yaweh
- Phoebe Apio
- Rebecca Namatovu
- Shamiah Namujju
- Sylvia Namuddu
- Sharon Kilokya
- Emily Katrina Nerima
What does this mean for A1 Challenge?
In order to perform/survive in the NBL, having a deep squad is crucial and A1 is starting on the back foot in this regard.
With such numbers, there is no room for injuries. If God forbid they got an injury that keeps a player out for a while, it’d be catastrophic.
The players on the roster have to be very well conditioned as they will play heavy minutes.
The management and coach staff have to make sure they keep their players healthy, physically and mentally strong in order to push forward.
The players also have to be available every single time. When you know the challenge that your team is facing, you have to sacrifice and show up every time there is a game because if you don’t, you’ll be letting your teammates down.
In an interview with the new Coach Juma Osman, he revealed their targets for the new season.
“We want to be competitive this year and get back in playoffs bracket” Osman commented.
“The goal is to be in the playoffs first and we’ll work upwards from there” he added.
We are yet to see how many players shall be available for A1 in the first round but do you think they can make the playoffs?
The NBL tips-off on 21st March 2025.
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