The inaugural Kira8 Basketball Tournament came to a thrilling end a fortnight ago, bringing together eight elite teams in a highly competitive showcase of Ugandan basketball. Speaking to a passionate fan who prefers to remain annonynous, he said, “ to be honest this is the most organized tournament I have seen in Uganda.” He continued “it is surprising how a club that hasn’t existed for a long time can be so innovative to change the face of basketball in Uganda at a zero cost, other clubs should surely pick a leaf or two”

The Kira 8 began on the 6th of Dec running across two weekends to see 8 teams battle for the titles. Even when a couple of teams turned down the invitation or rather opted out of the tournament, management under the leadership of Mrs Ulanga Munduru was able to organize a simple perfect competition.

Women’s Category

The Lady Jaguars enjoyed a perfect run to the finals, winning every game along the way before facing their long-time rivals, JKL Dolphins, who had beaten them in the previous NBL Finals. In a tightly contested final, the White Jaguars edged JKL Dolphins by just one point 42-41 to lift the Kira8 Women’s title.

JKL Dolphins finished as first runners-up, while Victoria She Crocs claimed third place after defeating UPDF L’THawks.

Mercy Batamuliza was named Most Valuable Player and also earned a spot on the tournament All-Star Team.

The champions took home UGX 3,000,000, runners-up earned UGX 2,000,000, and the third-placed team received UGX 1,000,000.

Men’s Category

After an early setback, the UCU Canons bounced back strongly in the second weekend, winning all their remaining games. They defeated Namuwongo Blazers in the semifinals before facing the JT Jaguars in the final.

Led by Joel Kayira, the Canons executed solid defense in the closing minutes to secure a two-point victory, crowning them champions. Kayira was deservedly named MVP.

UCU Canons walked away with UGX 3,000,000, the JT Jaguars finished as runners-up earning UGX 2,000,000, while Solid Skills claimed third place after beating Namuwongo Blazers, earning UGX 1,000,000.

3×3 Category

In the 3×3 competition, Makindye Shooters emerged champions, taking home UGX 500,000 and medals. KCCA finished as first runners-up, earning UGX 300,000.

The successful tournament set a strong foundation for the future of Kira8 Basketball. Tournament management extends sincere gratitude to all the teams and fans whose passion, commitment, and support made the event possible. At its core, Kira8 exists only because you do.