Malinga eager to inspire Uganda at AfroBasket 2015

KAMPALA (AfroBasket 2015) - Henry Malinga has become one of Uganda's top basketball players over the past few years, and he is making sure to introduce himself to a wider audience at this year’s AfroBasket edition in Tunisia.

Uganda, nicknamed the Silverbacks, will make their debut in Africa’s flagship tournament from 19 to 30 August in Nabeul and Tunis.

Last September, Malinga and a group of players that included Lumanyika Ivan, USA-born John Balwigaire stormed Uganda into AfroBasket 2015 after finishing second behind Egypt and ahead of Rwanda, Kenya and Somalia in Africa Zone 5 qualifier held in the Ugandan capital Kampala.

Point-guard Balwigaire, who played collegiate basketball at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, was eventually dubbed Most Outstanding Player of the tournament, while the 36-year-old Malinga was praised for his leadership role.

Although Uganda coaching staff is yet to announce the team’s preparation plans, Malinga, a 1.97m center, is already working in his chances to showcase his game in Tunisia.

"As a local player, it’s a privilege and a great opportunity to be able participate in such a big competition. It is a dream come true for Uganda basketball," Malinga said to FIBA.com

"I’ll do everything in my power to get a chance to be in the Uganda team that goes to Tunisia.

I hope to be selected and inspire my fellow Ugandans in Africa’s  top basketball showcase - Malinga

Uganda’s qualification for AfroBasket resurfaced the country’s passion for basketball, and players and coaches are cherishing the moment.

They have tried to qualify for AfroBasket on a number of occasions, but have repeatedly fell short to Rwanda and Egypt, two top contenders in the region.

However, when Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) was handed the hosts duties of the qualifier tournament, they ensured to capitalise from previous mistakes.

They pledged to make their countrymen and women proud, playing competitive basketball. 

"We are all very excited and looking forward for the African tournament," Malinga explained.

But facing the likes of hosts Tunisia, Nigeria and Central African Republic in Group A, it is likely to be quite a challenge for debutant Uganda.

Still, Malinga remains upbeat about their competitive spirit.

"[AfroBasket 2015] is like any other sport, you go out there, show what game you have, and compete the best possible way," said the undersized center.

"We don’t have a big lineup, but we can play fast. We are going to make the most of our speed."

The tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Uganda is not a title contender, but for veteran Malinga, "Tunisia and Angola can compete for gold."

"If Senegal is well organised, they can make an impact as well.

Honestly speaking, if we are able to advance to the top-8, it will be a very, very good result for Uganda basketball - Malinga

Earlier this year FUBA announced the return of former coach Paul Johnson, who had previous spells with Uganda.

Malinga welcomed the announcement, saying "He did a marvellous job during the AfroBasket 2013 qualifier in Dar es Salaam [Tanzania]. Him coming on board boost our team chances of playing good basketball.”

As for his future international career, Malinga feels 2015 might be his final with the national team.

FIBA