JT Jaguars scoop UCU Lady Canons duo

JT Lady Jaguars have confirmed the signing of point guard Shakirah Nanvubya and forward Azidah Nabayunga from UCU Lady Canons.

Sudi Ulanga’s charges, who lost to JKL Lady Dolphins in last season’s semifinals, announced the statement signings Monday morning via the club’s social media handles.

The duo is the latest crop to switch from the Mukono based university to the Lady Jaguars following the likes of Sarah Ageno, Rhoda Nagitta, Maimuna Nabossa and Annet Among.

Nanvubya and Nabayunga completed their studies at UCU and were two of the hottest free agents on the market, with all the top teams in the country expressing interest in luring them to join their ranks.

Nanvubya is one of the talents auditioning for the Uganda Gazelles point guard role and averaged 3.5 assists last season. She shot 66% on the free throw line and 29% from three-point range as the Lady Canons pushed JKL Lady Dolphins in the finals.

“I was looking for a club that has the same arrangement or culture as UCU and Jaguars seems perfect,” Nanvubya said after the unveiling held at the team’s offices in Kira.

“Looking at the other clubs, say JKL, I don’t think they needed me and I was looking for a place where I was needed and comfortable,” she added.

Nanvubya and Nabayunga played a huge part as the Lady Canons defeated JKL in Game Seven of 2023 to lift the championship and will be looking to add that winning mentality to a Lady Jaguars side that already has established winners.

“JKL already have two guards so, to keep the competition going and the fans enjoying the game, I think it was a better option to join Jaguars,” the Gazelles guard, who spent six years at UCU, opined.

Hungry to win

The Lady Jaguars have made it clear since joining the top flight that winning the league is top on their agenda and the two signings will only emphasize the team’s hunger for success.

“I feel like we have to win, we are going to do our best and live the rest to God,” Nabayunga told the press.

“We have the winning mentality so, expect a lot from us. We have to work hard for the championship,” she added.

JKL and the Lady Canons, who played the finals last season will remain as the Lady Jaguars’ biggest rivals for the championship when the new season tips off.

The Jaguars family also unveiled Peter Sifuma as an addition to the men’s side, with the Kenyan centre also crossing from UCU. 

JT Lady Jaguars signings

Shakirah Nanvubya, Azidah Nabayunga

JT Jaguars signing

Peter Sifuma