Alexandria, Egypt: Uganda’s national men’s basketball team, the Silverbacks, are stranded in Egypt after losing all three games in the opening window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 African Qualifiers.
The team had been scheduled to depart Alexandria tonight at 10:45 PM via Dubai International Airport. However, with large sections of Middle Eastern airspace declared a no-fly zone and Dubai Airport reportedly closed amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, the delegation is unable to travel as planned.
“Right now, we’re waiting for an answer from our travel agent. Our flight was scheduled for tonight at 10:45 PM through Dubai. We haven’t got a final word yet, so it’s a bit premature for alarm. Check with me in a few hours, and I’ll have an update,” said team manager Albert Ahabwe.
With major airlines suspending operations indefinitely, Uganda may be forced to explore alternative and potentially costlier travel routes to secure the team’s safe return home. Despite the uncertainty, basketball authorities remain in Alexandria with the players as discussions continue.
Tough Opening Window
On the court, the Silverbacks endured a difficult start to their 2027 World Cup qualifying campaign. They concluded the first window with a heavy 91-52 defeat to Egypt at the Borg El Arab Arena, following earlier losses to Algeria and Mali.
Uganda showed early promise against the hosts, briefly leading 2-0 and 4-2 in the opening minutes. However, Egypt responded with a dominant 18-0 run spanning the first and second quarters and controlled the contest for more than 37 minutes. The deficit ballooned to 39 points late in the fourth quarter.
Nike Sibande was Uganda’s standout performer once again, registering 11 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals in 34 minutes of play. Nevertheless, the Silverbacks struggled offensively against Egypt’s disciplined defensive setup.
The focus now shifts from qualification mathematics to logistical arrangements, as officials work urgently to chart a safe passage home for the national team.
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