Friday, November 27
*Egypt 96-77 Uganda
*Morocco 73-80 Cape Verde
Saturday, November 28
*Uganda 94-90 Morocco
*Cape Verde 82-91 Egypt
Sunday, November 29
*Uganda Vs Cape Verde – 6:30pm
*Morocco Vs Egypt – 8:30pm
Silverbacks coach George Galanopoulos has commended his team after a stunning 94-90 against Morocco on Saturday.
Robinson Opong scored 29 points, Jimmy Enabu had 16 while Deng Geu and Ishmail Wainwright contributed 14 points each to the win.
“The key was staying together throughout the game, we managed to move the ball well and we didn’t turn the ball over many times as it was against Egypt,” Galanopoulos said.
“We were out rebounded, we needed to box out but we did shoot the ball well.”
The Silverbacks coach took time to hail the FUBA management for putting all pieces together to see that the team plays including a ten-day training in Alexandria amidst all the financial struggles back at home.
“The key to all this is the management right from Nasser (Sserunjogi) down to Haji Mohammad Santur, Grace Kwizera and Albert Ahabwe. They are the core of our management. They are the reason we are here, they worked tirelessly to reach this place through getting funds for everything. They have made sure that this team runs basically.
“I have so much respect for what they do and their commitment to their country. I am just happy that they are part of this, and this is what happens (the win) when you get good people and surround them with talented players, something like this happens.”
Next for the Silverbacks is a tricky tie against group E’s dark horses Cape Verde on Sunday. Cape Verde beat Morocco before losing it late against Egypt.
“They are a very talented side, energetic and very spirited team. This third game in three days is always the toughest no matter what. Its going to be a dog fight, but we do respect every one of our opponents. We are looking forward for the challenge.”
Cape Verde will rely on Ivan Almeida who has averaged 23.5 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists. Jeffrey Nunes Xavier and Anderson Correira are the other members of the team to watch out.
Enabu Proud:
Jimmy Enabu is leading the boys in a high profile qualification tourney after veteran Stephen Omony’s injury.
“It’s amazing every time I step on court to represent Uganda. It comes with a sense of pride and being here is a big deal for us, beating Morocco means a lot.
“I am really proud to be part of this team, especially at such a moment in time.
“Cape Verde is a good team, aggressive, very ambitious like us but we are ready to face them.”