Basketball fans, mark your calendars! The Jovoc Open Basketball Tournament is back for its 12th edition, and it’s bigger than ever.
Set to take place at St. Joseph’s Vocational School in Mbarara, this grassroots basketball extravaganza has become a cornerstone of the sport in western Uganda.
A Tournament That Keeps Growing
Launched in 2013 with just 11 teams, the Jovoc Open has grown into a national phenomenon, attracting over 30 teams annually.
At its peak in 2020, the tournament featured 50 teams before COVID-19 temporarily slowed its momentum.
Alex Byamukama, the basketball coach at St. Joseph’s Vocational School, credits the tournament with transforming basketball in the region.
“It’s not just a competition; it’s a platform for nurturing young talent and promoting the sport at the grassroots level,” he says.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its success, the Jovoc Open faces some hurdles. A shortage of basketball courts and professional referees in western Uganda remains a pressing issue.
To address this, organizers rely on nearby schools like Mbarara High School and MaryHill High School to host games. Referees are often brought in from Kampala, adding logistical complexity.
However, there’s hope on the horizon. The presence of Nasser Sserunjogi, President of the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA), at this year’s event could pave the way for solutions to these challenges.
The Financial Side of the Game
Organizing a tournament of this scale doesn’t come cheap.
Rev. Fr. Christopher Katono Bafakii, the headteacher of St. Joseph’s Vocational School, estimates that approximately Shs 10 million is needed to cover costs.
These include officiating fees, medical services, awards, and logistical expenses like the public address system and welfare.
Funding primarily comes from team participation fees and sponsorships. Rev. Fr. Katono emphasizes the tournament’s importance, calling it an integral part of the school’s identity.
“It’s not just about basketball; it’s about showcasing excellence and fostering community,” he says.
A Platform for Young Talent
St. Joseph’s Vocational School has earned a reputation as a basketball powerhouse in western Uganda.
The Jovoc Open provides students with a unique opportunity to interact with peers from across the country, helping to nurture the next generation of basketball stars.
This year’s tournament, which tips off on March 8 to coincide with International Women’s Day, has attracted top schools from across Uganda.
Defending champions Elite High School Entebbe will face stiff competition from the likes of MaryHill High School, Namilyango College, Ntare School, and Trinity College Kabale, among others.
Why the Jovoc Open Matters
The Jovoc Open is more than just a basketball tournament—it’s a celebration of talent, teamwork, and community.
With increased participation and growing national recognition, it continues to cement its place as one of Uganda’s premier sporting events.
As the countdown to March 8 begins, one thing is clear: the Jovoc Open is a testament to the power of sports to inspire, unite, and transform.
