The 2025 Betsure Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) Ball Games 2 were nothing short of spectacular, bringing together Uganda’s finest young athletes to compete across multiple sports disciplines. From breathtaking netball finishes to explosive rugby tries, the tournament was a celebration of talent, determination, and the future of Ugandan sports.
This year’s edition did not disappoint, producing standout athletes who left an indelible mark on their respective games. Here is a detailed look at the top performers per discipline and why they are the names everyone is talking about.
1. Netball – Shooting Stars and Defensive Giants
Netball continues to be one of the most-followed sports in USSSA Ball Betsure Sports Handball Games, and 2025 was a year of high-class performances.
Top Shooter: Sylvia Nakato (St. Mary’s Kitende)
Nakato proved why she is regarded as one of the best young netballers in Uganda. She dominated the shooting circle with unmatched precision, scoring an incredible 132 goals across six games with an 85% shooting accuracy. Her ability to read defenders, find space, and maintain composure under pressure made her a nightmare for opponents. Kitende’s run to the finals was largely powered by Nakato’s consistency, and her name is already being whispered in discussions about future She Cranes call-ups.
Defensive Star: Patricia Atwine (Budo SS)
While Nakato dazzled in attack, Patricia Atwine turned heads with her defensive heroics. Her ability to intercept passes and block crucial shots played a pivotal role in Budo’s semifinal run. Atwine recorded 12 interceptions in one match, the highest in this year’s edition, showing incredible anticipation and physicality.
2. Volleyball – Power Spikes and Smart Playmaking
Volleyball in the 2025 edition was marked by aggressive spiking and tactical brilliance, with schools like Kibuli SS, Ntare School, and Katikamu SDA delivering unforgettable matches.
Best Attacker: Brian Ssemujju (Kibuli SS)
Ssemujju was a force of nature, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with 78 attack points. His thunderous spikes and impressive jump reach left defenders helpless. His standout moment came in the finals, where he racked up 23 points, powering Kibuli to the championship.
Best Setter: Joan Nantongo (Nabisunsa Girls)
Nantongo’s court vision and precision set her apart from the rest. She averaged 24 successful assists per game, consistently creating scoring chances for her attackers. Her calm decision-making under intense pressure was critical in Nabisunsa securing a bronze medal.
3. Basketball – Hoops Stars in the Making
The basketball courts witnessed intense battles, with both 3×3 and 5×5 formats producing individual brilliance.
Boys’ 3×3 MVP: Timothy Okecho (Buddo SS)
Okecho was a scoring sensation, averaging 15 points per game in the shorter format—a rare feat in 3×3 basketball. His buzzer-beating three-pointer against St. Henry’s Kitovu became one of the tournament’s most replayed highlights.
Girls’ 5×5 MVP: Mercy Namutebi (St. Mary’s Kitende)
Namutebi delivered an all-around performance, averaging a triple-double (12 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists) per game. Her leadership and versatility inspired Kitende to a championship win.
Defensive Maestro: Rogers Aine (Ntare School)
Aine’s defensive grit earned him accolades as the best defender. Averaging 4 steals per game, he repeatedly neutralized some of the competition’s most prolific shooters.
4. Handball – Fast and Fierce Performances
Handball in the USSSA Ball Games 2 was as competitive as ever, with high-scoring matches and incredible goalkeeping.
Top Scorer: Emmanuel Kato (Kakungulu Memorial)
Kato’s explosive speed and shooting accuracy earned him the top-scorer title with 41 goals in five games. His ability to break through defensive lines was a major reason Kakungulu reached the semifinals.
Best Goalkeeper: Aisha Kabagambe (Gombe SS)
Kabagambe was a standout performer between the posts, registering 36 crucial saves throughout the tournament. Her agility and sharp reflexes kept Gombe SS in contention for a podium finish.
5. Rugby – Strength Meets Skill
Rugby fans were treated to raw power and tactical brilliance, with thrilling tries and hard-hitting tackles.
Best Forward: Isaac Mugisha (St. Mary’s Kitende)
Mugisha dominated the forward pack, winning crucial scrums and rucks. He also scored five tries, making him one of the highest-scoring forwards of the tournament.
Best Back: Gerald Musasizi (Kings College Budo)
Musasizi’s quick footwork and ability to read the game were unmatched. He scored the fastest try of the tournament, touching down within 1 minute and 42 seconds in the semifinals.
6. Emerging Stars and Fair Play Awards
The tournament also celebrated rising talent and sportsmanship. Hellen Nakayenga (St. Noa Girls Zzana), only 15, impressed in netball with her composure under pressure, while Peter Odong (Kibuli SS), a basketball rookie, earned praise for his energy and fearlessness. Schools like Bishop Cipriano Kihangire SS were commended for their discipline and fair play throughout the games.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 USSSA Ball Games 2 showcased the very best of Uganda’s school-level sports talent. From Nakato’s unstoppable scoring in netball to Ssemujju’s dominant volleyball attacks, and Okecho’s clutch basketball moments, the future of Ugandan sports looks bright. These games continue to be a breeding ground for future national stars, and many of these young athletes are already on the radar of scouts and professional teams.
The performances witnessed this year are more than just school achievements—they are a glimpse into Uganda’s sporting future, where these Betsure Sports athletes could soon represent the country on continental and global stages.
