KAMPALA — Uganda's basketball community is in mourning following the death of JKL Dolphins player Jonathan Oketch, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a serious road accident earlier this month.
Oketch passed away on Monday evening after spending several days receiving treatment, ending a battle that had drawn support and prayers from teammates, fans and the wider sporting fraternity.
The National Basketball League (NBL) confirmed the player's death on Tuesday, paying tribute to a young talent whose career had shown immense promise.
"We have lost a gem. Rest in peace Jonathan, till we meet again," the league said in a statement.
The talented guard was involved in a serious road accident on June 6 and was rushed for treatment before undergoing surgery at C-Care Hospital in Mukono.
Despite efforts by medical personnel and the support of family, friends and teammates, Oketch was pronounced dead on Monday night.
Confirming the tragic development, JKL Dolphins expressed grief at the loss of one of their own.
"On a very sad note, our brother Jonathan Oketch lost the fight. Rest peacefully brother, you fought the good fight," the club said.
His death comes only days after the club had dismissed widespread reports circulating on social media claiming he had died, clarifying at the time that he was still alive and receiving treatment.
On Sunday, the club had offered hope to supporters, saying: "Great news coming in is that our brother Jonathan who was earlier on declared deceased by the doctors is still alive and fighting for his life. Let's all pray for Jonathan to make it out and be with us again."
In recent days, members of the basketball fraternity had rallied behind fundraising efforts aimed at supporting his treatment and recovery. The campaign sought to raise Shs12 million to assist with medical expenses and support his family during the difficult period.
The news of Oketch's passing has since sent shockwaves through Uganda's basketball circles, with players, coaches and fans remembering him as a gifted athlete, dedicated teammate and positive influence both on and off the court.
His death is the latest in a series of tragedies that have struck Uganda's sporting community in recent weeks.
Last week, former Rugby Cranes player Sydney Gongodyo was killed in a mob attack in Kampala and was laid to rest on June 9.
The country also recently lost former national rugby player Adnan Kawuma, a respected member of Walukuba Barbarians Rugby Club.
Earlier this month, Uganda mourned 17-year-old Maxine Modesta Anyango, a rising basketball talent and former netball player who represented the Junior Gazelles and studied at St Noa Girls School.
The successive losses have left athletes, sports administrators and supporters reflecting on a difficult period for Ugandan sport, with many calling for unity and support for grieving families and teammates.
As tributes continue to pour in, Jonathan Oketch will be remembered for his passion for basketball, commitment to his team and the potential many believed would see him become one of the country's standout players.