UCU 58-73 Namuwongo
By Michael Ainomugisha.
UCU Canons are on the brink of playoff elimination after falling 73–58 to Namuwongo Blazers in game two of the National Basketball League semifinals on Friday at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
The defeat leaves the Canons trailing 2–0 in the best-of-five series. They must now win game three on Sunday to keep their season alive and force a fourth matchup.
Without head coach Nicholas Natuhereza on the sidelines, UCU endured a difficult start, conceding the opening quarter 28–13. The Canons fought back in the third quarter, trimming the deficit to just two points and momentarily threatening a comeback.
However, the Blazers seized control in the final period, launching an 18–0 run as UCU went scoreless for the first seven minutes. That decisive stretch put the game beyond reach.
For the Canons, Jimmy Otim scored 12 points, Zacharia Ekirapa added 11, while Joel Kayiira posted 8 points and 15 rebounds. Missing their injured captain Ibanda Lwabaga, the team struggled with efficiency, shooting 7-of-26 from deep, committing 24 turnovers, and losing the rebounding contest 45–40.
On the opposite end, Joel Lukoji inspired the Blazers with a game-high 24 points. Arthur Wanyoto delivered a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while veteran James Okello contributed 17 points.
With their season hanging in the balance, UCU will need a strong response in game three on Sunday. Victory would extend the series, while another loss would confirm Namuwongo Blazers’ place in the playoff finals.
