By Michael Ainomugisha
City Oilers 62-555 UCU Canons
(Oilers Lead Series 2-0)
The UCU Canons are now facing an uphill battle in the 2024 FUBA National Basketball League semi-finals after suffering a 55-62 defeat to the City Oilers in Game Two of the series at Lugogo Indoor Stadium. The loss puts the Canons down 0-2 in the best-of-five series, with their hopes of advancing to the finals hanging by a thread.
City Oilers veteran Komakech Ben led the charge, scoring 16 points to steer his team to victory.
He was ably supported by Lual Titus, who added 15 points, and Muhwezi Ivan, who chipped in with 12 points.
The Oilers’ balanced attack proved too much for the Canons, who struggled to keep pace throughout the highly contested game.
For UCU, Sifuma Peter and Lwabaga Ibanda both scored 14 points, but their efforts fell short against the Oilers.
The Canons trailed from the outset, finishing the first quarter behind 11-15. The gap widened in the second quarter, with the Oilers extending their lead to 24-35 by halftime.
Despite a stronger showing in the third quarter, where the Canons managed to close the gap to 36-45, the Oilers’ composure and execution in the final quarter sealed the game.
The Canons could not mount a comeback, eventually falling 55–62.
With the Oilers now just one win away from advancing to the finals, the Canons face a must-win situation in Game Three to extend the series to the best of five.
Coach Nicholas Natuhereza’s team will need to regroup quickly and bring their best performance to keep their championship dreams alive.
They return to action this Wednesday for Game 3 of the semifinals.
| Michael Ainomugisha Podcaster and Digital Journalist |
