UCU 61 – 67 Kampala Rockets.
By Michael Ainomugisha.
The UCU Canons suffered a disappointing 61-67 loss to Kampala Rockets in their 2025 National Basketball League (NBL) season opener on 26th March at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
Despite a strong effort from captain Ibanda Lwabanga, UCU failed to hold off a late surge from the Rockets, marking a frustrating start to the new campaign.
Both teams started cautiously, with UCU edging the first quarter 9-8. The Mukono-based side maintained a slight lead at halftime, 25-23, after a closely contested second quarter.
However, the game took a dramatic turn in the third quarter as both teams scored 23 points each, keeping the game wide open heading into the final period. It was in the fourth quarter that Kampala Rockets dominated, outscoring UCU 21-13 to seal the six-point victory.
UCU captain Ibanda Lwabanga put on a standout performance, leading all scorers with 23 points and six rebounds. Jimmy Otim also made a solid contribution, registering 11 points and three rebounds.
For Kampala Rockets, former UCU player Kevin Kasobya made an impact against his former team, scoring 11 points and three rebounds.
The biggest difference, however, came from Christian Ndibu, who dominated the boards with 22 rebounds and 12 points, proving to be the decisive factor in the Rockets’ win.
The loss marks a tough start for the UCU Canons, who will need to regroup quickly as they look ahead to their first home game of the season against Rezlife Saints on April 5 at UCU-Mukono.
