By Michael Ainomugisha
UCU Canons defeated fellow university side UMU Flames 79-64 in a University Derby clash of the National Basketball League on 8 February 2026 at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
UCU started strong with a 16-9 first quarter, led by guard Jimmy Otim, who scored 5 early points. By halftime, the Canons had stretched their lead to 44-26, with captain Zachariah Ekirapa on 10 points and Otim adding 15 for a commanding 18-point advantage.
In the third quarter, guard Daniel Muganzi hit double figures with 13 points as UCU extended the gap to 66-42. The Canons lost some control in the final quarter, conceding 22 points while scoring only 13, but held on to secure the win.
Otim finished with a game-high 23 points, followed by Muganzi with 13 and Ekirapa with 12.
For UMU Flames, Agot Agot scored 16 points, Joshua Duallo 11, and Michael Opwonyo 10.
“We had a good run from the start, but I felt we lost a bit of control towards the end. Being the first game of the season, these are experiences to learn from,” head coach Nicholas Natuhereza said. He added that the result was encouraging, especially after failing to win an opening fixture for the past two seasons.
UCU Canons return to action on Friday, 13 February, against defending champions Namuwongo Blazers.
