By Michael Ainomugisha
UCU Lady Canons opened their title defense at the Association of Ugandan University Sports basketball championship with a dominant win over Kyambogo University at the UCU court.
Coach Emmanuel Kiguyi’s side set the tone early, racing to a 21–3 lead by halftime. Forward Sarah Namale led the offense as UCU controlled the tempo on both ends of the floor.
The Lady Canons tightened their grip in the second quarter, stretching the gap to a 33-point margin with the score at 42–9. Kyambogo struggled to break through UCU’s defense, while the hosts punished every mistake.
UCU added 20 more points in the third quarter, conceding only six. By the end of the period, the scoreboard read 62–15, leaving the outcome beyond doubt.
The final quarter followed the same script. UCU closed the game with an emphatic 82–20 scoreline, underlining their intent to retain the title.
Notably, UCU achieved the result without several key players. Sylvia Nantongo, Martina Anyango, and captain Shillah Aber, who featured at the 3×3 World Cup in Brasilia, did not play. Guard Sylvia Nakituuka and Priscilla Kirabo also sat out, while forward Zoe Atek logged only four minutes.
The Lady Canons relied on Celine Igereneza, Bridget Kavuma, Sarah Namale, Awidi Maria, Saima Christine, and Sharifah Nalwadda for most of the game, with each making solid contributions.
UCU return to action on December 20, 2025, as they continue their title defense.
