Friday, April 12
*JT Lady Jaguars Vs JKL Lady Dolphins – 7pm
*Dmark Power Vs KIU Titans – 9pm
KIU Titans will be seeking to benefit from Dmark Power’s numerical disadvantage as the two sides face off this Friday at the Lugogo Indoor Arena in the National Basketball League.
Power has registered just four victories in 10 games, a poor report card for a five-time league champion. But not much should be expected for a sleeping giant who is navigating the league with a short-handed squad.
Their recent loss, a 58-65 defeat against Livingstone, highlighted their struggles, watering down their season highlight when they upset Nam Blazers with a 63-57 victory.
Under the leadership of coach Timothy Odeke and assistant Brian Namake, Power’s limited roster of eight players, sometimes seven, has posed significant challenges.
Players like Philip Ameny have been pushed to their limits, facing minimal rest due to the lack of bench options, leading to fatigue and tiredness in crucial moments.
This fatigue often results in players fouling out, leaving the team grappling to stay competitive.
As Power braces for their final first-round game, they carry slim hopes of upsetting another formidable opponent, banking on their resilience to defy the odds.
However, facing a numerical disadvantage against KIU Titans, a team they should be expected to contend with comfortably, raises uncertainties about their prospects.
Meanwhile, the Titans, led by coach Julius Lutwama, have six wins and three losses.
Following their clash with Power, they are scheduled to wrap up their first-round campaign against Ndejje University Angels on Sunday.
Buoyed by their recent 78-51 victory over JT Jaguars, the Titans came into that Wednesday defeat seeking redemption after a surprising defeat to KCCA Panthers on Sunday.
Having secured victories over Power in both meetings last year, with scores of 68-53 and 79-61, the Titans are confident in their ability to replicate that success.
Despite facing challenges such as guard Kasereka Tembo’s limited minutes due to a shoulder injury, the Titans remain optimistic about their chances.
Players like Edgar Munaaba and Joel Lukoji, averaging double figures in scoring, should provide the necessary firepower to secure victory for the Titans.
