NBL Finals: JKL, UCU Lady Canons Set for Epic Showdown

Wednesday, August 28
*JKL Lady Dolphins Vs UCU Lady Canons – 7pm
*City Oilers Vs KIU Titans – 9pm

The National Basketball League (NBL) finals tips off with a thrilling clash between the defending champions, JKL Lady Dolphins, and the record-holders UCU Lady Canons on Wednesday at Lugogo.

The two powerhouses will battle it out in game one of a best-of-seven series, with JKL looking to defend their title and UCU aiming to secure a record-extending ninth championship.

JKL Lady Dolphins, who claimed the NBL crown last year after defeating KIU Rangers, come into the finals with a strong track record.

They have faced UCU in the NBL finals three times before, winning twice in 2018 and 2019.

However, UCU managed to edge them out in a dramatic game seven in 2022 to claim their eighth title.

This season, JKL has been dominant, finishing at the top of the regular-season standings and securing crucial wins against UCU in both of their regular-season encounters, 75-68 in March and 79-50 in April.

Their path to the finals saw them convincingly eliminate UPDF Lady Tomahawks and JT Lady Jaguars in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively.

JKL’s strength lies in their quality roster, boasting a star-studded lineup that includes the recently returned Jane Asinde, along with seasoned players like Flavia ‘Flirsh’ Oketcho, Hope Akello, Rita Imanishimwe, Brenda Ekone, Becky Longom, and Evelyn Nakiyinji. With such a formidable roster, JKL will be eager to capitalize on their talent and experience to retain their title.

On the other hand, UCU Lady Canons are no strangers to the big stage, having won their first championship in 2008 and steadily building their legacy with eight titles to date.

The now-defunct Lady Bucks hold the second-most championships with seven, including an impressive streak of five consecutive titles in the league’s early years.

KCCA Leopards and JKL have four and three titles respectively.

UCU’s journey to the finals saw them overcome the Magic Stormers in the quarterfinals and KIU Rangers in the semifinals.

Led by their coach Nicholas Natuhereza, UCU is known for their strong defense and deadly perimeter shooting, attributes that will be crucial in their quest for another title.

They have some experienced players including captain Shakirah Nanvubya who was part of the title-winning team in 2022.