NBL Finals: UCU Lady Canons Draw First Blood

UCU Lady Canons took a 1-0 lead in the best of seven NBL finals after defeating defending champions JKL Lady Dolphins 71-66 in a thrilling encounter at Lugogo.

The Lady Canons had a blazing start, establishing an early lead of 15-07 by the end of the first quarter. Their momentum carried into halftime, where they were up 40-23, leaving the Lady Dolphins struggling to keep pace.

However, JKL fought back in the third quarter, reducing the deficit to just eight points. With under three minutes left in the final quarter, Rita Imanishimwe hit a crucial three-pointer to tie the game at 60-60, setting up a tense finish.

Despite the pressure and the loss of Bridget Aber to fouls, UCU managed to hold their ground.

Captain Shakirah Nanvubya was instrumental in securing the victory, leading all scorers with 21 points. Tracy Namugosa and Shilla Lamunu also made significant contributions with 17 and 11 points, respectively.

For the Lady Dolphins, Jane Asinde led with 17 points, followed by Ekone Brenda with 12, while Hope Akello and Imanishimwe both added 11 points.

However, JKL’s bench struggled, contributing just 10 points compared to UCU’s 21.

UCU’s dominance on the boards, out-rebounding JKL 56-49, was pivotal, especially as the Lady Dolphins surged late in the game.

The victory gives UCU a crucial 1-0 lead in these best of seven finals series.

JKL will be looking to bounce back in Game 2, set for this Friday, as they aim to level the series and keep their hopes of retaining the championship alive.