NBL Semis: JKL, UCU Brace for Blockbuster Clash

Wednesday, October 1
*Magic Stormers Vs JT Lady Jaguars – 7pm
*JKL Lady Dolphins Vs UCU Lady Canons – 9pm

JKL Lady Dolphins and UCU Lady Canons will renew their rivalry tonight as they clash in Game One of the National Basketball League women’s semifinals at YMCA Court in Wandegeya.

The tie promises fireworks, bringing together two of the most decorated sides in the league — defending champions JKL and record winners UCU.

With both sides hungry for an early advantage in the best-of-five series, this one is expected to go down to the wire.

The regular season offered a glimpse of how evenly matched the two sides are. JKL dominated the first-round encounter 82-64, but UCU bounced back in the return leg to snatch a 71-67 victory.

JKL, who topped the regular season standings, made light work of UPDF Lady Tomahawks in the quarterfinals and will once again rely on their depth and experience.

Coach Henry Malinga’s roster boasts proven winners in Brenda Ekone, who returned in time for the playoffs, as well as seasoned stars Hope Akello, Flavia Oketcho, Evelyn Nakiyingi, Zainah Lokwameri and Ritah Imanishimwe.

But UCU, under coach Nicholas Natuhereza, have shown they cannot be underestimated despite an inconsistent regular season.

They swept aside a strong KIU Rangers team in the quarterfinals and head into the semis with momentum.

Natuhereza’s youthful side will look to Matrina Anyango, Hajjara Najjuko, Sylvia Nantongo, Shila Lamunu and Bridget Aber to unsettle the champions.