Lugogo Indoor Arena, Kampala—June 18, 2025 — In a pulsating clash filled with grit, strategy, and sheer willpower, the UCU Lady Canons outlasted a determined but short-handed JKL Lady Dolphins side in a 71–67 victory that will be remembered as one of the most competitive games of the National Basketball League (NBL) women’s season.
Despite missing several of their starting stars, the Lady Dolphins showed remarkable resilience and teamwork, pushing the Canons to the edge. However, UCU capitalized on their depth and composure in the final moments to secure a crucial win that strengthens their postseason hopes.
Missing Stars, Not Spirit: JKL’s Brave Stand
The JKL Lady Dolphins came into the game already on the back foot, with key players Flavia Oketcho, Becky Longom, Ritah Imanishimwe, and Evelyn Nakiyingi all unavailable. The absences forced the Dolphins to rely heavily on their bench and core veterans like Hope Akello, who stepped up spectacularly.
Far from backing down, JKL embraced the challenge. They hustled for every loose ball, defended with intensity, and played with the kind of cohesion that only comes from a team with championship DNA.
📊 Game Flow: Neck-and-Neck Battle Across Four Quarters
The encounter was tightly contested from tip-off to the final buzzer.
- 1st Quarter (20–19 UCU): A high-energy start saw UCU’s Hajara Najjuko sink a critical layup to help the Canons edge the first period by a point. Both teams tested each other’s defensive shapes and tempo.
- 2nd Quarter (41–38 UCU): The Dolphins responded strongly, with Zainah Lokwameri nailing a long-range jumper to reduce the deficit. UCU held a slim three-point lead at halftime, but the game remained wide open.
- 3rd Quarter (62–56 UCU): Milicent Otieno gave the Canons breathing room with two clutch three-pointers. Her range shooting added a dynamic layer to UCU’s offense and shifted momentum.
- 4th Quarter: JKL pushed back hard with Hope Akello leading a fourth-quarter charge, but UCU’s experience and composure in pressure situations allowed them to maintain the narrow margin until the end. Stay connected on Betsure Sports Handball.
🌟 Player Highlights: Akello and Nantongo Shine Bright
- Hope Akello (JKL): An undisputed star of the night, Akello exploded for 31 points, carrying the offensive load almost single-handedly. Her rebounding, court vision, and physicality were unmatched, and she gave UCU defenders a tough time.
- Sylvia Nantongo (UCU): The Canons’ MVP of the night, Nantongo posted a commanding double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Her presence in the paint and on the glass gave UCU second-chance opportunities and anchored their interior defense.
- Tamasha Nsubuga (JKL): Added 13 points with clutch baskets that kept the Dolphins within striking distance.
- Milicent Otieno (UCU): Contributed key perimeter shots when her team needed them most, playing a vital role in stretching the defense.
🧠 Coaching and Tactics: UCU’s Depth Makes the Difference
UCU Lady Canons Head Coach Nicholas Natuhereza managed rotations effectively, giving young players meaningful minutes while keeping his veterans fresh for the closing stretch. His squad’s depth and ability to adapt were vital, especially as JKL pushed the tempo late in the game.
JKL, despite their shortened bench, executed their offensive schemes well and defended with intensity. Coach Roger Sseruyange deserves credit for motivating a short-handed unit to nearly snatch an improbable win.
📈 What This Means Going Forward
- For UCU Lady Canons: The victory improves their league standing and serves as a confidence booster heading into the final stretch of the season. Their ability to win close games will be crucial come playoff time.
- For the JKL Lady Dolphins: This game will feel like a moral victory. With their stars sidelined, they fought valiantly and nearly stole the result. When they return to full strength, the Dolphins will be a serious title contender.
🗓️ Next Fixtures to Watch
- UCU Lady Canons face off next against the KCCA Leopards, where they’ll look to build on their momentum.
- JKL Lady Dolphins will hope for a healthier roster as they prepare to take on the KIU Rangers in a must-win clash.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The UCU vs. JKL battle was a showcase of heart, depth, and strategy. In a game where both sides had to dig deep—UCU to protect a lead and JKL to defy the odds—the fans were the real winners, treated to an intense and high-quality Betsure game.
With the playoffs looming, performances like these underline why women’s basketball in Uganda continues to grow in excitement, talent, and competitiveness.
