National Basketball League Playoffs | Men | Finals | Game One
- City Oilers 76-70 Namuwongo Blazers
Chad Bowie delivered a masterclass performance, scoring a game-high 29 points to power City Oilers past Namuwongo Blazers 76-70 in Game One of the National Basketball League Finals at the Lugogo Indoor Arena on Friday night.
The Blazers started fast, storming to a 7-0 lead before Oilers coach Andrew Tendo called a timeout that changed the game’s rhythm.
Joel Lukoji dazzled with his quick moves, while Kurt Wegscheider and Bowie combined to trim the deficit to 13-11.
Bowie then caught fire, sinking a late three-pointer to give the Oilers an 18-13 lead after the first quarter.
By halftime, the defending champions had stretched their advantage to 37-31, capitalizing on the Blazers’ turnovers.
After the break, Anthony Chukwubuka Chukwurah led a defensive resurgence for the Blazers, but the Oilers held on to a 53-50 edge heading into the final quarter.
Arthur Wanyoto tied the game at 56 midway through the fourth, but Bowie and Mer Maker responded swiftly to restore control.
Even after Maker fouled out with four minutes left, the Oilers stayed composed to secure the win before a roaring Lugogo crowd.
Wegscheider added 16 points and Joseph Chuma 12 to back Bowie’s offensive show. For the Blazers, Lukoji’s 22 points stood out in an otherwise error-filled night.
City Oilers now lead the best of seven series 1-0, with Game Two set for Sunday October 26.
