NBL Playoffs | Women | SF | Game 1 | Wednesday, October 1 – YMCA
- JKL Lady Dolphins Vs UCU Lady Canons – 9 pm
- JT Lady Jaguars Vs Magic Stormers – 7 pm
The Women’s National Basketball League semi-finals tip off this Wednesday with four teams chasing a spot in the finals.
Reigning champions JKL Lady Dolphins return after last year’s dramatic title run, when they overturned a 0-2 deficit against UCU Lady Canons to win 4-2.
That comeback was built on determination despite injuries and long absences for Becky Longom, Ritah Imanishimwe, Brenda Ekon, Evelyne Nakiyingi, and veteran guard Flavia Oketcho.
In their absence, Hope Akello, Zainah Lokwameri, Tamasha Nsubuga, Agatha Kamwada, Shadiah Nassanga, and Shamilah Nakiyaga carried the load.
Now, with Ekon, Imanishimwe, and Oketcho back, the semi-finals pose a question: stick with the group that held the fort, or lean on the veterans?
For UCU Lady Canons, this season has a different look. The exits of Shakirah Nanvubya, Tracy Namugosa, and Aziida Nabayunga forced new leaders to step up.
Martina Anyango and Sylvia Nantongo have shown promise, but much rides on Shillah Lamunu, who has been their anchor all year. UCU will need her leadership if they’re to mount another push.
Their last clash with JKL was a thriller, UCU edged it 71-67 despite a 31-point outburst from Akello. Expect the same fire in the semis.
The other semi-final pits Magic Stormers against JT Lady Jaguars. The Stormers stunned KCCA Leopards in the quarters, bouncing back from a game-one loss to win 2-1.
Coach John Omondi’s defense proved key, holding KCCA to just 49 points in the decider. Joy Nekesa’s rebounding, Angela Auma’s clutch threes, and Daphine Adong’s transition play drove the upset.
The Jaguars, third in the regular season, will rely on star power. New signing Shakirah Nanvubya reminded everyone of her big-game pedigree with 26 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals in their quarter-final win over Miracle Eaglets.
Alongside her, Mercy Batamuliza’s presence on the boards and defense makes them a formidable side.
