- JT Jaguars 74-64 City Oilers
Ian Lubwama and Aaron John Eboyu stepped onto the Lugogo Indoor Arena court with one mission: to lead the JT Jaguars past the reigning National Basketball League champions, City Oilers, on Friday night.
By the final whistle, they had done just that, orchestrating a well-drilled Jaguars performance that handed the Oilers a 74-64 defeat, their second consecutive loss in the regular season.
From the very first possession, it was clear the Jaguars were not intimidated by their more decorated opponents. Lubwama, sharp and aggressive, found his rhythm early, sinking crucial baskets that gave the Jaguars an 18-14 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Eboyu, feeding off his teammate’s energy, showcased his versatility, weaving through Oilers’ defense and punishing any lapses with pinpoint shooting.
By halftime, the Jaguars had a narrow but crucial 36-34 advantage, keeping the pressure squarely on the champions.
The third quarter was a battle of wills. The Oilers, desperate to avoid back-to-back defeats, threw everything at the Jaguars, with Rogers Dauna leading the charge.
He put up 16 points, while Joseph Chuma and Edgar Munaaba chipped in with 12 each. But for every Oilers push, the Jaguars had an answer.
Eboyu drained a contested three. Lubwama powered through contact for a tough layup. Fadhili Chuma and Were Mark, each contributing 11 points, played their part in keeping the Oilers at bay.
By the end of the third quarter, the Jaguars had widened the gap to 54-48, leaving the Oilers with one quarter to salvage their night.
But there was no comeback to be had. The Jaguars, determined and disciplined, closed out the game in style. Lubwama led all Jaguars scorers with 15 points, while Eboyu’s 13 kept the scoreboard ticking.
Their composure in the final minutes ensured there would be no late Oilers resurgence, sealing an emphatic victory.
Earlier in the evening, the UCU Lady Canons set the tone for the night with a dominant display against KIU Rangers. Millicent Otieno’s 15-point performance guided the Lady Canons to a well-earned victory in the women’s fixture.
