National Basketball League | Wednesday – MD4
- Men: Victoria Crocs 64-57 JT Jaguars
- Women: UPDF Lady Tomahawks 52-69 JT Lady Jaguars
In a game that defied expectations and shook up the National Basketball League (NBL) Men’s 2025 season, the Victoria Crocs delivered a stunning 64-57 upset over the JT Jaguars at Lugogo Indoor Arena on Wednesday evening.
Though only a few fans dotted the stands, the atmosphere crackled with tension as the Crocs pulled off one of the season’s most dramatic victories.
Right from the opening tip-off, it was clear this wouldn’t be a walk in the park for the heavily favored Jaguars. Both teams exchanged baskets in a scrappy first quarter, but it was Victoria who edged ahead, leading 11-10 after the opening period.
The second quarter saw both teams trade blow for blow, each putting up 20 points to keep the game locked at 31-30 at halftime. The Crocs, despite being underdogs, refused to back down. They played with grit, energy, and discipline, setting the stage for a second-half standoff.
The third quarter proved pivotal. With Ronald Ayume knocking down crucial shots and Wilberforce Pirwoth contributing timely buckets, Victoria nudged ahead again with a slim 13-12 edge in the quarter. But it was the fourth quarter that truly defined the Crocs’ resilience.
Digging deep defensively, the Crocs controlled the boards, swarmed passing lanes and forced the Jaguars into rushed attempts. They capitalized on second-chance opportunities and outscored the Jaguars 20-15 in the final frame to seal the win.
What made Victoria’s victory so striking wasn’t flashy scoring or dominant star power it was their balance and unity.
Cedric Alema led the way with 9 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, embodying the team’s all-around effort. Ronald Ayume added 10 points, including two clutch three-pointers while Bienfait Lola Minani sparked the bench with 6 energetic points.
For JT Jaguars, considered one of the stronger squads this season, struggled to find consistency on either end.
Their lone beacon was forward Peter Sifuma who dominated with 18 points and 16 rebounds in a commanding double-double performance.
Before the men took the court, the JT Lady Jaguars set the tone with a convincing 69-52 win over the UPDF Lady Tomahawks, showcasing their championship credentials.
Elsewhere across the NBL…
Abja Park
- Namuwongo Blazers lit up Abja Park, steamrolling the KIU Titans 126-70 for their fifth win of the season in a scoring masterclass.
- Nabisunsa Girls made headlines of their own, clinching their first regular-season win with a 65-56 triumph over the Angels.
YMCA – Wandegeya
- Rezlife held off Livingstone 58-48 in a tightly contested affair.
- Miracle Ravens overwhelmed Nkumba Lady Marines 101-54 in a statement performance.
