Basketball in Africa

“We have grown as a team. We have been coming close but losing by a few points at the end and all we needed was a little composure and we are there” Ndejje University Angels’ coach, Walker Obedi said after Ndejje’s demolition of Warriors back in August.
Probably the team had not grown old enough like he claimed and it was a one off or may be they still lack composure in the clutch like game veteran Steven Okias told Kawowo Sports at the climax of the first round. “We know we can take on those big guys but still don’t know how to go about those final minutes when the pressure is on and you need some bit of composure” he said.
Okias’ argument still holds water (and a lot if you like) as Ndejje squandered a seven point lead with two minutes to play to lose to City Oilers 69-67 on Sunday night at YMCA missing four important free throws in the process.
Arou Ramadhan did most of the damage in the absence of Kami Kabange who is Qatar for trials. The power forward scored game high 20 points (six coming in those final two minutes) and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead the way for Oilers (14-6). James Okello added 17 points.
Jonah Otim scored 17 points to lead Angels (14-6). Brian Odur added 11 points and Francis Tumusiime had 10 points.
Meanwhile Dmark Power survived determined Charging Rhinos as Fahmy Ssebatindira’s score-tying 3-pointer at the buzzer drew steel and Paul Odong’s and1 off Rogers Serunyigo’s turnover and foul prior to that turned out the game winner.
Odongo scored game high 12 points to lead Power (17-2). Ben Komakech added 11points and Joseph Ikong had 10 and Isaac Afidra picked 12 rebounds. Rhinos (7-13) were led by center and former Power, Derrick Katumba with 11 points and 15 boards. Isaac Kamya contributed 11 points and Serunyigo picked 10 rebounds.
In the other men’s game, Nkumba Marines beat Miracle Eagle 68-43 behind Emmanuel Nyabuto’s 20 points and 9 boards. Wilson Otweyo put in a 13 and 15 effort and Brian Sivachi had 13 points and 8 rebounds. Raymond Bukenya scored 13 points to pace Eagle sand Frank Karoro had 10.
In the women’s division, A1 Challenge played their best game of the season in a losing effort. After overcoming a double digit deficit and keeping within 2 points of UCU Lady Canons for most of the fourth quarter, UCU’s guard Brenda Mbone banked a 3-pointer in front of her bench to put the game out of A1’s reach.
Peace Proscovia scored 14 point and picked 13 rebounds to lead unbeaten Lady Canons. Moreen Amoding and Angela Namirimu contributed 12 points apiece. Agnes Nantongo led a combined A1 team effort with an 11 and 12 performance.
In the other games, KCCA Leopards beat Nabisunsa 83-46 and Magic Stormers beat MUK Sparks 63-40.