Basketball in Africa

Oilers’ Kabenge managed a paltry four points in the third semi finals playoff at the MTN Arena, Lugogo on Friday. Oilers and Canons faceoff in Game Four today. Photo by I Kezaala. 

As Niccola Machiavelli once stated, “Men should be either treated generously or destroyed, because they take revenge for slight injuries - for heavy ones they cannot”.

Leading 2-0 going into game three of the best of five series on Friday, UCU Canons had the chance to destroy the champions City Oilers.

Instead they played with constraint, losing 70-58 and must now live with the fear of Oilers vengeance ahead of game four of the best of five semifinal series at Lugogo today.

Having struggled with knee trouble, Ben Komakech looked like he benefited most from two days of rest brought about after the rain washed out game on Wednesday.

The first two games had brought 10 points, on Friday he doubled that, scoring a game high 20 points including a three pointer that gave the Oilers a 24-13 lead as the champions made a fast start.

“We just cannot afford to give our opponents another fast start,” explained Nick Natuhereza after the game.

Shooting guard Jimmy Enabu added 16 points and dished out seven assists as the Oilers overcame a rare off day for centre Kami Kabange who managed a paltry four points.

They still trail the semifinal series 2-1 with UCU holding yet another opportunity to close out the series and make the finals for the first time in their history.

In the ladies, KCCA Leopards set up yet another final with nemesis UCU after sweeping A1 Challenge 3-0 following a 52-34 win.