Basketball in Africa

Power’s Richard Balemwa (R) defends KIU’s Donald Blick during the league encounter between the two sides in May. KIU take on Falcons today. PHOTO BY I. KEZAALA KAMPALA- On two successive Fridays, KIU beat Tiger Head Power and Warriors to accelerate the power shift from the sides that shared the titles between 2008 and 2012.

Today they play record six time champions Falcons with victory not only leaving them as champions City Oilers biggest challengers but also guarantee top spot as the first round of the Airtel National Basketball League climaxes at YMCA.

The Kansanga-based side go into today’s game with a 9-1 record. Only City Oilers went into their final first round of games at 9-1 before losing that match against Our Saviour to stand at 9-2.

Forward Norman Blick, one of several key off-season recruits beginning to get into their element is averaging 11 points in a 4-0 run for coach Hamza Nyambogo’s side.

With huge pedigree, their opponents Falcons will look to end the round on a high following a three game slump that was stopped with last week’s 80-61 triumph over Charging Rhino.

The other game features another in-form side in UCU Canons, who could also finish at 9-2 with a win over Stanbic Warriors in what is likely to be guard Josh Johnson’s last game for the club.

The Mukono University side, bolstered by the return of Desmond Owili, are in high spirits following last Friday’s 79-68 triumph over Tiger Head Power.

The latter completed their first round games on Wednesday with a straight forward 85-35 win over Bush Court.

Gudi Nasser, benefitting from more playing minutes this season, scored a game high 20 points while Ndejje ensured Diamonds ended the first round winless with a 100-59 blow out victory.

Today at YMCA
KIU Titans vs. Star Times Falcons
UCU Canons vs. Stanbic Warriors
Wednesday results
Ndejje University 100-59 Diamonds
Tiger Head Power 85-35 Bush Court