In a decisive victory, the Junior Silverbacks triumphed over Kenya with a final score of 86-58 in the FIBA U18 AfroBasket Qualifiers at MTN Arena Lugogo on June 11, 2024. The game, which tipped off at 7:00 pm, saw Uganda leading consistently throughout all four periods.
Uganda established an early lead, finishing the first period at 26-16. They maintained their dominance with a consistent performance in the second period, mirroring their first-period score and leading 52-32 at halftime. The third period saw Uganda extend their lead further to 73-49, concluding the game with a solid 28-point advantage.
Key performers for Uganda included Edrine Ekau, who led all scorers with 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Brighton Galiwango and Mukisa Mubiru-Nkugwa also made significant contributions, scoring 16 and 15 points respectively. Mubiru-Nkugwa also led in assists with 7.
Kenya’s effort was spearheaded by Powell Owino and Ryan Kelly Otieno, scoring 18 and 15 points respectively. Patrick Githura Ndung’u was a standout on the boards, securing 13 rebounds.
Uganda’s defensive prowess was evident with 21 steals and 3 blocks, compared to Kenya’s 10 steals and 1 block. The Ugandan team also outperformed Kenya in field goals, shooting 38% compared to Kenya’s 27%, and demonstrated superior ball movement with 23 assists to Kenya’s 8.
Uganda will meet Tanzania in the semi-finals on Thursday evening.
