The Kampala International University (KIU) Titans fought their way back from a slow start to defeat the Namuwongo Blazers 76-74 in a thrilling game three of the 2024 National Basketball League (NBL) Semifinal series on Tuesday night at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
This hard-fought victory puts the Titans in a strong position, leading the best-of-five series 2-1. They now need just one more win to secure a coveted spot in the finals.
The Blazers got off to a hot start, leading 11-21 by the end of the first quarter. However, the Titans refused to give up and mounted an impressive comeback in the second quarter.
Led by key contributions from Peter Obleng, who returned from an injury scare to sink crucial three-pointers, they closed the gap to a narrow two points (34-36) at halftime.
The turning point came in the third quarter. The Titans dominated on both ends of the court, outscoring the Blazers 28-19. Guard Joel Lukoji Banza was instrumental in this surge, pouring in a game-high 21 points while also dishing out nine assists and grabbing four rebounds.
Pierre Kasereka Tembo (15 points) and Edgar Munaba (14 points) also chipped in with valuable scoring in double figures.
Juf Mpiya anchored the Titans’ defence with a team-high 13 rebounds. Their defensive focus was crucial as they managed to limit the Blazers’ potent trio of Innocent Ochera (13 points), Jimmy Williams (17 points), and Joseph Chuma (2 points) from exploding offensively.
The drama continued in the fourth quarter. The Blazers threatened a comeback, capitalizing on missed opportunities by the Titans. However, Coach Julius Lutwama’s men held their nerve and secured the victory.
Despite the win, the Titans acknowledge the Blazers’ offensive threat. Their next challenge will be to prevent Ochera, Williams, and Chuma from reaching double figures again when the two teams meet in game four on Thursday.
