The YMCA Court in Wandegeya was the epicenter of high-octane basketball on Wednesday night as the National Basketball League (NBL) served up a thrilling double-header that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Kampala Rockets pulled off a stunning late rally to edge KCCA Panthers 65-63 in the men’s game, while KCCA Leopards fended off a spirited Magic Stormers fightback to win 83-79 in the women’s clash.
In a game broadcast live on NBS Sport, the Rockets staged a memorable second-half comeback to secure their fifth win of the season.
Trailing by ten points with just three minutes remaining, Daniel Najja Juuko’s side unleashed a ferocious 12-0 run to flip the script.
The turnaround was initiated by a crucial lay-up from Pauti Ozias Kikomba, with the Panthers unable to respond in the closing moments.
Edward Mugabo was the standout performer for the Rockets, registering 18 points. He received strong support from Juf Mpiya and Brian Opio, who contributed 16 and 15 points respectively.
The win keeps Kampala Rockets firmly in the playoff race and showcases their growing resilience this season.
The loss marked KCCA Panthers’ third defeat in 10 games, though they still remain second on the standings, narrowly ahead of JT Jaguars, who have a game in hand.
Earlier in the evening, the women’s fixture delivered an equally pulsating contest, streamed live on AfroMobile.
KCCA Leopards emerged victorious against Magic Stormers in a high-scoring 83-79 affair that showcased elite-level women’s basketball.
Perus Nyamwenge led the Leopards with a 27-point performance, ably backed by Margaret Bagaala and Asinah Kabendela, who added 15 and 10 points respectively.
The Leopards held a commanding 44-33 halftime lead, but the Stormers clawed back with a strong third quarter, outscoring their opponents 24-20.
Despite a valiant push in the final period, the Stormers fell just short. Auma Angela delivered a standout performance with a game-high 32 points, including key three-pointers to close both the first and second quarters.
Daphine Adong added a notable double-double of 14 points and 17 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a narrow defeat.
The Leopards’ win consolidates their position among the top contenders in the women’s division and demonstrates their ability to hold off late surges in tight games.
