Defending champions NIC Netball Club kicked off their 2024 East African Netball Club Championship campaign in emphatic style, dismantling Zimamoto Netball Club of Tanzania 58-22 in a one-sided contest at the New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
From the opening whistle, NIC left no room for doubt about their intentions. A fast-paced and well-organized start saw them race to a 10-4 lead in the first quarter.
By halftime, they had established a commanding 25-8 advantage, with their ball movement, court awareness, and tight defense proving too much for the Tanzanian outfit.
Led by a tactically astute performance from center player Margret Bagala, NIC’s midfield seamlessly connected defense and attack.
Wing defenders Filbas Namulema and Zam Seera provided stability, while the scoring duo of Maureen Nankya and Shakira Nassara made light work of Zimamoto’s backline.
Goalkeeper Racheal Nanyonga and Goal Defense Aya Gloria anchored the defensive third with authority, limiting Zimamoto to just 13 goals by the end of the third quarter.
NIC cruised through the final stretch to cap a dominant 36-point victory.
The squad depth was evident, with head coach relying on strong bench performances from Sandra Nambirige and Victo Nantumbwe among others.
With games against tougher opponents ahead, NIC’s authoritative start sends a strong message to rivals, including fellow Ugandan sides KCCA, Prisons, and WOB.
NIC’s next challenge comes against Uhamiaji, another Tanzanian side, as they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and defend their title.
