Sera Precious Yaweh marked her National Basketball League (NBL) return with a solid debut for KIU Rangers, contributing seven points and two assists in a 48-31 victory over Nkumba Lady Marines on Saturday, May 31, at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
The former A1 Challenge captain, who recently joined the Kansanga-based outfit ahead of the second round, was instrumental in helping KIU secure their fourth win of the season.
The Rangers started strong with a 13-9 lead in the first period, but momentum briefly shifted in the second quarter as Nkumba outscored them 8-6.
However, KIU responded emphatically after halftime, shutting out Nkumba 17-0 in a dominant third-quarter display that ultimately put the game beyond reach.
KIU’s overall team play proved decisive, with the Rangers outmatching the Lady Marines in nearly every statistical category.
They shot 24% from the field compared to Nkumba’s 20%, grabbed 67 rebounds to Nkumba’s 49, and registered 15 assists—more than double their opponents’ total.
Although both teams struggled from beyond the arc, KIU shooting just 8% (3-for-34) and Nkumba 11% (2-for-17)—it was KIU’s interior presence that made the difference.
The Rangers scored 34 of their 48 points in the paint, more than doubling Nkumba’s 16, and used their 17 steals to create multiple fast-break opportunities.
Sera’s return adds depth to a side that’s now showing signs of rhythm. Her ability to stretch the floor and contribute to the offensive flow was a welcome boost for a team that struggled with consistency during the first round.
With the win, KIU Rangers climbed to sixth place in the NBL Women’s standings.