UCU Lady Canons finished their season on a high after defeating Magic Stormers 69-55 in the National Basketball League third-place playoff on Sunday at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
The result gave the Mukono-based side third place in the playoffs, a fitting end to a campaign marked by resilience and consistency.
UCU began slowly, struggling to find rhythm against the Stormers’ organised defense. At halftime, Stormers led 30-28, driven by Joy Nekesa Mupalia’s strong inside play.
But after the break, UCU shifted into control, winning the third quarter 28-10 and establishing a double-digit cushion they never surrendered.
Sarah Namale led with 14 points and 14 rebounds, dictating tempo and setting the tone on both ends.
Zoe Atek and Sylvia Nakituuka added 9 and 8 points respectively as UCU’s balance overwhelmed the Stormers. The Lady Canons’ bench produced 45 points, a reflection of their depth and structure.
The Stormers’ offense collapsed under pressure, shooting only 6-of-35 from three-point range.
Mupalia finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds but lacked support. The team’s reliance on perimeter shots proved costly, as UCU dominated the boards 58-51 and scored efficiently in transition.
After falling to JKL Lady Dolphins in the semifinals, UCU’s focus was redemption.
Their defense tightened, their rotations improved, and their communication was sharper. Every possession carried intent.
The bronze medal may not match their championship ambitions, but it reaffirmed their pedigree as one of the league’s elite programs.
The win also marked a fitting end to another competitive season for the Lady Canons, whose development of young players continues to sustain their success.
