Namuwongo Blazers edged City Oilers 71–64 in Game Four of the National Basketball League Finals on Friday, October 31, at the Lugogo Indoor Arena to tie the best-of-seven series at 2–2.
The result keeps the Blazers’ hopes of winning a first-ever league title alive, and sets up a tense run-in against the ten-time defending champions.
The comeback was driven by Tonny Drileba, who has transformed Namuwongo’s play since returning in Game Three.
The veteran guard, who missed the first two games through injury, scored 15 points on Friday and dictated the pace as the Blazers outworked the Oilers down the stretch.
His leadership on both ends of the court continues to shape the series.
City Oilers started stronger, taking an 18–14 first-quarter lead through Kurt Wegscheider’s jumper and maintaining a 26–24 advantage at halftime after locking down the Blazers offensively.
But Namuwongo shifted gears after the break, attacking the paint and tightening their defense to lead 47–42 heading into the final quarter.
The Oilers fought back through Chad Bowie’s 21 points and Kurt Curry’s 20, but the Blazers’ composure proved decisive.
Ivan Muhwezi added 11 points while Joel Lukoji chipped in 10 as Namuwongo recorded a second straight win.
Drileba’s impact since his return has been significant. In Game Three on Tuesday, he registered nine assists in an 80–70 victory that revived Namuwongo’s series hopes.
His control of the tempo and ability to find open teammates gave the Blazers balance and the much-needed belief after falling 2–0 behind.
Having won seven of the Oilers’ ten championships before switching sides this season, Drileba’s experience and understanding of his former team’s system have been evident.
His arrival at Namuwongo has changed their mentality, turning them from challengers into credible title contenders.
Game Five will be played tomorrow, Sunday, November 2, followed by Game Six on Tuesday, November 4, and a possible Game Seven on Friday, November 7.
Either team must win two of the remaining three games to be crowned champions.
