JKL Lady Dolphins moved to within one win of defending their National Basketball League title after a 69–61 victory over JT Lady Jaguars in Game Four of the women’s finals on Friday night at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
The win gave the reigning champions a 3–1 lead in the best-of-seven series, positioning them to seal their fifth league crown tomorrow, Sunday, November 2, when they face the Jaguars in Game Five.
In Game Four, JT, first-time finalists started fast, going 6–0 up before JKL captain Hope Akello responded with a three-pointer to steady her side.
The first quarter ended level at 19–19, but JKL edged ahead 36–32 at halftime after a late basket from Rhoda Nagitta of the Jaguars.
The third quarter swung in JT’s favor as they tightened their defense and limited JKL to just eight points, taking a 46–44 lead into the final period.
But the Lady Dolphins, four-time champions, showed their experience when it mattered most, tightening their defense and executing key plays down the stretch to secure the win.
Akello led the way with 17 points, while Evelyn Nakiyingi and Ritah Imanishimwe added 12 and 11 respectively.
For the Jaguars, Mercy Batamuliza was outstanding with 18 points and 20 rebounds, while Nagitta and Shakirah Nanvubya each scored 11.
Friday’s result reflected the similar pattern seen in the women’s final series so far.
For example, in Games Two and Three, the Jaguars had competed well through three quarters before fading late, with JKL’s defense and composure proving decisive once again.
The Jaguars’ consistency remains the challenge. Their Game One win showed they can compete, but lapses in execution have cost them since.
They now face an uphill task, needing to win all three remaining games to claim their first-ever title.
Game Five on Sunday will be decisive. A JKL win will secure the championship, while a Jaguars victory will extend the series to Game Six on Tuesday, November 4, and a possible Game Seven on Friday, November 7.
