By Daniel Nyeko
Makerere Sparks underlined their promotion pedigree, edging past Victoria She Crocs 49-47 in Game Two of the Women’s Division 1 semi-finals on Sunday, November 2nd, at Nakivubo Stadium Court 1, to tie the series at 1-1. The result keeps the 2003 WNBL champions’ dream of returning to the top tier alive and sets up a tense Game Three showdown against Victoria She Crocs.
MUK Sparks got off to a flying start, edging the first quarter 12-6 with sharp shooting and quick transitions. Victoria She Crocs fought back in the second quarter, scoring 20 points and restricting MUK Sparks to 8 points, to edge ahead 26-20 at halftime.
Both teams grew into the third quarter, but the experienced roster of Victoria She Crocs began to tell, with the team holding a narrow 37-33 lead heading into the final quarter.
The resurgence of Makerere Sparks was led by Mercy Ageno, who scored 13 points, while Afua Nabawanga added 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. Significant contributions from Faridah Nakyanzi (10 points), Mary Deng (7 rebounds), and Patricia Lydia Nakyanzi (5 rebounds) sealed the victory in the final quarter.
For Victoria She Crocs, Thelma Delane Toskin contributed with a game-high 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Faridah Kadondi added 8 points, a game-high 14 rebounds, and 2 assists. Viola Nakazibwe also contributed with 10 rebounds.
