Namuwongo Blazers return to the Kasarani Indoor Arena tonight, Wednesday 19, at 6 PM for a decisive clash against South Africa’s Johannesburg Giants in the Road to BAL Elite 16.
The result will decide their semifinal fate and their pursuit of a 2026 BAL slot.
They step into the game after an 89 to 62 loss to Nairobi City Thunder on Tuesday, where, despite putting up a fight in the first half, the Blazers were out muscled in the second.
New recruit Jovan Mooring had put them ahead early and Tonny Drileba tied the game at 40 before Thunder edged ahead at halftime.
But the second half exposed gaps, with Thunder controlling rebounds, forced turnovers and scored freely in transition.
After the game, Drileba said the team expected a tough contest and lost grip in the third quarter when they drifted from what worked in the first half.
He said poor offensive choices handed Thunder fast break chances, but the group still has one more chance to respond and adjust, and that’s tonight.
Giants arrive with a 5 to 0 record from their group phase run. They push the pace and score in bunches. They are among the strongest teams in the East Division and aim to open their campaign with impact.
In tonight’s game, Blazers need tight defense. They allowed space on the perimeter and struggled in transition against Thunder. Giants thrive in those areas.
Blazers also need accurate three point shooting, and collective team effort. Their NBL title run showed this strength and they need it again.
A win keeps their Road to BAL hopes alive. Defeat ends the journey. Kasarani hosts a high stakes night for the Ugandan champions.
