City Oilers moved 2-0 ahead in the Men’s National Basketball League Finals after overcoming Namuwongo Blazers 90-83 on Sunday night at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.
It was another composed display from the ten-time defending champions, led by a 37-point performance from new signing Kurt Curry Wegscheider.
Game Two, aired live on NBS Sport, saw the Blazers start strong, but Oilers’ experience and offensive precision prevailed in the closing stages.
Wegscheider was unplayable in the opening quarter, scoring 18 of Oilers’ 24 points and punishing every defensive mismatch.
By halftime, Oilers led 43-39, though the Blazers stayed within reach through better ball movement and improved shot selection.
The third quarter saw Nam Blazers’ best spell of the series. Innocent Ochera and Anthony Chukwubuka Chukwurah combined for 24 points as the team outscored Oilers 30-21 to lead 69-64 heading into the final period.
Their aggression on both ends forced Oilers into turnovers, and their tempo unsettled the champions.
But as often happens in the playoffs, composure told. Veteran guard Ben Komakech hit two timely three-pointers late in the third to cut the deficit.
That momentum carried into the fourth. When a questionable foul call on Arthur Wanyoto gave Oilers free throws, Bowie Chad, who finished with 16 points, converted all four to tie the game.
Oilers then executed with precision. Wegscheider continued to attack the basket, Baale added key threes, and Oilers’ defense forced Blazers into rushed possessions.
The Blazers’ frustration grew after Chukwurah fouled out following an illegal screen, and Oilers capitalised to seal the win.
For the Blazers, Ochera posted 23 points, Chukwurah added 17 points and 14 rebounds, and Jimmy Enabu chipped in with 11 points and 8 boards. But their inability to control the final quarter cost them a chance to level the series.
Game One had ended 76-70 in favour of Oilers, with Chad Bowie scoring a game-high 27 points.
Game Three will be played tomorrow, Tuesday , October 28, at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, live on NBS Sport.
The Blazers, who earlier threatened to boycott Game One over a fixture dispute, now face a must-win scenario. Oilers, experienced in closing series, will look to edge closer to an eleventh straight title.
