The Victoria Crocs secured their National Basketball League status with a hard-fought 67-62 victory over the UPDF Tomahawks, condemning the army side to relegation from Uganda’s top-flight basketball division.
Heading into the final game of the regular season, UPDF knew a win would guarantee survival and secure a playoff spot. Back-to-back victories over the UCU Canons and JT Jaguars had revived their campaign, leaving their fate firmly in their own hands.
The Crocs, however, showed greater urgency from the opening tip. Mark Ngobi scored nine points in the first quarter as Victoria raced to a 22-15 lead, setting the tone early. UPDF responded through Bolton Rujumba in the second period, his nine points cutting the deficit to three midway through.
But the Tomahawks faltered late in the half, managing only two points in the closing minutes while Victoria surged to a 37-26 halftime lead. Missed free throws proved costly, with UPDF leaving six points at the line in that quarter alone.
Victoria maintained control in the third quarter, stretching their advantage to 51-40. UPDF fought back with a 10-0 run in the final period to reduce the gap to three, sparking hopes of a comeback. Yet crucial baskets from Cedric Alema and Deng Isaac restored Victoria’s cushion, keeping the Crocs in command.
UPDF still had a final chance after Serefio West Wesley missed two free throws in the dying seconds. The Tomahawks pushed forward, but Morris Okello missed a three-pointer and Henry Okoth failed to convert the rebound. Those missed opportunities summed up their night as the final buzzer confirmed a 67-62 defeat, ending their survival hopes and sealing relegation.
For the Victoria Crocs, the victory not only secured their place in the National Basketball League but also capped their season with one of their most significant wins.
