KIU Rangers beat Miracle Ravens 80-47 in playoff opener.
Rangers’ strong start and key performances secure dominant win.
Miracle Ravens struggle with turnovers despite strong rebounding.
Nam Blazers rally to defeat Our Saviour 73-61.
A Decisive Victory in Playoff Opener
The KIU Rangers took a significant step towards the National Basketball League (NBL) semifinals with a commanding 80-47 victory over the Miracle Ravens in the first game of the quarterfinals on Wednesday at Lugogo. This resounding win puts the Rangers in a favorable position, needing just one more victory in Sunday’s game two to advance in the best-of-three series.
Early Dominance Sets the Tone
From the opening whistle, the Miracle Ravens struggled to keep up with the Rangers’ intensity. Falling behind 27-09 in the first quarter, the Ravens never found their footing. The Rangers’ strong start laid the groundwork for their comprehensive performance throughout the game.
Star Performances Lead the Way
The Rangers’ starting lineup delivered exceptional performances, with four players scoring in double digits. Sharon Kirabo led the charge with a stellar double-double, recording 13 points and 10 rebounds. Rose Amaniyo topped the scoring with 15 points, while Ines Kanyamunza and Fildauce Namuleme, who was initially doubtful for the game, added 14 and 10 points respectively.
Miracle Ravens’ Struggles and Key Contributions
Despite their best efforts, the Miracle Ravens were unable to close the gap after their poor start. Lilian Cherotich and Brenda Alyano each scored 10 points for the Ravens, while Susan Amito and Akello Winfred stood out on the boards, securing 13 and 12 rebounds respectively. However, turnovers plagued the Ravens, with a total of 27 mistakes contributing to their downfall.
Rebounding Battle and Turnover Troubles
Interestingly, the Miracle Ravens out-rebounded the KIU Rangers 60-53, showcasing their efforts on the boards. However, their inability to protect the ball proved costly. The 27 turnovers significantly hindered their chances of mounting a comeback, emphasizing the importance of ball security in high-stakes playoff games.
Looking Ahead: Game Two and Series Implications
The Rangers’ victory in game one sets up a crucial game two on Sunday, where they will look to close out the series and secure their spot in the semifinals. For the Miracle Ravens, it’s a do-or-die situation as they fight to extend their season and force a deciding game three. The pressure is on for both teams, with the Rangers aiming to maintain their momentum and the Ravens seeking redemption.
Nam Blazers Edge Past Our Saviour in Thrilling Finish
In another NBL playoff quarterfinal, the Nam Blazers secured a hard-fought 73-61 win over Our Saviour on Friday. The Blazers, finalists in 2021, faced a tough challenge but staged a strong last-quarter comeback to take game one of their series.
A Tight Contest Throughout
The game was closely contested, with the Blazers trailing by two points going into the final quarter. However, a 13-0 run turned the tide in their favor, demonstrating their resilience and determination. Jimmy Williams led the scoring with 20 points, while Innocent Ochera and Joseph Chuma contributed 17 and 12 points respectively.
Our Saviour’s Long-Range Shooting Woes
For Our Saviour, Henry Ssebagala and Joseph Wacha scored 18 and 12 points respectively. Despite their efforts, Our Saviour struggled with their long-range shooting, managing only 3-for-22 from beyond the arc. This lack of efficiency from three-point range was a key factor in their defeat.
Blazers’ Early Struggles and Tactical Adjustments
The Nam Blazers also faced challenges early in the game. Coach Stephen Nyeko’s strategy of benching his starters for much of the opening exchanges resulted in a lack of momentum. However, the team’s ability to rally in the final quarter showcased their depth and adaptability.
Anticipation for Game Two
With game two scheduled for next Wednesday, the Nam Blazers will aim to close out the series and advance to the semifinals. Our Saviour, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their shooting issues to keep their playoff hopes alive. The stage is set for another intense showdown as both teams vie for a place in the next round.
