In just their first season in the National Basketball League (NBL), Sommet have already carved out a moment for the history books, toppling giants City Oilers 86-74 in Game One of the semifinal series on Tuesday night at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
What began as a tense back-and-forth duel evolved into a statement of intent from the newcomers, who showed maturity beyond their years. After going into halftime tied 44-44, Sommet seized the initiative with a blistering third-quarter stretch that left the defending champions chasing shadows.
By the time the Oilers attempted a late rally in the fourth quarter, Sommet’s composure was evident. Mark Ngobi spearheaded the response with three decisive layups to extinguish the champions’ hopes and steady the ship in the closing minutes. Ngobi finished with 17 points, complementing the brilliance of Peter Cheng, whose double-double of 18 points and 15 rebounds underlined his dominance.
Nyembo Fataki also shone with 18 points before hobbling off injured late in the contest, while Kasereka Tembo (15) and John Focus Teko (12) rounded out a balanced scoring effort.
The Oilers, so often untouchable in the postseason, looked uncharacteristically flat. Kurt Curry Wegscheider’s 19 points led their charge, but beyond him the champions were wasteful, connecting on only six of their 33 three-point attempts. Moses Maker, usually a reliable contributor, endured a scoreless night as frustration mounted for the 10-time champions.
For Sommet, the night was more than just a win — it was proof that they belong among Uganda’s basketball elite. Making their playoff debut, the newcomers showed resilience, confidence, and fearlessness against the league’s most decorated side.
With the best-of-five series now tilted in their favor, Sommet head into Friday’s Game Two knowing they have already shaken the status quo — and perhaps ignited the possibility of a new era in Ugandan basketball.
