JT Lady Jaguars sent a powerful statement of intent as they outclassed defending champions JKL Lady Dolphins 69-52 in Game One of the National Basketball League Finals at Lugogo Indoor Arena on Friday night.
Displaying grit, pace, and teamwork, the Jaguars looked the hungrier side from tip-off. Guard Sandra Wangeshi set the tone early, draining two quick three-pointers that ignited the Jaguars’ offense and helped them establish a 25-16 cushion by the end of the first quarter.
Coach Boniface Okello’s charges maintained their rhythm into the second period, using fast breaks from Rhoda Nagitta, Brenda Kayaga, and Maimuna Nabbosa to unsettle JKL’s half-court setup. Though the Lady Dolphins adjusted with experienced heads Flavia Oketcho and Tamasha Nsubuga, the Jaguars’ persistence ensured they went into halftime leading 37-31.
JKL rallied in the third quarter, testing the Jaguars’ resolve, but the challengers refused to yield. With Wangeshi orchestrating the offense and Shakira Nanvubya dominating the boards, JT Lady Jaguars kept their composure to close the quarter 50-42 ahead.
The final stretch belonged entirely to the Jaguars. Their defensive discipline suffocated JKL’s offense, limiting them to just 10 points in the last period while capitalizing on every turnover to seal a 17-point triumph.
Wangeshi led by example with 15 points, while Nanvubya (13) and Sarah Ageno (10) added solid contributions. For the reigning champions, Brenda Ekone (16) and Hope Akello (12) were the only players to hit double figures.
With that commanding performance, JT Lady Jaguars not only drew first blood in the best-of-seven series but also served notice that the throne won’t be surrendered easily this season.
