The JKL Lady Dolphins proved why they are champions-in-waiting with a spirited comeback to outlast the UCU Lady Jaguars 69-61 in Game Four of the National Basketball League Finals at the Lugogo Indoor Arena on Friday night.
Far from a walkover, this was a game of shifting momentum and mental toughness. The Lady Dolphins had to dig deep after being pushed to the edge by a hungry Jaguars side that refused to back down.
UCU started brightly, racing to a 6-0 lead before Hope Akello’s three-pointer got JKL on the board. By the end of the first quarter, it was clear this would be no easy night as both sides were deadlocked at 19-19.
The Lady Dolphins carried a slim 36-32 advantage into halftime, but the third quarter saw the Jaguars claw back with a dominant defensive spell, holding JKL to just eight points and taking a narrow 46-44 lead heading into the final frame.
However, champions always find another gear — and JKL did exactly that. With composure and precision, they stormed back in the fourth quarter, using their experience and depth to overwhelm the Jaguars and close out the game with authority.
Hope Akello led the charge with 17 points, supported by Evelyn Nakiyingi (12) and Ritah Imanishimwe (11), as JKL took a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
For the Jaguars, Mercy Batamuliza put up a monster performance with 18 points and 20 rebounds, while Rhoda Nagitta and Shakirah Nanvubya added 11 apiece — but it wasn’t enough to stop the Lady Dolphins from inching closer to yet another championship.
Now, with momentum firmly on their side, the Lady Dolphins stand just one win away from reclaiming their crown.
