National Basketball league
Friday (YMCA wandegeya)
UCU lady Canons v KIU Rangers 7pm
Namblazers v Sommet 9pm
After two narrow, gut-wrenching defeats, the Namuwongo Blazers return to action this Friday, July 4th, with a point to prove as they face a confident Sommet BC side at YMCA Wandegeya. Still leading the National Basketball League standings with 34 points, the Blazers are under pressure to snap their losing streak and reaffirm their title credentials.
Both losses, first to UCU Canons and then to the Kampala Rockets came under dramatic circumstances. In each game, the Blazers were in control with less than a minute to play, only to see victory slip through their fingers. Against UCU, a late swing of events turned a likely win into a stunning collapse, while a crucial turnover by Tonny Drileba against the Rockets proved decisive. The combined margin of defeat across the two matches? Just six points.
Such late-game struggles mark a stark contrast from their first-round form, when the Blazers were known for finishing games with composure and clutch plays including a notable win over defending champions City Oilers. Now, with the playoffs approaching, their ability to close out games is suddenly a concern.
To shore up their roster, the Blazers dipped into the mid-season market, signing Ivan Muhwezi and Anthony Chukwurah. The additions have added depth and flexibility, although key signing Ezeani Okuchukwu is yet to make his debut. His arrival is expected to strengthen the frontcourt and offer a physical presence down low.
Meanwhile, Sommet BC arrive with momentum and ambition. The playoff hopefuls are currently pushing for a top-four finish and have looked rejuvenated since bolstering their squad during the transfer window. Last season’s scoring champion Peter Cheng and sharpshooter Kasereka Tembo have added serious offensive firepower, while new big man Fataki Nyembo has steadied their interior game following the departures of Hon Kwany and Akok Peter.
With their improved form, Sommet are looking to climb into the third-to-sixth bracket in the standings a strategic target that would help them avoid facing the Blazers early in the playoffs. They’re also shaping up to be a potential giant-killer in the postseason.
Friday’s clash could prove pivotal for both teams. For the Blazers, it’s a chance to regain rhythm and belief. For Sommet, it’s a chance to prove they belong among the league’s elite.
In the women’s division, UCU Lady Canons and KIU Rangers also square off in a tightly contested fixture. The Canons sit in fourth place with 29 points, just ahead of KIU on 28, with both teams eyeing improved playoff seeding.
