The Namuwongo Blazers proved their championship credentials on Sunday night, outlasting UCU Canons 85-76 in overtime to storm into the 2025 National Basketball League final at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
For long spells, the Blazers appeared second-best, chasing the game after UCU’s fast start that saw Florence Dushime nail a buzzer-beating three to give the Canons a 22-21 edge at the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the Mukono-based side still looked firmly in control, leading 40-37.
But the Blazers’ depth and experience slowly tilted the balance. Inspired by Michael Makiadi, Peter Obleng, and veteran guard Jimmy Enabu—all of whom hit double figures—the Blazers wrestled control in the third quarter before being dragged into a nail-biting finish. UCU refused to go quietly, rallying to tie the game at 73-all and forcing overtime.
That, however, was as far as the Canons’ resilience stretched. In the extra period, they managed just three points as fatigue set in, while the Blazers ran away with the contest, sealing a statement nine-point win.
The result underscored the gulf in playoff experience: the Canons showed heart, but the Blazers showed maturity. With the final beckoning, Namuwongo now stand one step away from their long-cherished dream of an NBL crown.
