The Namuwongo Blazers have ignited their semifinal campaign in fiery fashion, striking first in the best-of-five series with a gritty 68-60 victory over UCU Canons at a charged Lugogo Indoor Arena on Tuesday night.
Head coach Stephen Nyeko’s masterstroke in squad rotation proved decisive, as the Blazers outpaced and outmuscled their Mukono-based rivals, who faltered in their shooting rhythm.
UCU could only sink three of their 20 attempts from deep, a cold spell that haunted them all game.
The Blazers came out guns blazing, storming to an 11-point cushion (27-16) by the end of the opening quarter, sending their red-hot supporters into a frenzy of chants and celebrations.
UCU tried to claw back, with Joel Kayira’s layup trimming the halftime deficit to eight points (40-32).
In the third period, Arthur Wanyoto’s simple finish ensured the Blazers carried a seven-point lead (56-49) into the decisive quarter.
From there, Nyeko’s men showed composure beyond measure, managing the clock and dictating the tempo to close out a commanding Game 1 triumph.
On the scoring front, Ivan Muhwezi (14 points), Joel Lukoji (12), and Anthony Chukwubuka (10) delivered in double digits for the Blazers, showcasing balanced firepower.
Meanwhile, UCU’s Joel Kayira battled valiantly with a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds, but his lone brilliance couldn’t tilt the tide.
With the victory, Namuwongo Blazers draw first blood in the semifinals, leaving the Canons with much to ponder ahead of Game 2.
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