The mighty City Oilers were left reeling at the Lugogo Indoor Arena on Tuesday night after Sommet Basketball Club stormed to an emphatic 86–74 victory in Game 1 of the National Basketball League semifinals.
The result gave Sommet a 1–0 lead in the best-of-five series, sending shockwaves through the Oilers’ faithful as the record champions faltered under the bright lights.
Oilers, usually lethal from range, endured a nightmare evening from deep, hitting just six of 33 three-point attempts, a statistic that underscored their struggles.
Sommet showed intent from the onset, edging the first quarter 25–22 after John Focus Teko’s late layup.
The duel remained a seesaw battle, with Joseph Chuma’s layup restoring parity at 44–44 heading into halftime.
But the turning point came in the third stanza. City Oilers sputtered offensively, managing a mere 13 points, while Sommet seized control with a nine-point cushion heading into the final frame.
Backed by a raucous, packed Lugogo crowd, Sommet kept their composure to seal a 12-point statement win.
Peter Cheng was immense, registering a double-double of 18 points and 15 rebounds, with Fataki Nyembo (18 points) and Mark Ngobi (17 points) also lighting up the scoreboard.
For the Oilers, Kurt Wegscheider battled with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Chad Bowie (13 points) and Fayed Baale (11 points) offered resistance in vain.
With the Oilers’ dynasty under threat, all eyes now turn to Game 2 on Friday, September 19, at Lugogo.
