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KIU Titans announced their intentions of competing for the National Basketball League championship by winning the two-day tournament in Mukono.
The 12th edition of the UCU Invitational Basketball Tournament produced first time winners on Sunday.
The event, dominated by hosts UCU Canons and City Oilers in the last few years, got new champions over the weekend.
KIU Titans announced their intentions of competing for the National Basketball League championship by winning the two-day tournament in Mukono.
The Titans defeated hosts UCU Canons 55-44 to land the silverware, one of the few in the team’s trophy cabin.
Julius Lutwama’s side were the more composed side down the stretch and landed the final punch to seal the deal.
KIU led 14-10 after the first quarter and 26-21 going into the halftime break.
Stanley Mugerwa, eventually named MVP, was the man making things happen for the Titans.
Saidi Amisi and Innocent Ochera were also a handful for opponents all weekend.
A third quarter fight back from the Canons saw them close the gap to just one point (38-37) going into the final quarter but there was no come back as KIU executed better in the final 10 minutes.
The Titans had defeated UPDF Tomahawks 60-55 in the semifinals while the Canons beat Ndejje Angels 49-41 to reach the final.
Lady Jaguars arrive
Meanwhile the JT Lady Jaguars announced their arrival on the big stage with victory in Mukono.
Jeff Omondi’s side defeated National Basketball League champions UCU Lady Canons 50-45 in the final to send a message to teams in the top flight.
With players like Zainah Lokwameri, Sarah Ageno and Rhoda Nagitta, the Lady Jaguars have what it takes to fight for the league title.
And the victory in Mukono is a clear indicator of what to expect when the season tips off.
Ageno was named tournament MVP while Lokwameri took home the top scorer’s accolade.
UCU Invitational Tournament
Finals
KIU Titans 55-44 UCU Canons (Men)
UCU Lady Canons 45-50 JT Lady Jaguars (Women)
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