Michael Buzangu failed to inspire Warriors to a second stright win over KIU. Photo by Shaban Lubega.
KIU Titans put up a spirited performance to defeat Pemba Warriors 71-55 in the second game of the Men’s National league playoff semi finals at the MTN Indoor Arena in Lugogo.
After they were defeated 76-72 in the first game, the University side needed big perfomances from some of its stars and you can trust that most did not disappoint as a collection of starters Sudi Ulanga, Chris Omanye and Micheal Bwanga stole the show on the night scoring 40 of the 71 points.
Ulanga top scored on the night with 13 points, three rebounds and three steals while Bwanga grabbed 7 rebounds, four assists and three steals on top of the 10 points he made.
Mark Opiyo and Michael Buzangu scored 12 and 11 points in a losing effort for the Kyambogo based side.
It was a tight contest at the start with the first quater ending 17-18 in Warriors’ favour, but it was in the second quarter where Ronnie Mutebi’s side went into a deep slumber, managing just one basket (2 points) in 10 minutes.
What the coaches say
“We played as a team today,” stated Brian Wathum, KIU Titans coach.
Warriors coach Ronnie Mutebi, who looked completely hard-done said it was a mentally tough encounter as they failed to step up.
“We will go to the drawing board and strategise so as we take this series,” Mutebi said.
Both sides will return on court this Wednesday in game three at YMCA outdoor court in Wandegeya.
In the other games played, city Oil took a 2-0 lead in the other semi finals series after defeating BetWay Power 77-59 on the same night.
Oilers won the first game on Friday 80-70.
In the women divison, UCU Lady canons defeated JKL Lady Dolphins 72-52 while KCCA Leopards were 64-48 victors over A1 Challenge.
KCCA Leopards now lead 2-0 in the series after a 64-62 victory in the first game.
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