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The National Basketball League finals are set to ignite on Friday, with the City Oilers and KIU Titans clashing in a 2017 finals rematch.
The National Basketball League finals are set to ignite on Friday, with the City Oilers and KIU Titans clashing in a 2017 finals rematch.
City Oilers are on the hunt for an unparalleled ninth championship. On the flip side, the Titans aim to orchestrate one of Uganda's most memorable sports upsets by securing their maiden title in their second attempt.
Here's a closer look at players poised to leave a mark on this finals series:
Fayed Bbaale - City Oilers
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The star point guard, Bbaale, is steering into his second finals. He seeks a contrasting outcome from his 2019 loss as a UCU Canon player against the City Oilers.
Although not at his usual prime in the semi-final against Our Savior, he averaged 11.3 points per game, with two and four assists.
There's a high expectation that these stats will escalate as he eyes his inaugural championship.
Saidi Amisi - KIU Titans
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Amisi, acquainted with the finals' electrifying atmosphere, is battling for his first title. An injury marred his semi-final series against the UCU Canons, limiting his playtime.
Yet, he managed an impressive 12 points per game, alongside five rebounds and two assists, propelling the Titans to the finals. For the Titans to clinch the championship, Amisi must be at his zenith.
Ruai Luak - City Oilers
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Luak, the Oilers' scoring dynamo, has been a formidable offensive asset for the reigning champions. He's definitely on the Titans ' radar, with an average of 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists in the semi-finals.
Dennis Balungu - KIU Titans
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Balungu's mid-season recruitment by the Titans made many basketball aficionados sit up and take notice. He has supercharged the offence of the Kansanaga-based team this season.
His sharpshooting prowess was pivotal in the UCU Canons' ouster, particularly from long-range and mid-range. He tallied an impressive 12 points per game, complemented by eight rebounds and an assist during the series.
Mer Maker - City Oilers
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In the semi-finals against Our Savior, Maker emerged as the Oilers' linchpin, shouldering offensive and defensive responsibilities. The Center registered a 10-point, 11-rebound double-double across the series and is raring to play a more central role in the finals.
Collins Kasujja - KIU Titans
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A known offensive menace since his days with the Namuwongo Blazers, Kasujja is yet another Titan with prior finals experience.
He recorded an average of nine points and four assists per game in the semi-finals against the Canons. This time, he's fueled by the ambition to clinch the coveted championship.
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