Sports 1 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UCU Lady Canons Secure Record Ninth National Basketball League Title
The UCU Lady Canons have clinched their ninth National Basketball League crown, extending their record by defeating the JT Lady Jaguars 63-49 in the playoff finals. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the team after losing to the Jaguars in the regular season. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/basketball/ucu-lady-canons-win-record-extending-ninth-crown-5579178
The UCU Lady Canons have solidified their dominance in Ugandan women’s basketball by capturing their ninth National Basketball League championship. The team secured the title with a decisive 63-49 victory over the JT Lady Jaguars in the playoff finals, closing out the series 4-1.
This triumph represents a remarkable comeback for UCU, who had previously lost both regular season encounters to the Jaguars. Under the guidance of coach Nick Natuhereza, the Lady Canons demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the postseason, overcoming the KIU Rangers in the quarterfinals and the KCCA Leopards in a hard-fought semi-final.
Martina Anyango was instrumental in UCU’s success, earning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the playoffs. She averaged 16 points and 12 rebounds per game, contributing significantly with 15 points and 11 rebounds in the championship-clinching game. Zoe Atek and Shilla Lamunu also added 12 points each for UCU, who outrebounded their opponents 59-47.
The loss marks the second consecutive finals defeat for the JT Lady Jaguars, who were also runners-up last season. Coach Natuhereza’s strategic acumen was evident, particularly given his prior coaching relationship with several Jaguars players, including their head coach Sudi Ulanga.
This latest championship signals a new era for UCU after a four-year hiatus from the top spot, potentially setting the stage for a renewed rivalry in the league, especially with former champions JKL Lady Dolphins undergoing changes.