Tuesday, July 30*Magic Stormers 58-68 UCU Lady Canons (0-2)*UCU Canons 62-79 KCCA Panthers (1-1)
KCCA Panthers revived their season by securing a decisive 79-62 victory against the UCU Canons in Game Two of their quarterfinal series on Tuesday at the YMCA Court in Wandegeya.
The best-of-three series is now tied at 1-1, setting up a winner-takes-all Game Three on Friday.
After a disappointing 80-60 loss in Game One, the Panthers, led by coach Raymond Muhumuza, faced a daunting challenge against a team they had already defeated twice during the regular season.
However, their spirited performance on Tuesday has rekindled their aspirations for advancing in the playoffs.
The Panthers set the tone early, leading the first quarter 20-13 and maintaining their advantage throughout the game.
Their dominance was evident in their defensive prowess, which forced UCU into 20 turnovers and stymied their offensive efforts.
KCCA’s control of the boards was another critical factor, as they out-rebounded UCU 47-40.
Davis Assiimwe was a standout performer, scoring a game-high 22 points on 6-for-14 shooting.
Emmanuel Odongkara added a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Caesar Kizito and Stephen Otoa contributed 12 and 10 points respectively.
For the Canons, Abraham Isyagi and Jerry Kayanga managed 11 and 10 points, respectively, but their efforts were insufficient against the relentless Panthers.
With the series now balanced, the decisive Game Three on Friday will determine who advances to face the nine-time league champions, City Oilers, in the semifinals.
Meanwhile, the Nam Blazers and KIU Titans will contest the other best of five semifinal matchup.
