Ageno stars as Lady Jaguars snap UCU unbeaten streak
The game started slowly, with both sides struggling offensively, as the first basket came after three minutes. Nabbosa opened the scoring before Matrina Anyango responded for UCU.
JT Jaguars in a huddle during a timeout in the encounter against UCU Lady Canons. (Courtesy photo)
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JT Lady Jaguars captain Sarah Ageno said teamwork and discipline were key after her side ended UCU Lady Canons’ unbeaten run with a 55-51 victory in the National Basketball League on Friday at Lugogo.
She delivered nine points, 14 rebounds and six assists.
“I just focused on doing my role for the team, especially in defence and rebounds. My teammates trusted me, and that pushed me to give everything on the court,” Ageno said.
Lady Canons registered their first loss of the season after nine straight wins, with Maimuna Nabbosa adding 12 points.
The game started slowly, with both sides struggling offensively, as the first basket came after three minutes. Nabbosa opened the scoring before Matrina Anyango responded for UCU.
A late three-pointer from Shakirah Nanvubya gave JT Lady Jaguars a 16-14 lead at the end of the first quarter.
JT Lady Jaguars tightened their defence in the second period, limiting UCU’s easy scoring chances. Mariam Namukwaya kept UCU in the contest, but they trailed 32-26 at halftime.
The third quarter remained cagey, with both teams improving defensively but failing to convert chances. The game later turned into a tense finish as Sylvia Nantongo gave UCU a 50-49 lead late on.
However, JT Lady Jaguars held their nerve in the closing moments to secure the win.
The Lady Jaguars secured the result despite missing Rhoda Nagitta and Bridget Aber, showing resilience and squad depth.
The victory moves JT Lady Jaguars to 17 points from nine games, keeping pressure on leaders KCCA Leopards, who sit top with 18 points. UCU Lady Canons remain third with 16 points despite the loss.
Later, City Oilers remained the only unbeaten side after beating JT Jaguars 66-48, placing second with 14 points from seven matches. JT Jaguars are eighth with 12 points.
Elsewhere on Saturday in the women’s games, Miracle Eaglets defeated KIU Rangers 52-40, while KCCA Leopards dominated Angels 78-48 to maintain their lead. KIU Rangers sit mid-table with 13 points, while Angels remain at the bottom without a win.
In the men’s league, Namuwongo Blazers continued their strong run with a 106-68 victory over UPDF Tomahawks to stay top with 15 points from eight games.
KCCA Panthers are also on 14 points in third place after edging Kampala Rockets 68-64, while UPDF Tomahawks and Kampala Rockets remain in the lower positions with 12 and 10 points respectively.
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National Basketball League
Friday
Lady Jaguars 55 Lady Canons 51
Men
Oilers 66 Jaguars 48
Saturday
Men
Blazers 106 Tomahawks 68
Panthers 68 Rockets 64
Women
Eaglets 52 Rangers 40
Leopards 78 Angels 48