🏀 JKL Lady Dolphins crowned 2025 National Champions in thrilling finale

National Basketball League finals 

Sunday 2rd ( Lugogo)

Game 5

Lady Dolphins 69 Lady Jaguars 68

The JKL Lady Dolphins have once again etched their name in Ugandan basketball history, clinching the 2025 Women’s National Basketball League title after a nail-biting 69–68 victory over the JT Lady Jaguars at Lugogo Indoor Arena on Sunday, November 2nd.

This triumph marks JKL’s fifth league championship, adding to their previous wins in 2018, 2019, 2023, and 2024. It also secures their third consecutive title, reinforcing their dominance as the premier women’s basketball team in Uganda.

The Lady Jaguars came out firing, launching a 6–0 run and closing the first quarter with an 18–9 lead. Their aggressive start forced JKL to tighten their defense and rethink their strategy. In the second quarter, JKL captain Hope Akello sparked a comeback with two quick jump shots, helping her team erase the deficit. By halftime, the score was tied at 34–34, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.

JKL surged ahead in the third quarter, with Angella Zainah Lokwameri leading the charge to build a 10-point cushion (55–45). Despite a spirited effort from the Lady Jaguars in the final minutes—including a clutch three-pointer from Rhoda Nagitta—the Dolphins held on for a one-point win.

Hope Akello delivered a standout performance with 14 points, 18 rebounds, and 7 assists, earning her the Playoffs Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the fourth consecutive year. Supporting her were Ritah Imanishimwe and Becky Longom, who each contributed 11 points. JKL’s bench also played a crucial role, adding 37 points to secure the win.

On the Lady Jaguars’ side, Brenda Kayaga led all scorers with 24 points. Mercy Batamuliza added a double-double with 14 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks, while Maimuna chipped in 10 points and Nagitta dished out 6 assists. It was a commendable showing for a team making its first-ever finals appearance.

After dropping Game One, JKL bounced back with four straight wins to take the best-of-seven series 4–1. Their experience and defensive discipline proved decisive under pressure. JKL’s path to the title began with a dominant regular season, followed by playoff victories over UPDF Lady Tomahawks and UCU Lady Canons before facing the Jaguars in the finals.

For JT Lady Jaguars, reaching the championship round was a milestone. Their 3–0 sweep of Magic Stormers in the semifinals signaled their rise as a formidable force in Ugandan women’s basketball.

Several players were recognized for their outstanding performances throughout the season. Hope Akello won the Playoffs MVP, Top Scorer (478 points), and Top Rebounder awards. Mercy Batamuliza of JT Lady Jaguars was named Defensive Player of the Year, while UCU’s Hajjara Najjuko earned the Best 3-Point Shooter award. The Regular Season MVP went to Abigail Mpoza, and the league’s Best Five Players were Evelyn Nakiyingi, Shillah Lamunu, Abigail Mpoza, Hope Akello, and Mercy Batamuliza. Nabisunsa Girls were honored with the Fair Play Award.

With five titles now under their belt, JKL Lady Dolphins inch closer to the record held by UCU Lady Canons, who boast eight championships. Their continued success cements their legacy and sets the stage for another exciting season in Ugandan women’s basketball.

Winners

2025 – JKL Lady Dolphins

2024 – JKL Lady Dolphins

2023 – JKL Lady Dolphins

2022 – UCU Lady Canons

2021 – Not Played (Covid-19)

2020 – Not Played (Covid-19)

2019 – JKL Lady Dolphins

2018 – JKL Lady Dolphins

2017 – UCU Lady Canons

2016 – UCU Lady Canons

2015 – UCU Lady Canons

2014 – KCCA Leopards

2013 – UCU Lady Canons

2012 – KCCA Leopards

2011 – UCU Lady Canons

2010 – UCU Lady Canons

2009 – KCCA Leopards

2008 – UCU Lady Canons

2007 – KCCA Leopards

2006 – Lady Bucks

2005 – A1 Challenge

2004 – Lady Bucks

2003 – Makerere Sparks

2002 – Lady Bucks

2001 – Lady Bucks

2000 – Lady Bucks

1999 – Lady Bucks

1998 – Lady Bucks