NBL women’s playoffs semifinals set to ignite with powerhouse matchups

The 2024/25 National Basketball League (NBL) Women’s Playoffs semifinals tip off on Wednesday, October 1, promising high-stakes action as defending champions JKL Lady Dolphins face eight-time winners UCU Lady Canons, while JT Lady Jaguars battle the surging Magic Stormers in the second semifinal clash.

Lady Dolphins vs. Lady Canons

JKL Lady Dolphins cruised into the semifinals with a dominant 2-0 sweep over UPDF Lady Tomahawks. They opened with a commanding 79-52 win at the Jaguars Den and sealed the series with a 77-55 victory in Game Two.

The Dolphins enter the semifinals as clear favorites, led by Hope Akello—back-to-back MVP (2023 & 2024) and the league’s top scorer. Akello has topped the charts in scoring, offensive and defensive rebounds, field goal percentage, and ranks among the top 10 in assists and steals. She’s supported by a formidable cast including point guard Evelyn Nakiyingi, sharpshooters Brenda Ekon and Rita Imanishimwe, and veteran Zainah Lokwameri.

UCU Lady Canons also advanced with a 2-0 sweep, overcoming KIU Rangers in the quarterfinals. In Game Two, they staged a dramatic comeback after trailing by double digits at halftime, edging KIU 57-52. The turnaround was fueled by Sylvia Nakituka, Matrina Anyango, Shilah Lamunu, and Zoe Atek.

Lamunu led with 12 points, Nakituka added 11, Anyango scored 10, and Atek chipped in with 9. The Lady Canons have shown steady improvement this season, with Lamunu emerging as a confident floor general, Nakituka consistent from range, and Anyango a growing presence in the paint.

Lady Jaguars vs. Magic Stormers

In the second semifinal, JT Lady Jaguars take on the in-form Magic Stormers. The Jaguars swept Miracle Eaglets to reach this stage, closing out the series with a 72-58 win in Game Two.

Magic Stormers, meanwhile, delivered the biggest upset of the playoffs by eliminating KCCA Leopards. After dropping Game One, they rallied with two gritty wins, including a nail-biting 52-49 victory in Game Three to clinch the series.

Under coach John Omondi, the Stormers thrive on disciplined team defense. Angela Auma was a standout against KCCA and will be crucial again in the backcourt alongside Daphine Adong. In the frontcourt, Kur Ajah, Joy Nekesa, and She Cranes netballer Christine Nakito bring physicality and rebounding power, while Jesca Namugala adds leadership and experience.

JT Lady Jaguars, coached by Sudi Ulanga, will need to navigate Stormers’ full-court press and aggressive zone defense. Guards Shakira Nanvubya and Rhoda Nagitta must protect possession, while forwards Sarah Ageno and Bai Sangari will face a tough battle inside the paint.

Semifinal Schedule

The semifinals will follow a best-of-five format:

 Game 1: Wednesday, October 1 at YMCA

Game 2: Friday, October 3 at YMCA

Game 3: Sunday, October 5 at YMCA

Game 4 (if necessary): Wednesday, October 8 at Lugogo

Game 5 (if necessary): Friday, October 10 or Sunday, October 12 at Lugogo