Can UCU end playoff jinx?

By Charles Mutebi

THIS is the stage where the UCU Canons implode, the black hole responsible for their failure to reach the FUBA men’s division one finals. 

Three times the Canons have made it to the playoff semi-finals since 2007, three times they have been eliminated in a semi-finals decider. 

Today at the YMCA, UCU re-encounter their jinx, this time in the form of a Game 5 semi-finals showdown with the Kyambogo Warriors. 

“This is 2011 and that is what matters,” countered UCU coach Nick Natuhereza. “Most of the players on this team are new and there is only one player (Geoff Omondi) who has been around for all the three disappointments.”

Natuhereza’s side have been the better team in the series and put up an unforgettable performance in Game 4, which they lost 105-95 in double overtime with just three players on court. “The series should have been over by now but our focus is on finishing the job in Game 5,” Natuhereza vowed. Question is, have the Canons missed their chance? 

“I would like to believe so,” responded Ivan Enabu who lifted the Warriors with a splendid 27-point display in Game 4. 

One team that took their chance are Power. The reigning champions buried Miracle 84-79 in Game 4 of their semi-finals on Sunday to progress to the finals. Ben Komakech dropped 20 points for Power, who seized control with a 29-14 second quarter display. 

FUBA Playoffs

Results

Men’s division 1: 

Power 84 Miracle 79

Today at YMCA

Men’s division 1: 

Warriors  v Canons

Men’s division 2: 

Vegeterian v Stormers