KIU Rangers Set for UCU Task in NBL Quarterfinals

By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU Main Campus - KIU Rangers are in high spirits ahead of a doubleheader clash with UCU Lady Canons in the 2025 National Basketball League (NBL) quarterfinals this weekend.

The quarterfinal series, set to begin Friday, will follow a best-of-three format with the Rangers vs Lady Canons tipping off this year's NBL playoffs. KIU could secure a semifinal berth with victories against the Lady Canons on Friday and Sunday.

According to the fixture released by the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations on Monday, Game 1 will tip off at 7 p.m. Friday at Lugogo Indoor Arena. Game 2 is scheduled for the same time on Sunday at the same venue.

This has been one of the Rangers’ most challenging seasons in recent years. They finished fifth in the regular season with an 11-9 record, while the Lady Canons, the league’s record champions, placed fourth.

At one point in the season, the Rangers had only six players available, with several team members away for the East Africa Netball Championship. Despite the setback, the team managed to win three of five games during that stretch.

KIU will be aiming to reach the semifinals for the fourth consecutive year and to avenge last year’s playoff loss to UCU, who denied them a second straight finals appearance. Confidence is high following a regular-season win over the Lady Canons, their first in recent memory.

“That win was big for our confidence, but we know the playoffs are a different stage,” said Rangers captain Ines Kanyamuneza.

“UCU is a great team with a strong legacy, but we believe it’s time to write a new chapter. We respect them, but we’re not afraid. The goal is clear: compete, stay focused, and break that so-called curse.”

Head coach Julius Lutwama will welcome increased squad depth for the postseason, bolstered by the addition of Djeneba Ballo and Rokie Coulibaly.

“The team is locked in. Training intensity has been high, and everyone understands the stakes,” Kanyamuneza said.

“We’re healthy, mentally prepared, and hungry. Every player knows their role, and we’re ready to fight for each other on that court.”

Despite a below-par regular season, Kanyamuneza remains KIU’s most dependable player and hopes the playoffs will spark a return to her best form.

“Personally, I feel in good shape and confident in what I bring to the team,” she said. “But I believe in teamwork above all. I’m ready to lead and work hand in hand with my teammates for better results. We’ve built a culture where everyone contributes.”

Sharon Kirabo, recently back from national duty, is also expected to play a key role. Alongside Kanyamuneza, she is one of the team’s longest-serving players and remains determined to help the Rangers secure their first league title.

Veteran guard Elizabeth Akol has enjoyed a strong season and will be vital to the Rangers’ offensive efforts. However, point guard Fildauce Namulema remains doubtful for Game 1.

Other available players include Raechel Nanyonga, Stella Nanyonga, Patience Karungi, Patricia Alado, and Leticia Awor.

Kanyamuneza closed with a message to Rangers fans:
“To our fans, I can promise heart, hustle, and the will to win. We’re going all in and will leave everything on the floor. Stick with us,this journey is far from over.”