Sunday, August 25
*KIU Titans 81-78 Nam Blazers (Overtime)
KIU Titans secured their place in the National Basketball League (NBL) finals after edging out Nam Blazers 81-78 in a decisive game five that went into overtime at Lugogo.
The win allowed the Titans to advance with a 3-2 series victory, setting up a rematch against the reigning champions City Oilers who have won it for the last nine seasons.
The game, which was closely contested from start to finish, saw a deadlock at 20-20 after the first quarter.
But the Titans managed to pull ahead in the second quarter, at one point leading by 12 points.
However, the Blazers fought back, gradually closing the gap and setting up a dramatic finish.
As the clock wound down, Nam Blazers were poised for a win, but Titans' guard Tembo Kasereka remained calm under pressure, sinking two crucial free throws to tie the game and force it into overtime.
In the extra period, KIU capitalized on costly mistakes by the Blazers, taking control and ultimately sealing their hard-fought victory.
Peter Obleng led the charge for the Titans, scoring a game-high 22 points, while Edgar Munaaba delivered an impressive double-double performance with 20 points and 17 rebounds.
Joel Lukoji and Kasereka also contributed significantly, adding 14 and 12 points, respectively.
On the Blazers' side, Innocent Ochera scored 19 points, Peter Cheng added 18, Michael Makiadi had 13, and Paul Odong contributed 11, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the determined Titans.
This victory marks KIU Titans' third appearance in the NBL finals as they continue their quest for a maiden league title.
The finals series, which will be played in a best-of-seven format, is set to begin on Wednesday.
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