By 
Game result
JKL Lady Dolphins 59-52 UCU Lady Canons
In a high-stakes showdown that gripped the Lugogo Indoor Arena, the JKL Lady Dolphins edged out the UCU Lady Canons 59-52 in Game 5 of the NBL semifinals, punching their ticket to a sixth consecutive finals appearance.
From the opening tip, the energy on court was electric.
Both teams played like their seasons depended on every possession—because they did.
JKL took a narrow 15-11 lead after the first quarter, attacking the paint with clear intent.
UCU, in contrast, lived by the three but struggled early, converting just three of their 13 attempts from deep.
The second quarter saw UCU shift their approach, pounding the ball inside and stifling JKL’s offense in the paint.
The Canons outscored their opponents 14-8 and took a slim 25-23 lead into halftime.
But the break belonged to neither side—both had shown flashes, yet neither had separated.
Then came the third quarter, and with it, adjustments.
JKL began slicing into the lane, collapsing the defense and kicking out to open shooters.
Zainah Lokwameri’s drives opened up space for Hope Akello and Evelyn Nakiyingi, while Shadia Nassanga started to find her rhythm from her sweet spot—the baseline.
The Dolphins reclaimed the lead 43-41.
It was in the final stretch that JKL surged.
A 10-0 run in the fourth quarter, punctuated by Nassanga’s midrange jumper and celebratory roar, gave them a crucial cushion. UCU fought hard but couldn’t capitalize on open looks or crucial free throws.
Hope Akello, Zainah Lokwameri, and Shadia Nassanga led JKL with 11 points each, while Sylvia Nakituuka stood out for UCU, dropping 17 points and grabbing 7 rebounds in defeat.
JKL now turn their focus to the finals against the JT Lady Jaguars—formidable newcomers with a seasoned roster.
Noteworthy JT Lady Jaguars swept Magic Stormers and advance to their first ever NBL Playoffs Finals and they hope to leave a mark
For UCU, a third-place clash with the Magic Stormers awaits.
Once again, the Lady Dolphins prove they are the standard—and they’re not done yet.
