It's never over until it's over; KIU Titans Cruise to the Finals
posted on Aug. 26, 2024, 1:43 a.m. - By Isaac Akugizibwe
KIU Titans have reached the 2024 National Basketball League finals after edging the Namuwongo Blazers 3-2 in the semifinals.
The Titans needed an 81-78 overtime victory in a highly contested game five on Sunday to make it two finals in two years.
Sunday's hard-fought triumph was the result of the Titans' never-say-never spirit, composure, and hunger.Julius Lutwama's boys started slowly but reacted as early as possible to tie the game at the end of the first quarter (2020) before taking the lead (41-38) at halftime.
They increased their lead by one more point at the end of the third quarter (57-51) before a dramatic fourth quarter saw the Namuwongo Blazers put up a remarkable run to take a two-point lead with only six seconds on the clock.
To survive a heartbreaking turnaround, the Titans required a well-composed Tembo to deliver from the free throw line, and the Congolese international never disappointed. He tied the score, and a failed charge from Peter Cheng saw the game into overtime, the first in this year's playoffs.
In overtime, the Titans outscored the Blazers (9-5) to close out the contest and send the fans at the fully parked Arena into frenzy.
Peter Obleng (22) and Edgar Munaba (20) combined for 42 points, while Joel Lukoji Banza also added 14 points to his impressive playoff tally.
Pierre Kasereka Tembo registered 12 points to complete the list of Titans with double figures.
KIU Titans will play City Oilers in the finals after the Oilers swept UCU Canons in their semifinal series. Having lost at game six in the NBL 2023 finals, the Titans will go into this final looking to win their maiden NBL trophy.
