No Hope Lost: KIU Titans Eye a Comeback in the Finals

posted on Sept. 4, 2024, 10:43 a.m. - By Isaac Akugizibwe

The Titans are facing a formidable challenge as they head into game four of the National Basketball League finals, trailing 3-0 against the City Oilers.

Game four tips off at 9 p.m. EAT at the Lugogo Indoor Arena on Wednesday evening.

While no team in the men’s National Basketball League has ever rallied from a 3-0 deficit to win a series, the Titans still have hope. They have shown flashes of brilliance and demonstrated strong team spirit in all three previous games—qualities they can build upon in their quest to mount a historic comeback.

However, they face the daunting task of winning four consecutive games against the formidable City Oilers. Julius Lutwama’s Titans will need to dig deep and find the resolve to push through this challenging situation.

In game three, the Titans pushed City Oilers to the limit, winning the rebounding battle 49-37 but falling short on the scoreboard, with only one player reaching double figures.

Team News

Guard Joel Lukoji Banza, who was nominated this week for the Real Stars Basketball Player of the Month (August), will be crucial to the Titans' efforts starting tonight.

His rejuvenated teammate, Peter Obleng, will also need to deliver a standout performance to help salvage what has been an otherwise thrilling season for the Titans.

Forward Edgar Munaba remains a reliable option for coach Julius Lutwama in this must-win scenario, while the team will be looking for Tembo to find his scoring touch.

The return to fitness of Congolese international Juf Mpiya is a significant boost for the Titans in tonight’s clash. Mpiya sustained a knock in game three after posting his best stats of the season with 24 points and 15 rebounds.

The Titans will also need stronger performances from big men Ivan Lumanyika and Stanley Mugerwa on both offense and defense to complement Juf Mpiya’s efforts.

Captain Collins Kasujja, along with Brian Opio, Carlos Isabu, Denis Omara, Ivan Lumanyika, and Stanley Mugerwa, are all available and ready to contribute in game four.