The Titans Won't Underestimate Ndejje Angels
posted on May 21, 2024, 10:45 a.m. - By Isaac Akugizibwe
KIU Titans return to the National Basketball League action this Wednesday to play Ndejje Angels at the Lugogo Indoor Arena, five days after beating D-Mark Power 91-67.
KIU Titans vs Ndejje Angels will be Wednesday's late tip off and will commence at 9pm local time.
Julius Lutwama's boys have been in great form since the beginning of the second round, registering four wins in a row.
All the four games have come with magnificent displays that have raised eyebrows across the Ugandan basketball fraternity, including the bookmakers, with some seemingly surprised by the team they initially underlooked.
With a 12-3 record,KIU Titans are fourth on the NBL-Men's table while Ndejje Angels who have won only three games this season are bottom with a 3-14 record.
The Titans will look to maintain their momentum when they come across the cunning Ndejje side, and according to Brian Opio, the boys won't take anything for granted.
"We are not going to look at Ndejje as an underdog because we are well aware of the consequences. So many so-called small teams have surprised the big teams, and Ndejje is capable of that," he said in a pre-game press conference on Monday.
"We are approaching every game as a final, and we won't take anything for granted. We are well aware that no team in the NBL can be an underdog; every team is capable of anything," he added.
The focus is on defense-Lutwama
KIU Titans head coach Julius Lutwama said in the pre-game press brief that most of the concentration going into Wednesday's clash is on defense.
"We are trying to work on our defense more because it is helping us improve on several other things, including ball movement."
"We tried to do it in our previous game but reached halfway. So we shall need to do more on Wednesday."
Lutwama praised Ndejje's approach to basketball, which makes them a unique organization.
"Ndejje is a transitional team, a team that is not afraid of anything; they shoot every time they have to and are very organized," he said.
"They like to drive a lot, and our aim is to work towards limiting their strength. We shall need to protect our paint and focus on playing one against one," he added.
Team News
The team will once again bank on the good shooting form of Pierre Kasereka Tembo, who is visibly beginning to enjoy life in a Titans shirt. The Congolese magician is in perfect health and ready to excite the crowds once more.
It's been a tremendous return for Peter Obleng, who has averaged 11.5 points in the last two games, and the Dunk King is truly back with a mission. He is also set to impress again.
Ivan Lumanyika will not be available for selection as he continues to regain match fitness.
The other members of the squad are in perfect health and will all be available for Julius Lutwama's game-day roster on Wednesday.
The Titans next game will be against JT Jaguars at the newly opened Nakivubo Stadium on June 1st.
