National Basketball League
City Oilers 75-71 Betway Power
Defending champions City Oilers staged a stunning comeback to edge past a resilient Betway Power side in game three of the best of seven series played on Wednesday at the MTN Arena, Lugogo.
After a dismal start to the game, the three time champions surged up in the fourth and final quarter to claim victory (75-71) and take a 2-1 lead in the series. Power began the better side building an early 6 point lead through Mike Makiadi and Isaac Afidra inside the opening two minutes.
The gap even grew further as Power cruised to a 26-09 lead at the end of the first quarter.
City Oiler’s coach Mande Juruni received marching orders after earning a double technical at the start of the second period.
However, the three time champions returned better in the second quarter combining for 20 points to Power’s 11 and the gap reduced to just eight points (37-29) by halftime.
Even after recess, City Oilers kept surging and within two minutes into the third period the gap had narrowed to just one point with Power leading 37-36.
Arnold Lando’s charges however regained their lead and the third quarter ended 54-47 with Power taking a seven point gap cushion into the final 10 minutes.
Two successive jump shots from Jimmy Enabu midway through the fourth quarter ensured City Oilers levelled the scores at 55 all before a free throw by Landry Ndikumana put Oilers ahead for the first time.
The lead kept oscillating from either side in the final minutes but Oilers eventually went ahead to win the game 75-71.
Kami Kabangu had a game high 21 points plus 11 rebounds for City Oilers. His teammates Jimmy Enabu and Ben Komakech managed 15 and 13 points respectively. Michael Kojjo had a team high 16 points for Power.
Game four will be played this Friday at the MTN Arena, Lugogo.