JKL Lady Dolphins on Sunday won the 2023 women’s National Basketball League (NBL) after they defeated KIU Rangers 68-50 in game five of the finals of the playoffs played at the Lugogo indoor stadium in Kampala.
The win in game five ensured that JKL won the best-of-seven series 4-1, adding a third league title to their trophy cabinet following victories in 2018 and 2019.
JKL has had a good show in the playoffs and they lost only one game and that’s in the final against KIU. They swept A1 Challenge (2-0) and UCU (3-0) in the quarterfinals and semifinals respectively.
In the Sunday game, JKL dominated proceedings for most of the time with Hope Akello leading the way with 15 points and 11 rebounds. She was also named the season MVP, best rebounder, and best defensive player.
Rita Imanishimwe and Brenda Ekone also posted double figures with 15 and 13 points respectively.
In a losing effort, Rose Amaniyo (14 points) and Ines Kanyamunza and Perus Nyamwenge (11 points each) stood out for KIU Rangers.
The JKL Lady Dolphins have been a dominant force in women’s basketball for the past few years, and it looks like they are on track to continue their winning ways. Their third league title is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport.
However, despite losing the women’s championship, KIU will be proud of themselves for this has been their best ever campaign because it was their maiden appearance in the final.
Up next for JKL is the FIBA Zone V Women’s Championship slated for October 28 to November 4 in Kigali, Rwanda.
Past Winners of the women’s National Basketball League:
2023 – JKL Lady Dolphins
2022 – UCU Lady Canons
2021 – Not Played (Covid-19)
2020 – Not Played (Covid-19)
2019 – JKL Lady Dolphins
2018 – JKL Lady Dolphins
2017 – UCU Lady Canons
2016 – UCU Lady Canons
2015 – UCU Lady Canons
2014 – KCCA Leopards
2013 – UCU Lady Canons
2012 – KCCA Leopards
2011 – UCU Lady Canons
2010 – UCU Lady Canons
2009 – KCCA Leopards
2008 – UCU Lady Canons
2007 – KCCA Leopards
2006 – Lady Bucks
2005 – A1 Challenge
2004 – Lady Bucks
2003 – Makerere Sparks
2002 – Lady Bucks
2001 – Lady Bucks
2000 – Lady Bucks
1999 – Lady Bucks
1998 – Lady Bucks
