Having taken a 3-0 lead going into game four of their best of seven National Basketball final series against KIU Titans on Friday, it only seemed a matter of time before City Oilers would be confirmed as champions. They were duly crowned following a 68-60 triumph over KIU TItans but were not the only winners on a night that also saw the season’s outstanding performers recognized all at the Lugogo MTN Arena.
Betway Power’s Michael Makiadi was among those winners earning the regular season MVP gong as they finished as third seeds going into the playoffs. The lanky forward averaged a league high 19 points and 13 rebounds in the 22-game regular season before Betway Power’s semi-final elimination at the hands of eventual champions City Oilers. The latter then went on to clinch a fifth straight title following another series whitewash this time over KIU Titans to complete the post season without losing a game. Veteran forward and national team captain Stephen Omony ran the show for the Oilers in the final game sinking a game high 22 points on the back of 6 for 12 shooting from three point range.
“We have many winners in the team and today Komakech (Ben) and Omony stepped up,” City Oilers coach Mandy Juruni noted afterwards. They held off a strong second quarter challenge from KIU who prevailed 21-14 before they recovered to win the last two quarters 11-10 and 27-16. James Okello added 10 points and 11 rebounds while Jimmy Enabu scored all his 11 points in the final period. Okello averaged 12.5 points and 10 rebounds in the four finals’ games and teammate Landry Ndikumana averaged 10 points and 15 boards to scoop the playoff MVP crown. KIU Meanwhile competed in all four games but were exposed by a lack of experience in what was a maiden finals appearance for the team and the majority of the roster.
“I cannot ask for changes to our team. We just need to work harder. With all due respect they were not exceptional but did the basics right. They are worthy champions,” KIU guard Chris Omanye stated. Omanye’s 18 points was the only double figure for a Titans player on a night when shooting guard Sudi Ulanga struggled with his shot.
The Oilers are now one title short of record six time champions Falcons but level with Betway Power at five league titles each.
2017 National Basketball League Individual accolades
Playoff MVP Men: Landry Ndikumana (City Oilers)
Playoff MVP women: Vilma Achieng (UCU Lady Canons)
Regular season MVP men: Michael Makiadi (Betway Power)
Regular season MVP women: Brenda Ekone (Nkumba Lady Marines)