In a thrilling start to their 2024 playoffs campaign, the KIU Rangers put in a great performance to grab a profound 80-47 victory against the Miracle Ravens during the first game of the quarterfinals at Lugogo Indoor Arena on Wednesday.
The Rangers took charge from the start and led 46-22 at the halftime mark. The outcome was never in question, permitting them to relax and play a controlled game with, well, just about a full quarter ahead.
During the third quarter, the Rangers extended their lead ahead with a score of 69-36 and added another 11 in the last quarter, which sealed the fate of the game.
Key Performances
Mary Moses Amaniyo hit 15 points to be the top scorer in the game with 15, but the centerpiece of the game was captain Ines Kanyamuneza. Her impact was felt all around the court, leading her to be named the Player of the Game. Kanyamuneza registered 14 points, five rebounds, and five assists, showing ability in playing all aspects of the game and also leading her team.
Sharon Kirabo had 13 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. She has also been consistent on match days, which has added to the strength of the side.
The match saw Fildauce Namulema start yet another for the side. She put up 10 points, along with two rebounds and three assists, and was enough to keep proving debts to the side’s move ensuring a place in the playoffs.
With this win, the KIU Rangers are one victory away from sealing a place in the semifinals.
Reactions
Post-match, an excited Coach Julius Lutwama said, “It’s quite exhilarating to start the playoffs with such momentum. It was a big game for us, most especially considering that we defeated a team like Miracle Ravens with a margin of over 30 points. Game two we just need to loiter around keeping our composure and remain humble as we do the business as quickly as possible. We are happy to have Fildauce back, of course, with guidance from the medical team. We wish her recovery as we proceed.”
Ines Kanyamuneza also commented about being named Player of the Game:
I feel happy to be named player of the game again and I would like to thank Rangers for today’s work. First of all, the reason that I believe that we won by this margin is playing as a team, and playing with a reason for winning that means: to ease our way up to the next round. Coming into the next game, I think we just need to start from where we ended today.
Ines Kanyamuneza
STARTING LINE UP 1. Fildauce Namulema, 2. Stella Nanfuka, 3. Mary Moses Amaniyo, 4. Sharon Kirabo, 5. Ines Kanyamuneza for the rangers, who are preparing for the second game, seeing no need for being downhearted, as they are still resolute on how to maintain the winning streak to give them a sure chance of qualifying.
