Friday, July 10 | YMCA, Wandegeya
- Magic Stormers vs. Pearl Queens – 7:00 p.m.
- UCU Canons vs. Victoria Crocs – 9:00 p.m.
The business end of the 2026 National Basketball League is upon us, with the playoffs getting underway this weekend after nearly a month since the conclusion of the regular season.
The three-game first round of the playoffs tips off on Friday, July 10, with league newcomers Pearl Queens battling the Magic Stormers at YMCA, Wandegeya.
The Pearl Queens had a regular-season double over the Stormers, which could make the series interesting, considering the Stormers were semifinalists last season and have the ability to step up in the playoffs.
After early-season struggles, the Queens had bits of purple patches in the second round, having improved their roster.
Meanwhile, UCU Canons take on Victoria Crocs in what could be one of the closest contests of the first round.
Roger Sserunyigo’s Crocs play high-intensity basketball and have the energy to run all game, and the question has always been whether transition basketball can win a series.
Mark Ngobi and Chuol Nyuot have dazzled for Crocs all season, and they will give the Canons a lot to ponder about if they are to win the series.
The Canons, like their first round opponents, play a high-tempo basketball dominated by guards – Jimmy Otim, Flore Dushime, Daniel Muganzi, Marvin Okurut, Zac Ekirapa and the returning Ibanda Lwabaga – with one dependable big man in Jimmy Lihumi.
