We won’t settle for bronze, we shall go Go for gold come next season
By A.Johnson Akilis |13:55 | Monday 2 Sept
When Goldmine Finance M.D. Allan Tayebwa declared, “If you don’t join the Jaguars now, you will join them in the future but at a cost,” he wasn’t joking. The Lady Jaguars proved him right by ending their season in spectacular style, clinching a bronze medal with a historic victory over the KIU Rangers. This was no ordinary win; it was the first time the lady Jaguars had ever defeated the Rangers, an opponent that had repeatedly outperformed them in past games. The lady Jaguars’ triumph not only marked a significant milestone in their journey but also solidified their status as a rising force in the league.
The team came out strong from the start, quickly establishing a dominant lead with a 20-8 first-quarter scoreline that set the tone for the rest of the game. Brenda and Mambo were unstoppable from beyond the arc, combining for four three-pointers in the opening half and finishing with 10 and 15 points, respectively.
While the Rangers struggled to find their footing, the Jaguars showcased their growth and determination, playing with poise and precision. By halftime, the Jaguars were up 34-19, and despite a valiant effort from the Rangers’ Sharon Kirabo and Ines Kanyamuneza, who each scored 20 points in the second half, the Jaguars never wavered. They executed on both ends of the court, maintaining their lead and closing out the game with a convincing 70-50 victory.
Three Things You Missed:
1. A New Standard of Success: The Lady Jaguars captured the bronze medal and solidified their position as one of the top three teams in the league. “Last year we were 4th; today, we are 3rd,” said coach Cuthbert. “Next year, we won’t settle for second; we’re aiming to be the best.”
2. Breaking the Curse: This game marked the first time the Jaguars defeated the KIU Rangers. The Rangers, the last team to fall to the Jaguars since their transformation, had no answer for the renewed intensity and strategic play.
3. A Team Effort #OBONATO: The Jaguars’ win was a total team effort, with four players scoring in double digits. The team committed only 17 turnovers, with the Rangers scoring just seven points off them. Sarah contributed a stellar double-double, with 10 points and 16 rebounds, demonstrating the depth and versatility that powered this breakthrough win.
With their sights set firmly on next season, the Lady Jaguars are not just satisfied with their bronze. They’ve set the bar higher and are already preparing to skip the second step and reach for Gold.