The Uganda Netball Women’s Super League made a highly anticipated return on Saturday at the newly refurbished Nakivubo Stadium, with four exciting fixtures that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The highlight of the day was the intense showdown between netball powerhouses KCCA Netball Club and record champions NIC.
In a nail-biting contest that went down to the wire, KCCA edged NIC 40-39, claiming a dramatic one-goal victory that set the tone for what promises to be a gripping season. Fred Mugerwa’s KCCA side came out strong, with returning star Shadia Nassanga leading the charge. Nassanga’s sharp shooting and Brendah Nakazibwe’s commanding presence at the centre drove KCCA’s rhythm and control, allowing them to take the opening quarter 11-10.
The momentum continued into the second quarter, with KCCA stretching their lead to four goals at one point. However, errors from their shooting pair gave NIC a lifeline, and by halftime, KCCA narrowly led 19-18. Signs of a resurgence from NIC were already evident, and they roared into the third quarter with renewed energy, outscoring KCCA 12-8 and taking their first lead of the match at 30-27.
The final quarter was intense, with NIC starting the last 15 minutes with a four-goal cushion and centre pass. However, KCCA’s defensive trio, Shaffie Nalwanja, Kitimbo Flavia, and Christine Nakitto, stood tall, producing two crucial steals that turned the momentum back in KCCA’s favor. When the final moment came, it was Shadia Nassanga again who sank the winning shot, sealing a memorable victory for the Kasasiro Girls.
The result echoed a similar outcome from the 2022/23 season when KCCA also won the first leg against NIC. Coach Fred Mugerwa praised his team’s composure and spirit after the game, and KCCA will now look to carry their momentum into match day two when they face Busia Greater Lions.
Elsewhere on Match Day One, UCU Angels dominated newcomers Dynamite Netball Academy 54-35 to top the table, thanks to a strong performance and numerical advantage. UPDF edged UGISA Netball Club 46-43, while Busia Greater Lions narrowly beat UGX-LUWEERO 44-42.
Saturday’s Results – Matchday One:
- UCU Angels 54-35 Dynamite Netball Academy
- NIC Netball Club 39-40 KCCA Netball Club
- UPDF 46-43 UGISA Netball Club
- Busia Greater Lions 44-42 UGX-LUWEERO
