Sports 9 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Unbeaten City Oilers Take on Threatening Rez Life in NBL Clash
City Oilers, riding a nine-game winning streak after losing last season's title to Namuwongo Blazers, face newly promoted Rez Life at Lugogo. Rez Life sits fifth with seven wins and two losses, posing a potential challenge to the high-flying champions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/basketball/high-flying-city-oilers-face-rez-life-5418514
City Oilers are determined to reclaim their dominance in the National Basketball League after dropping the title for the first time in a decade. Coach Andrew Tendo’s squad lost 4-2 to Namuwongo Blazers in last year’s finals despite an early 2-0 lead, capped by a 68-55 defeat on November 5, 2025.
Since then, Oilers have been unstoppable, securing nine straight victories. Their season kicked off with a 74-65 win over the Blazers and peaked with an 85-60 thrashing of Victoria Crocs last Friday.
Key players like Fayed Baale, newcomer Joel Lukoji, and Landry Ndikumana have fueled the offensive surge. In the Crocs game, Baale ignited the third quarter with back-to-back threes, while the defense clamped down, holding opponents to just six points in the final frame. Baale scored 16 points, Lukoji added 12, and Malual Dier contributed 11.
Titus Lual’s return from injury has been crucial, averaging 11.7 points and 9.5 rebounds as a two-time MVP. Currently second on the log, Oilers face fifth-placed Rez Life on Friday at 9pm at Lugogo, following the 7pm Blazers vs. JT Jaguars matchup.
Rez Life, freshly promoted, has won seven of nine games and could test the leaders.
Recent Wednesday results: Nabisunsa 72-73 Angels, JKL 55-72 UPDF, Rockets 52-82 UCU Canons, UPDF 70-62 JKL.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)