Umoja edge UON Terror to boost play-off hopes

The victory lifted Umoja to 27 points after 17 matches, having registered 10 wins and seven defeats, keeping them firmly in the race for a top-eight finish.

For UON Terror, the defeat compounded their struggles this season as they remain rooted in 12th place with 17 points from 15 matches, having managed just two wins against 13 losses.

The opening quarter was evenly balanced, with Terror losing 15-18 before Umoja responded strongly in the second period, scoring 27-19 as they went to halftime break with a  42-37 lead.

Both teams continued to battle after the break, with Terror narrowly taking the third quarter 17-13 to close the gap as Umoja stretched their advantage to 55-54 heading into the final period.

Umoja made one last push in the fourth quarter, outscoring Terror 14-10, as the experienced side held their composure in the closing minutes to secure a crucial five-point victory.

Umoja assistant head coach Victor Okello said the result was vital as the team continues its pursuit of a playoff spot.

"We really needed this win, because as things are on the standings winning was the only option to help us towards the playoffs."

On the other hand, UON Terror head coach Eugene Kalman expressed disappointment with the outcome, pointing to costly mistakes in decisive moments.

"It's a disappointing loss. At some point we had a nice run but unfortunately we made mistakes. But good job to Umoja, they executed when it mattered and took home the victory."

The win gives Umoja renewed momentum as the regular season enters its decisive stages, while Terror will be hoping to turn around their fortunes in their remaining fixtures to avoid finishing at the bottom of the standings.