The 2023 NBL playoffs have already started and as expected, some teams have already showed their dominance while we have seen some shock results.

The 8 time champions are already through to the semifinals after sweeping the Kampala Rockets and doing so in style.

The Rockets put up a “fight” in Game 1 but still on with over 20 points and things got worse in game 2 when the Oilers went straight for the Jugular putting 121 points past the Rockets. Oilers await who they will play in the semifinals.

Both KIU teams started off with victories in Game 1. The Rangers dispatched the Miracle Ravens in an 8 point game while the Titans lead from the start despite KCCA Panthers putting up very spirited fight.

Our Savior came up very big against Ndejje and they took game 1 while the UCU Canons seemed to have gone into Playoff mode as they shocked Power in game 1.

As expected, the JKL Lady Dolphins made light work of A1 Challenge without being at Full force.

UCU Lady Canons just like the Canons started off with big wins. Most people tipped KCCA Leopards to win due to their incredible form in round 2. However the Lady Canons were very sharp and crafty managing to take game 1 and have the advantage.

The biggest shock of the weekend was the Magic Stormers managing to tie the series in game 2.

The Lady Jaguars took game 1 with easy finishing but the Stormers made their home work and came in game 2 with their goals clear.

Despite trailing by 18 points after the first quarter, the Stormers never lost their spirit, kept a clear head and continued playing with intent. They kept closing in the gap and by the end of the third it was just a 4 point game.

With their momentum on their side, they kept pushing and pushing and eventually stormed the Jaguars with a 1 point victory.

The Stormers and Jaguars will have to tussle it out in game 3 and both teams know that a semifinal place is at stake. Can the Jaguars survive the Storm?

Results

• Lady Jaguars 79:53 Magic Stormers
• City Oilers 88:68 KLA Rockets
• JKL L Dolphins 70:40 A1 Challenge
• Our Savior 84:60 Ndejje Angels
• KCCA Leopards 67:83 UCU L Canons
• Power 53:58 UCU Canons
• Magic Stormers 76:77 Lady Jaguars
• KIU Titans 88:83 KCCA Panthers
• KIU Rangers 66:58 Miracle Ravens
• KLA Rockets 70:121 City Oilers

The Playoffs return this Wednesday with Ravens v Rangers and Ndejje v Our Savior. Ravens need a “miracle” just like their name if they are to force game 3 while Ndejje need to draw inspiration from their win against City Oilers.

The Lady Canons and UCU Canons shall come with a single mission on Friday and that is to finish off the KCCA Leopards and D-Mark Power respectively.

All photos 📸 Toni Kamau/FUBA