Makerere Sparks started their 2024 Division 1 campaign with a 35-58 loss against Kibuli. S.S at the YMCA court on Sunday, 10th March.

The Sparks had a lot of positive lessons to take home, and the biggest story was the debut of 5 of the 8 players on the roster for the first round. 

Captain Nabugasha Denise, Afuwa N, Mercy Ageno and Mukyala Patience all featured for Makerere University during the 2023 East Africa University Championship and the 19th AUUS Games at UCU, Mukono in December while Melisaa Favor was making her first appearance ever.

Ayak Madalene was a sensational after joining the Sparks in 2023 Round 2, Simon Konga played less than 10 games during the 2023 season while Nakiryowa Belinda was the most senior, appearing over 15 time during the 2023 season.

Despite the loss, the Sparks will be happy with the performance of some players like Simon Konga who had over 5 defensive stops in 2 v1 situations.

Mercy Ageno also showed spells of brilliance, picking a couple of rebounds and being dominant for a few spells. 

The biggest problem was the fouls, their 2 senior players Ayak Madalene and Belinda Nakiryowa were in early foul trouble, and this affected the team when they were off the floor.

The Sparks will be playing Amazon Rhinos in their next game on Sunday 17th at UCU, Mukono.

Stats

Mercy Ageno 15 points

Ayak Madalene 10 points

Mukyala Patience 4 points

Afua Nabawanga 4 points

Belinda Nakiryowa 2 points