The opening game of the 2024 NBL playoffs saw the 2023 finalists KIU Rangers dominate and taking an easy win against the Miracle Ravens.

The opening quarter which saw the Rangers score 27 points and Miracle Ravens just 9 points set the tone for the remainder of the game and the Ravens never recovered.

By halftime, the Rangers led the game 46:22 and they were on their way to victory. 

The third quarter performance by  Miracle Ravens was similar to the opening quarter and the lead extended to 33 heading into the fourth quarter.

The output in the fourth quarter was far less than that in the first 3 and the game ended 80:47.

Talking points

The Miracle Ravens have had a problem of not fielding a full squad throughout the second round.

As has been the case, they had only 9 players available and it was not a secret that they needed some more firepower which wasn’t available.

The Miracle Ravens can’t execute in the half-court. Most of their points are through transition and with the possessions slightly reduced, it’s very difficult to put a lot of scores on the board.

Akello Winnifred had just 5 attempts and they need to create for her more opportunities if they are to have a chance in Game 2.

Brenda Alyano and Hanifah Namuli’s conversion was very poor. They scored a total 4 of 29 attempts and a performance like that, you stand no chance against  KIU Rangers.

For the Rangers, they will just have to make sure they start with the same energy and intensity that they started with and Game 2 could turnout to be a walk in the Park.

Match Stats

KIU Rangers

Ines Kanyamuneza 14 pts, 5 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl

Sharon Kirabo 13 pts, 10 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk

Mary Amaniyo 15 pts, 6 reb, 2 ast

Miracle Ravens

Brenda Alyano 10 pts, 4 reb

Lilian Cherotich 10 pts, 7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk

Susan Amito 7 pts, 13 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl