Watoto came from down 0-2 to win 3-2 against Berkley in the semi-finals of the 2026 FUBA Division One. They won game five 54-51 to earn NBL promotion for the very first time.

In 2024, Watoto got relegated from the Division One. Fast forward to 2026, they were one game away from making it to the NBL. This was a huge moment for them and the team left everything on the floor. Secondly, Watoto had been swept by Berkley in the 2025 Division Two finals and as thus, they wanted to get revenge.

On the other hand, Berkley, which had won the first 2 games of the series but lost the last 2 had their final chance of redeeming themselves. They had to tune their minds if they were to get a win in this game.

Watoto led the game 14-13 after the first period. In the second, Berkley had an edge and took a 5-point lead at the halftime break. Opio Emmanuel hit a huge 3-point buzzer beater to end the half and put Berkley in control.

Watoto started the third quarter on a high and managed to keep Berkley scoreless for more than 3 minutes. However, when Berkley scored, they made an 8-0 run. Watoto also responded with an -0 run to tie the game. At the end of the quarter, Berkley led 42-41.

It was a horrific start to the fourth quarter for Berkley. Watoto limited them to 0 points in over 4 minutes while they scored 9 points to take an 8-point lead. Opio Emmanuel and Richard Anyunva each scored a very big 3-point shot for Berkley but they ran out of time. Watoto managed to hold on to win the game 54-51 and advance to the NBL.

Top Performers

Victor Aaron Makmot was the star of the day as he registered 20 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. Omara Emmanuel had 15 rebounds, 9 points, 4 assists and 8 steals. Sydney David Walusimbi had 10 points and 9 rebounds.

Opio Emmanuel registered a double-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Richard Anyunva played just 20 minutes and he finished with 11 points and 9 rebounds. Duot Ajang registered a game-high 16 rebounds, 4 blocks and 4 points.

What next?

Watoto has made it back-to-back promotions. In 2024, they got relegated to Division One but 2 years later, they have earned NBL promotional. They will face the KIU Titans in the finals of the 2026 FUBA Division One season.

Berkley swept Watoto in 2025 Division Two finals. In 2026, Watoto got revenge and cut short their hopes of making it to the NBL. They will have to try again in the 2027 season. Additionally, they will play their final game of the season against YMCA.