KIU Rangers Clinch NBL Playoff Berth

By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU, Main Campus—KIU Rangers secured a place in the 2026 National Basketball League playoffs after edging Magic Stormers 64-61 in their final regular-season game Sunday at YMCA.

Sharon Kirabo once again led the Rangers' charge, posting a game-high 28 points and 10 rebounds to record a double-double. The veteran center also dished out five assists to pace the team.

Team captain Ines Kanyamuneza added 12 points, while Cinderella Anena contributed nine points in the victory.

The Rangers played much of the game without head coach Julius Lutwama, who was ejected early in the second quarter after being cited for unsportsmanlike conduct. 

Officials sent Lutwama off approximately six minutes into the period after he kicked a bottle on the sideline while expressing frustration over his team's offensive struggles.

The ejection marked Lutwama's second consecutive dismissal. He was also sent off during KIU's previous game against the JT Lady Jaguars, along with a member of his technical bench.

Despite a challenging campaign, the Rangers managed to secure a postseason berth. 
The 2026 season has been one of transition for the club, which moved away from a core of experienced professionals and relied heavily on student-athletes.

KIU finished the regular season seventh in the standings with a 10-12 record and is expected to face the second-seeded UCU Lady Canons in the quarterfinals.