By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU Main Campus- KIU Rangers returned to winning ways with a dominant 79-41 win over the newly promoted YMCA Lady Hamsters on Sunday morning at the YMCA court in Wandegeya.

KIU Rangers who began the 2024 National Basketball League season with a three-game winning streak were checked by the poignant KCCA leopards on Friday. They needed Sunday's win to quickly recover from Friday's disappointment.

Julius Lutwama's Rangers were resolute from the word go as they led 37-12 at halftime before stretching their dominance to lead by 38 points and win 79-41 at full time.

"It's always exciting to win the way we did today. We absolutely needed this reaction, especially after a bad performance on Friday, "KIU Rangers head Coach Lutwama remarked.

"I want to give the Rangers credit for working as a team, which is what makes us unique. Having more than two players score in double digits is sufficient evidence of the teamwork I am discussing," he added.

Three KIU Rangers players scored in double figures led by Mary Moses Amaniyo with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and two assists while team captain Ines Kanyamuneza posted 16 points, five rebounds, and seven assists.

 Sharon Kirabo was the game's most efficient player as she added 11 points, 16 rebounds and three assists. Her coach was full of praises for her at the end of the game.

"We are very excited for Amaniyo, but having her score in double figures is something we are constantly working on. For Sharon Kirabo, it's more exhilarating, especially after witnessing her record those unbelievable rebounds," Lutwama stated.

 Kirabo was impressed with her performance, especially after being humiliated by KCCA Leopards two days before.

"It's good to return to winning ways. Our goal as Rangers is to get better every day and that's what we did today, especially after a disappointing game against KCCA Leopards," she said.

"I am very excited with my performance today especially when it comes to rebounding. I rarely reach 16 rebounds, so it's quite exciting for me. I have to commend my teammates for the good fight," she added.

KIU Rangers returns to action on Saturday, February 24th against UPDF lady Tomahawks, a game that will be played at UCU court in Mukono.