By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU Rangers beat Angels 81-57 in their first game of the 2023 NBL season played at the MTN Arena in Lugogo on Wednesday evening.

The Ranger's fascinating free-flowing display could not be matched by the Angels who were outrightly dominated from start to finish.

KIU Rangers also looked fresh and hungry all game long with Racheal Nanyonga, Purity Lamar's, Mary Amaniyo, Sharon Kirabo and Diana Letaru combining to condemn Angels on a night, the new girls would have wished to dominate.

"It was a nice leap from the women’s day tournament. The girls graced the opening game occasion to their fullest and respected their opponent," Roger Serunyigo, KIU Rangers head coach said in a post-game interview.

Serunyigo admitted that his girls had a good scoring day, one factor, the Angels could not handle.

"Angels tend to be so stubborn but the Rangers were ready. The 81-57 score difference can’t be underestimated. It was a good scoring day most especially for Moses Mary Amaniyo, Diana Letaru, Racheal Nanyonga, and Sharon Kirabo," he said.

Mary Moses Amaniyo was the star of the game, scoring 16 points, six rebounds and two assists. Sharon Kirabo was also in a great mood and was able to put forward 14 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

Diana Letaru was the other player to impress in the game in which she proved her potential with 14 points, three rebounds and four assists.

"I particularly enjoyed the performances of Purity Lamara and Racheal Nanyonga. Diana was exceptional too but I know she can do better. She’s a calm player but needs to command her troops more," Serunyigo acknowledged.

"She’s been a good signing and hopefully she will maintain an excellent spell at the Rangers."

 KIU Rangers was truly interesting to watch on Wednesday and they should have scored more or at least met the fan's call for 100 points. According to Coach Roger Serunyigo, some areas still need attention.

"We definitely have a lot of areas to work on, quicker transition, improving on our team execution defensively and offensively and also more team chemistry," he said.

KIU Ranger's next game is on the first day of April against newly promoted Miracle Eaglets. The game will be played in the afternoon at the YMCA court in Wandegeya.