The Namuwongo Blazers reignited their National Basketball League title ambitions with a statement 71-64 victory over defending champions City Oilers on Friday night at the Lugogo Indoor Arena.

In a pulsating contest that showcased their growing maturity and resilience, the Blazers flipped the script on the reigning kings to level the best-of-five Finals series at 2-2 setting up a thrilling winner-takes-all showdown.

Having stumbled in the opening two games, Namuwongo refused to fade away. From the tip-off, they played with hunger and conviction, determined to keep their championship dreams alive. Veteran guard Tonny Drileba set the tone early with a booming three-pointer that electrified the Blazers’ faithful and signaled their intent.

Although the Oilers edged the first quarter 18-14 and carried a slender 26-24 halftime lead, the Blazers’ halftime adjustments proved decisive. Their third-quarter defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and converting transition chances to surge ahead 47-42 heading into the final frame.

The Oilers, powered by Chad Bowie (21 points) and Kurt Curry (20 points), fought to the end, but the Blazers’ composure in the clutch made the difference. Drileba (15 points) led by example, while Ivan Muhwezi (11) and Joel Lukoji (10) chipped in vital buckets to seal the win.

From early struggles to a series comeback, the Blazers have shown grit, balance, and belief qualities of a team ready to challenge the Oilers’ long-standing dominance. All roads now lead to the decisive Game Five, where history beckons for Namuwongo.