UCU is the team to beat as hoops league tips off

2026-02-05 - 03:39

The UCU Lady Canons emerged as the most improved team in the second round of last season’s National Basketball League (NBL) women’s top-flight campaign. Apart from a surprise defeat to the KIU Rangers — widely blamed on complacency — they looked the strongest side heading into the playoffs. Sport, however, rarely follows script. Despite their form, UCU fell 3–2 in a gripping best-of-five semi-final series against the experienced JKL Lady Dolphins. Even so, as the 2026 season tips off this Friday, February 6, the Lady Canons appear well positioned to mount a serious title charge and could be favourites to secure a record-extending ninth championship. Forward Zoe Atek, who featured in her debut NBL season last year, admitted the disappointment of falling short of the finals still lingers. “It’s true we struggled in the first round, but in the second round we played very good basketball,” Atek said. “We were confident we could win the title, although we knew JKL were a formidable side. Their experience showed in the end.” Atek believes that painful exit has become a valuable learning experience. Heading into 2026, she says the team returns stronger and with greater belief in its ability. While JKL’s craft — particularly Hope Akello’s dominance in