Andrew Tendo vows City Oilers overhaul after NBL finals defeats

City Oilers have suffered their second consecutive National Basketball League finals defeat, leaving coach Andrew Tendo promising changes. The setback came in a deciding Game Seven, where defensive lapses and injuries again stood between the Ugandan champions and another title.

Tendo identified problems inside the paint as a major factor in the defeat. City Oilers allowed easy baskets close to the rim and could not maintain the defensive standard required when the final was decided. Their attempts to recover came too late to change the outcome.

The coach also pointed to the effect of injuries during a demanding campaign. Important players were unavailable at key stages of the postseason, leaving the team to manage repeated fitness problems while trying to defend its position at the top of the NBL.

Despite the disappointment, Tendo praised the squad’s commitment. He said the players continued to give their best through the difficulties, even though their effort was not enough to prevent a second successive loss in the championship series.

The latest defeat represents a sharp change for a City Oilers team with 10 NBL titles. Back-to-back finals losses have denied the franchise another championship and increased the pressure to address weaknesses exposed during the postseason.

Tendo now intends to use the setback as the starting point for a rebuild. His plans include reviewing the team, improving its defensive structure and ensuring the squad returns in better health before the next campaign. The coach said the Oilers must return to the drawing board and make the adjustments needed to regain their winning position in Ugandan basketball.