The United Basketball Generation (UGB) bounced back from their opening-game loss to Kepler in the 2025 Rwanda Basketball League (RBL) with a statement victory over the powerhouse Patriots.
Steven Hagumintwari’s game-high 23 points were not enough to help the Patriots overcome UGB’s charge in Friday night’s game at Lycée de Kigali.
Yves Murenzi’s side rallied from a nine-point deficit in the first quarter (12-21) to dominate the remaining three quarters (21-18, 19-15, and 21-15), securing a much-needed victory that revitalized their campaign after the 67-71 loss to Kepler.
Central African Republic international Steven-Emile Perriere, the new team captain following Aganze Bazihima’s departure to REG, played a crucial role for coach Gael’s team on both ends of the floor.
Perriere and newcomer Mouhamed Doumbia contributed 39 points, making up 53.4% of the team’s total, while making significant contributions defensively as well.
Perriere recorded 17 points, 19 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 39 minutes of play while Doumbia led the team with 22 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, and 5 steals in 37 minutes.
For the Patriots, Steven Hagumintwari’s 23-point effort was the highlight of the game, which also marked a baptism of fire for new head coach Sunny Munyandamutsa.
Munyandamutsa, in his debut season as head coach, suffered his first loss after leading the Patriots to an 89-64 win over Azomco in their opener.
Both UGB and the Patriots now hold a 1-1 record and will face REG and Tigers, respectively, on February 7.
