City Oilers moved within one win of the National Basketball League title after beating Nam Blazers 78-73 in Game Five of the Finals at Lugogo on Sunday.
The victory gives the Oilers a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, meaning they will be crowned champions if they win Game Six on Wednesday.
Despite taking the first quarter 23-19, the Blazers struggled thereafter as the Oilers played with greater assurance and composure.
The game remained closely contested, with the Oilers holding a one-point lead at halftime. The scores were tied at 58-58 heading into the final quarter, before the Blazers opened up a five-point lead midway through the fourth.
After a series of exchanges, Patrick Rembert converted a layup to put the Oilers ahead 74-73 with under two minutes remaining. He then sank four free throws to give his side enough cushion to close out the game.
Rembert finished with a game-high 28 points, while Joel Lukoji and Titus Lual added 14 and 10 points, respectively.
For the Blazers, Arthur Wanyoto scored 15 points, while Anthony Chuckwurah posted a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Nam Blazers got 42 points from their bench but struggled from beyond the arc, making just five of 24 three-point attempts. They did, however, outrebound the Oilers 53-40.
The Oilers will now play for the championship on Wednesday, while the Blazers must win Game Six to force a decisive Game Seven.
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