Coach Nick replaces Perus Nyamwenge with Namanja as Gazelles complete Day 4 training.

The Uganda Women’s National Basketball Team, the Gazelles, is ramping up preparations for the FIBA Africa Zone V Qualifiers, scheduled to take place from February 3–8 in Cairo, Egypt. Newly appointed head coach Nick Natuhereza expressed optimism about the team’s offensive strategies after concluding his fourth training session.

“This group has tremendous potential on offense,” Coach Nick noted. “We’re building on their strengths while focusing on cohesion and efficiency to maximize our scoring opportunities.”

The Zone V Qualifiers are critical for the Gazelles, as they aim to secure a coveted spot at the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket. With the competition drawing near, Coach Nick has already started fine-tuning team dynamics and strategies to ensure a strong showing in Cairo.

One notable change in the squad involves the replacement of Perus Nyamwenge with Buja Namanja. Nyamwenge, a key member of the team, had to step aside due to work commitments that clashed with the intensive training schedule. Her absence is a significant adjustment, but Coach Nick expressed confidence in Namanja, who he described as “a young talent with great potential and an impressive perimeter shooting ability.”

The Gazelles’ training sessions have centered on perfecting offensive plays, enhancing perimeter shooting, and developing defensive resilience. With players stepping up to fill key roles and a renewed sense of purpose under Coach Nick’s leadership, the team is poised to make a strong bid for qualification.

As Uganda’s representatives, the Gazelles carry the hopes of a basketball-loving nation. The upcoming Zone V Qualifiers will not only test their skills but also their ability to work as a cohesive unit under the guidance of their new coach. The countdown to February 3 has begun, and all eyes are on the Gazelles as they prepare for this pivotal moment.