Gazelles Dominate Kenya in Afrobasket Qualifiers Opener

The Uganda Gazelles began their Afrobasket qualifiers in Cairo with a commanding 78-56 victory over Kenya, setting an early tone for the tournament.

Jane Asinde led the charge with an impressive 24 points and 9 rebounds, proving to be an unstoppable force on the court. She was well supported by Paige Robinson, who contributed 15 points and 6 assists, while Shakirah Nanvubya delivered a well-rounded performance with 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. For Kenya, Mercy Wanyama and Victoria Reynolds put up notable performances, registering 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists, and 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists, respectively.

The Gazelles came into the game seeking redemption after their 2023 qualifier opening loss to Kenya, and they made their intentions clear from the start. They raced to a dominant 23-11 lead in the first quarter, with Uganda’s defensive intensity forcing Kenya into multiple turnovers. Head coach Nick’s emphasis on defensive pressure paid off, allowing Robinson and her teammates to capitalize on their opponents’ mistakes.

By halftime, Uganda had extended their lead to 40-28, controlling most statistical categories, including points, rebounds, assists, and turnovers, apart from free-throw percentage and bench points (14). Their full-court press defense remained effective throughout the game, keeping Kenya on the back foot.

Coach Nick was ecstatic about his defensive display and praised the ladies.

We did what we wanted to do is get defensive stops and get out and ran into transition, we got points which helped set the tone of the game.

With this victory, Uganda gains an early advantage in the five-team round-robin tournament, where only one direct qualification spot is available. The Gazelles now shift their focus to their next challenge against hosts and defending champions Egypt, a crucial encounter set for tomorrow.

Uganda will look to build on this momentum as they aim to secure a place in the Afrobasket tournament.