Uganda’s Gazelles Advance to Quarterfinals with Historic Victory Over Senegal in Women’s AfroBasket
This hard-fought win, coming hot on the heels of their dominant 88-51 performance against Guinea, marks Uganda’s second straight victory in Group A and cements their position at the top with four points. The result also means the Gazelles become the first team to qualify directly for the quarterfinal stage, an achievement that underlines the growth of Ugandan women’s basketball on the continental stage.
The Uganda Women’s National Basketball Team, the Gazelles, have made history at the ongoing 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament in Ivory Coast, by securing a spot in the quarterfinals after a thrilling 73-70 overtime victory over Senegal on Monday evening.
This hard-fought win, coming hot on the heels of their dominant 88-51 performance against Guinea, marks Uganda’s second straight victory in Group A and cements their position at the top with four points. The result also means the Gazelles become the first team to qualify directly for the quarterfinal stage, an achievement that underlines the growth of Ugandan women’s basketball on the continental stage.
Despite a shaky start that saw the Gazelles fall behind by eight points early in the opening quarter, Head Coach Nicholas Natuhereza swiftly called a timeout, calming his side and allowing them to regroup. The result was immediate.
Veteran forward Claire Lamunu sank a clutch three-point shot to shift the momentum, and Uganda closed the first quarter with a slender 17-16 lead. Building on that momentum, the Gazelles intensified their defensive pressure and found their offensive rhythm, outscoring Senegal 20-12 in the second quarter to enter halftime with a comfortable 37-28 advantage.
However, Senegal returned from the break with renewed energy. Uganda struggled to find points in the third quarter, managing only eight, while Senegal surged back to take a 49-45 lead heading into the final frame.
With the game hanging in the balance, Paige Robinson
emerged as the hero in the fourth quarter. She nailed a crucial three-pointer in the dying seconds to tie the game at 61-61, sending it to overtime.
In overtime, the Gazelles maintained their composure, showing grit and determination. Robinson, alongside Jane Asinde, Hope Akello, and Lamunu, executed plays with precision, ultimately outscoring Senegal by three to clinch a memorable 73-70 victory.
The Gazelles’ triumph was powered by standout performances from key players:
Paige Robinson: 19 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists
Jane Asinde: 18 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists
Hope Akello: 15 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist
Claire Lamunu: 10 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
For Senegal, only Cierra Dillard (15 points) and Yacine Diop (10 points) reached double figures, highlighting Uganda’s effective defensive strategy against their key threats.
This victory not only secures Uganda a place in the quarterfinals but also signals a turning point in the nation’s basketball journey. The Gazelles spirited performances have already captured the imagination of fans across the continent.
Coach Natuhereza praised his players' resilience:
"This was a test of character. The girls believed in each other, trusted the game plan, and fought with heart. We’re proud of how far we've come, but the journey isn’t over yet."
With the quarterfinals on the horizon, Uganda will now enjoy a rest day before facing their next opponents. With confidence sky-high and momentum firmly on their side, the Gazelles are poised to make even more history this tournament.
Uganda’s Group A Results So Far:
Uganda 88-51 Guinea
Uganda 73-70 Senegal (OT)
The nation watches in pride as the Gazelles continue their dream run in AfroBasket 2025. All eyes will now turn to the quarterfinals, where Uganda aims to write another golden chapter in their basketball story.
