Gazelles captain Jane Asinde delivered a masterclass performance as Uganda opened their 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Zone V Qualifiers campaign with a resounding 78-56 victory over Kenya at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Cairo, Egypt on Monday.
The forward, who plies her trade in China with Henan Phoenix, was the driving force behind Uganda’s dominant display, registering a game-high 24 points and nine rebounds.
Asinde’s relentless energy on both ends of the floor set the tone for the Gazelles, who took control early and never relented.
Right from the tip-off, Asinde’s presence was felt as she powered Uganda to a 23-11 lead in the first quarter, outmuscling Kenya in the paint and converting high-percentage shots.
Her ability to secure second-chance opportunities and anchor the defense kept Kenya at bay, with the East African rivals struggling to match her intensity.
By halftime, Uganda had extended their lead to 40-28, with Asinde continuing to dominate inside while orchestrating the team’s offense.
Even when Kenya attempted a third-quarter fightback, cutting into the lead briefly, Asinde responded with key baskets and defensive stops that restored Uganda’s control.
Her leadership was evident in the fourth quarter as the Gazelles pushed their advantage to as many as 28 points before Kenya attempted a late surge.
With solid contributions from teammates Paige Robinson (15 points) and Shakira Nanvubya (14 points), Uganda sealed a statement win in their opening game.
For Kenya, Victoria Reynolds (13 points) and Mercy Wanyama (12 points) tried to keep their side in contention, but Asinde’s brilliance proved too much to handle.
With this emphatic victory, Uganda takes an early advantage in the five-team round-robin tournament, where only one direct qualification spot for the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket in Ivory Coast is at stake.
The Gazelles will now shift focus to their next clash against hosts and reigning zone champions Egypt, who outclassed Burundi 102-40 on opening day.
The clash will kick-off tonight at 7 pm EAT.
