Uganda’s national women’s basketball team, the Gazelles, have secured their place at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket after defeating Egypt 74-63 in the Zone V Qualifiers final at the Hassan Mostafa Arena in Cairo.
The victory not only grants Uganda a direct ticket to the continental tournament in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, but also serves as sweet revenge against the Pharaohs, who had denied them direct qualification in the 2023 edition.
It will be Uganda’s fourth appearance at the Women’s AfroBasket, having previously competed in 1997, 2015, and 2023.
Dominant Final Display in Cairo
Uganda showcased resilience and tactical discipline throughout the contest.
Despite trailing Egypt 18-19 after the first quarter, the Gazelles took control in the second, heading into halftime with a commanding 40-29 lead.
The gap widened further in the third quarter, where Uganda stretched their advantage to 61-45 before sealing the win at 74-63.
Captain Jane Asinde led from the front, delivering a game-high 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Paige Robinson also impressed, contributing 16 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Egypt’s standout player Raneem Elgedawy matched Asinde’s 19-point tally along with 11 rebounds.
Uganda’s Road to Qualification
The Gazelles entered the final with a 3-1 record in the tournament, their only defeat coming against Egypt in the group stages (62-65).
However, victories over Kenya, South Sudan, and Burundi; a dominant 66-30 win over them, proved crucial in their campaign.
The triumph in Cairo marks a significant milestone for Uganda, who now become the seventh team to qualify for the AfroBasket.
They join hosts Ivory Coast, defending champions Nigeria, 2023 finalists Senegal, semi-finalists Rwanda and Mali, and Zone IV winners Cameroon.
Breaking Egypt’s Hold
Historically, Egypt had dominated their head-to-head encounters, winning seven of the previous nine meetings.
They also won the 2023 Zone V final in Kampala (74-65) to qualify for the AfroBasket, leaving Uganda to rely on a wild card entry.
This time, however, the Gazelles turned the tables, ensuring Egypt must now seek alternative qualification routes.
Looking Ahead to Abidjan
Uganda’s last AfroBasket appearance in 2023 saw them finish seventh, their best placement to date.
With Asinde, Robinson, and a strengthened squad under coach Nicholas Natuhereza, the Gazelles will now aim for an even stronger campaign in Abidjan, scheduled for July 25 to August 3.
