Uganda’s captain Jane Asinde could barely contain her emotions after leading the Gazelles to a historic 74-63 win over Egypt in the Women’s AfroBasket Zone Five Qualifiers final, securing their place at the 2025 tournament in Abidjan.
Asinde, who was named tournament MVP, delivered a stellar performance, finishing with 19 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks.
The victory marked a moment of redemption for Uganda, who had fallen to Egypt in both the 2023 final and the group stage of this year’s qualifiers. Asinde admitted that the earlier loss in the tournament helped sharpen the team’s focus for the decisive final.
“I can’t explain the joy of being the captain and leading this team into victory. I am overwhelmed and grateful for the work we have put in. I am grateful that we lost in the group phase match as we were able to correct our mistakes and come back ready to win it all,” she said.
Uganda’s dominance on the boards and defensive intensity proved decisive, as they out-rebounded Egypt 53-34 and restricted their usually efficient three-point shooting to just 4-of-29.
The Gazelles’ second-quarter surge, where they held Egypt to just five points in the final seven minutes, was the turning point in the game.
For Asinde, the win was more than just a personal achievement—it was a defining moment for Uganda’s women’s basketball.
With their place at the 2025 AfroBasket secured, the team will now shift focus to making an impact on the continental stage.
Meanwhile, Egypt’s chances of a seventh consecutive appearance will depend on securing a wild card entry.
