Uganda’s Gazelles pulled off a dramatic 73-70 upset against continental heavyweights Senegal to book their spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Cote d’Ivoire.
In a thriller played at the Palais des Sports Treichville Arena, the Gazelles held their nerve in overtime to edge out the 11-time champions once again proving that they’re no longer to be seen as underdogs on the African stage.
Paige Robinson rose to the occasion with a team-high 19 points, while captain Jane Asinde chipped in with 18. Veteran forward Hope Akello added 15 points and center Claire Lamunu contributed 10, rounding out a solid team effort.
Uganda’s path to victory was anything but smooth. They got off to a sluggish start, conceding the first nine points of the game. But the tide began to turn as they fought back to narrowly lead 17-16 at the end of the first quarter.
The Gazelles took full control in the second period, going into halftime with a nine-point cushion at 37-28. However, the momentum swung in Senegal’s favor in the third quarter, with Uganda falling behind 49-45.
In a tense fourth quarter, Senegal appeared to be closing in on victory, but Robinson’s clutch shot tied the game at 61-61 and sent it into overtime. In the extra period, Uganda held firm, eventually securing a statement win that sealed their place in the last eight.
The victory rekindled memories of the Gazelles’ last meeting with Senegal, when they edged them 85-83 in a thrilling contest during the 2023 AfroBasket in Kigali, Rwanda.
It also marked Uganda’s second win of the tournament, following their dominant 88-51 opener against Guinea, where Melissa Akullu starred with 26 points and 7 rebounds, setting the tone for Uganda’s campaign.
As the knockout rounds approach, the Gazelles have not only turned heads but firmly announced themselves as a force to reckon with.
