By 
Uganda’s women’s basketball team, the Gazelles, needed overtime to pull off a breathtaking 73–70 overtime victory over 11-time champions Senegal, becoming the first nation to qualify for the quarterfinals of Women’s AfroBasket 2025.
Following an 88–51 triumph over Guinea in their opener, Uganda entered their showdown with Senegal with confidence. Despite falling behind early to a 9–0 deficit, the Gazelles fought back to close the first period ahead on a buzzer-beating shot by Claire Lamunu (17–16).
A 16–3 run in the second quarter saw Uganda dominate, but Senegal clawed back in the third with a 21–8 run to take a 49–45 lead. Resilience paid off in the fourth quarter, as Paige Robinson drilled a clutch three-pointer to level at 61–61 and send the contest into overtime.
Paige Robinson led Uganda with 19 points, including two pivotal threes, while Captain Jane Asinde delivered a near triple-double with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, dominating from the free‑throw line (12-of-16).
Senegal pulled within range late but could not convert key opportunities against Uganda’s superior perimeter shooting and discipline. It was Senegal coach Otis Hughley Jr.’s first loss in the competition, underlining just how big a statement Uganda made.
Uganda finishes undefeated (2–0), top of Group C, clinching automatic quarterfinal qualification. The result signals Uganda’s rising stature in African women’s basketball as they move into knockout rounds primed for upsets, while Senegal, the West African giants, now face a playoff against Rwanda for a lifeline into the quarterfinals.
Paige Robinson scored 19 points and drilled game-altering threes, while Jane Asinde’s all-around presence included 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. Senegal’s Cierra Dillard (15 points) and Yacine Diop (13 points) struggled when it mattered most.
After the victory, Uganda now turns focus to their quarterfinal matchup, with confidence riding high after knocking off a continental heavyweight. The Gazelles have also become the first team to reach the last eight at Women’s AfroBasket 2025.
Senegal, meanwhile, must regroup quickly to face Rwanda in a do‑or‑die playoff if they hope to stay in championship contention.
Uganda’s Gazelles have shown they belong at the top table in African women’s basketball against all odds and with unwavering resolve, they’ve stormed into the AfroBasket quarterfinals.
