U18 Afrobasket: Junior Gazelles Fall to Egypt in Zone V Derby

Thursday, September 5
*Uganda 53-76 Egypt

Uganda women’s U18 National Basketball team, the Junior Gazelles, suffered a tough 53-76 defeat against Egypt in their second match of the 2024 FIBA U18 Afrobasket, currently taking place in South Africa.

After a promising start, the Junior Gazelles were undone by a disastrous second quarter, which they lost 7-23.

Despite a spirited effort in the final quarter, winning it 15-12, the damage was already done, and Uganda could not recover as Egypt proved too good.

Modesta Anyango led the scoring for Uganda with 15 points, while Shiphrah Kiranda contributed a strong double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Mia Belinda Alaba added 8 points to the effort.

For Egypt, Power Forward Leila Elsanadily powered her team to victory with a double-double, registering 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. Khadiga Abouelghait also put in a strong performance, posting 11 points and 12 rebounds as Egypt maintained their unbeaten record.

The loss leaves Uganda with work to do, as Egypt’s win puts them at the top of Group C.

At one stage, Uganda trailed by 33 points, struggling to take advantage of Egypt’s 35 turnovers and shooting just 15% from beyond the arc. The Junior Gazelles were also out-rebounded 49-72 in the game.

This, was a meeting between two Zone V nations, but Egypt, last edition’s runners up, had their quality shine through.

After a victory over Zimbabwe in their opening game, Uganda must beat Nigeria on Sunday to confirm an automatic quarterfinal spot.

Nigeria beat Zimbabwe 107-30 to move second in the group.

It’s strong to note that the teams placed first and second in each group and the two (2) best third-placed teams in the Group Phase will qualify for the Final Phase.

The remaining four (4) teams shall play the classification from 9th to 12th place.

The two best teams (read finalists) will qualify for the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup.

Note: Junior Silverbacks (Boys) who lost their opener 73-89 to Angola, face Egypt on Saturday in their second group game.