Uganda’s Magic Stormers put up a spirited fight but fell 55–68 to Fox Basketball Club in their second outing at the ongoing FIBA Women’s Basketball League Africa Zone 5 Qualifiers on Monday evening at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.
It was a much-improved showing from the Ugandan debutants, who had earlier conceded a walkover in what was supposed to be their maiden game against Burundi’s Gladiators.
Despite their renewed energy, the Tanzanian side proved too clinical on the night.
Playing without captain and star forward Hope Akello, the Stormers leaned on Christine Namyalo, who led with 18 points.
Sylvia Nakituuka and Joy Mupalia added 10 points each, while Angella Auma chipped in with 9, showing the team’s depth and fighting spirit.
Fox, however, were composed and efficient. Merycyana Mashauri starred with 18 points and dominated inside the paint, while Noela Renatus and Uganda’s own Evelyn Nakiyingi added 12 and 11 points respectively to secure the win.
After falling behind early, the Stormers battled back in the middle quarters, winning the second 16–14.
Namyalo’s sharp shooting and Mupalia’s hustle kept them close, but turnovers and missed chances in the third quarter turned the tide.
Nakiyingi punished her compatriots with a driving layup and free throw, followed by Renatus’s finish to push Fox ahead 52–48.
In the final stretch, Mashauri’s dominance under the rim sealed the victory as Fox pulled away decisively.
Though still searching for their first win, the Magic Stormers showed promise.
With Akello’s expected return, the Ugandan side will look to build on this performance and make a stronger push in their remaining fixtures against Group KPA and APR.
