The Uganda Senior Women’s Basketball Team, the Gazelles, suffered an agonizing 80-66 defeat to continental powerhouse Mali in their first game of the 2023 FIBA Afrobasket.
The Gazelles made a bright start to the game, leading the opening quarter 19-16, despite a number of backcourt turnovers.
Jannon Otto shoots for the Gazzelles against Mali
However, the turnovers came back to bite them in the second quarter, as Mali won it 21-14 to go down 33-37 at halftime.
Mali continued their strong play in the third quarter, winning it 21-16 to take a 58-49 lead into the final period.
Ekon Brenda
Uganda fought hard in the fourth quarter, but they could not overcome the deficit, eventually falling by 14 points.
Despite the loss, there were some bright spots for the Gazelles. Jannon Otto led the team with 19 points, while Brenda Ekon added 12 points and Claire Lamunu chipped in with 10 points.
Gazelles Captain Flavia Oketcho
Uganda will look to bounce back on Saturday when they face another West African giant, Senegal.
Courtesy Photos
