The Uganda Gazelles have been rallied by the National Council of Sports Chairman, Ambrose Tashobya, to give their absolute best at the upcoming FIBA Women’s Afrobasket.
The team was flagged off on Tuesday at the Onomo Hotel, Nakasero to Kigali, Rwanda with their first match less than two days away.
“When I look back, I see a lot of growth for the Gazelles; the future of Uganda’s basketball is partially in your hands; your performance, character, and discipline are key in inspiring the younger generation,” Tashobya said.
“Therefore, go and compete, maximize the opportunity, and give 100%; it doesn’t matter where we finish, just give everything on the floor individually and collectively as a team.”
“We plan on organizing a meeting with Maama (First Lady Janet Museveni) when the team returns from Kigali,” Tashobya revealed.
This is just the third time that Uganda plays at this continental showpiece; the first was in 1997 while the last was eight years ago in 2015.
The team is pitted in Group C along with West African powerhouses Senegal and Mali.
Traveling Team.
Head Coach: Alberto Antuna
Flavia Oketcho (C), Priscilla Abby, Jannon Otto, Evelyn Nakiyingi, Lydia Babirye, Melissa Akullu, Claire Lamunu, Hope Akello, Rita Imanishimwe, Maria Najjuma, Brenda Ekon, Jane Asinde.
The Gazelles will be looking to make history at this year’s tournament.
They have never finished higher than seventh place, but with a strong team and a positive attitude, they have a chance to do something special.
Courtesy Photos
