Uganda’s women’s basketball team, the Gazelles, continued their dominant form at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, dismantling Guinea 88-51 in their second Group C game to remain unbeaten.
The reigning Zone 5 champions made light work of Guinea, who now fall to 0-2 in the tournament. This was the third AfroBasket meeting between the two nations, with Uganda now leading the head-to-head 2-1. The result marks a steady rise for Uganda, who are looking to build on their historic seventh-place finish in 2023 — their best since debuting in 1997.
Guinea started brightly with back-to-back three-pointers from Batouly Camara and Fatoumata Jallow to take early leads of 6-2 and 9-4. But Uganda quickly regrouped, reclaiming the lead at 12-11 and finishing the first quarter ahead at 24-19.
Despite Guinea clawing back to 31-26 in the second quarter, Uganda responded with a 14-5 run to close the half, then erupted with a devastating 22-0 burst to open the third quarter, effectively sealing the game.
Melissa Akullu shines
While Zone 5 MVP Jane Asinde had a strong outing with 15 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds, it was Portugal-based forward Melissa Akullu who stole the spotlight. Akullu posted a game-high 26 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead Uganda to victory.
“Our coaching staff had prepared us well, and we knew this was a must-win,” said Akullu. “Senegal is up next and we have to bring a new mindset. If we focus on the little things and stick to the game plan, we believe we can compete.”
Dominance in numbers
Uganda overwhelmed Guinea in nearly every statistical category — outscoring them 46-12 in the paint, 48-10 off turnovers, and 28-3 on fast breaks. Their bench also delivered, contributing 32 points to Guinea’s 3.
The victory places Uganda in prime position to qualify automatically for the quarterfinals should they overcome Senegal in their final group match on Monday — a team they famously upset in 2023.
Guinea’s uphill battle
With two losses, Guinea now face a do-or-die situation in the Classification Round, which offers a final shot at the quarterfinals.
The 2025 Women’s AfroBasket continues in Abidjan until August 3, with the top teams from each group advancing to the knockout stages.
