Gazelles Set to Script History at 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

A Historic Milestone for Ugandan Basketball

Uganda’s women’s 3×3 basketball team, the Gazelles, are preparing to embark on one of the most significant chapters in the nation’s sporting history after officially qualifying for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Their qualification marks Uganda’s first-ever appearance in the women’s 3×3 basketball competition at the prestigious multi-sport event, underlining the remarkable rise of the country’s basketball programme on the international stage. The achievement is a reward for years of investment, determination, and consistent progress, placing Uganda among the select nations that will compete for Commonwealth honours in one of basketball’s fastest-growing disciplines.

The Reward for Years of Progress

The Gazelles’ qualification is the culmination of sustained development and impressive performances in recent international competitions, where the team has steadily earned recognition for its resilience and competitive spirit. Over the past few years, Uganda has continued to strengthen its presence in women’s basketball through improved player development, increased international exposure, and consistent participation in elite tournaments.

Securing a place at the Commonwealth Games is therefore not merely another qualification, but a powerful statement that Ugandan women’s basketball has reached a new level of maturity and is ready to compete with some of the Commonwealth’s most established basketball nations.

A Compact Squad Built for the Demands of 3×3 Basketball

Unlike the traditional five-a-side game, 3×3 basketball demands exceptional endurance, speed, tactical intelligence, and seamless teamwork, with every player expected to contribute in all areas of the game. Uganda travel to Glasgow with a carefully selected four-player squad that possesses the technical ability, athleticism, and versatility required to thrive in such a demanding format.

The players have developed strong chemistry through competing together in various international competitions, giving the Gazelles confidence that they can match the intensity and physical demands of the tournament while maintaining their distinctive style of play.

Jane Asinde Brings Experience and Leadership

Jane Asinde will once again play a central role in Uganda’s ambitions, bringing invaluable experience and a proven record of excellence at both club and international level. Recognised as one of the country’s finest basketball players, Asinde has consistently demonstrated her ability to influence matches through her scoring, rebounding, defensive awareness, and calmness under pressure.

Beyond her individual brilliance, she provides the maturity and leadership that will be essential as Uganda navigates the challenges of competing on one of the biggest sporting stages in the Commonwealth for the very first time.

A Talented Supporting Cast Ready to Deliver

Joining Asinde in the squad are Perus Nyamwenge, Jamila Nansikombi, and Melissa Akullu, three accomplished players whose different qualities give Uganda a well-balanced and competitive unit. Nyamwenge’s versatility enables her to impact the game at both ends of the court, while Nansikombi’s pace, agility, and creativity make her a constant attacking threat capable of unlocking stubborn defences.

Akullu adds strength, physicality, and defensive stability around the basket, ensuring the Gazelles possess the balance and depth needed to compete against experienced opponents from across the Commonwealth.

Natuheereza Tasked with Guiding the Gazelles

On the technical bench, Head Coach Nicholas Natuheereza will shoulder the responsibility of guiding Uganda through what promises to be an intensely competitive tournament. Over the years, he has played a vital role in shaping the Gazelles into a disciplined and tactically organised team capable of competing against elite opposition.

His emphasis on teamwork, defensive discipline, and quick ball movement has become a defining characteristic of the national side, and his ability to make crucial tactical adjustments will be instrumental as Uganda seeks to make an immediate impact during its Commonwealth Games debut.

International Exposure Strengthens Preparations

The Gazelles head to Glasgow with valuable momentum after recently competing at the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series Stop in Poitiers, France, where they measured themselves against some of the world’s strongest teams.

The tournament offered Uganda an invaluable opportunity to gain first-hand experience against elite international opposition, exposing the players to the speed, physicality, and tactical demands that define top-level 3×3 basketball. Every game served as an important learning experience, allowing the coaching staff to identify areas for improvement while reinforcing the team’s strengths ahead of another prestigious assignment.

Confidence Growing Ahead of Glasgow

Competing regularly against world-class opposition has significantly boosted the confidence and belief within the Ugandan camp. The players have demonstrated steady improvement with every international outing, showing greater composure, stronger decision-making, and improved teamwork under pressure.

Those experiences have convinced the Gazelles that they possess the quality and determination to compete against more established basketball nations, giving them every reason to approach the Commonwealth Games with optimism rather than intimidation.

More Than Just a Tournament

For Uganda, participation in the Commonwealth Games represents far more than simply competing for medals. The Gazelles will carry the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to see its basketball programme continue its upward trajectory on the global stage.

Their qualification serves as a powerful source of inspiration for thousands of young girls across Uganda, demonstrating that dedication, discipline, and perseverance can open doors to the highest levels of international sport. Their journey also highlights the significant progress that women’s basketball has made within the country over the past decade.

Determined to Leave a Lasting Legacy

As the countdown to the Commonwealth Games continues, excitement is steadily building among basketball fans across Uganda, who will eagerly follow every moment of the Gazelles’ historic campaign. Armed with a talented squad, experienced leadership, and invaluable international exposure, the team will arrive in Glasgow determined not merely to participate but to compete with courage, ambition, and belief.

While qualifying for the Games has already secured the Gazelles a place in Uganda’s sporting history, the players will be aiming to leave an even greater legacy by producing memorable performances that further elevate the country’s reputation in international 3×3 basketball.