Uganda’s women’s 3×3 basketball team will contest for Commonwealth Games gold after producing a sensational performance to defeat New Zealand 21-9 in the semifinals on Wednesday in Glasgow.
The emphatic victory guarantees the Gazelles at least a silver medal, ensuring Uganda adds another podium finish to its campaign at the 23rd Commonwealth Games. The East Africans will now face either Australia or Jamaica in the championship game, with the ultimate prize of gold within touching distance.
Facing a New Zealand side that had gone through the tournament unbeaten, Uganda rose to the occasion with confidence and authority. Melissa Akullu, Jane Asinde, Jamila Nansikombi and Perus Nyamwenge combined brilliantly on both ends of the court, delivering a composed and clinical display to end the Tall Ferns’ impressive run.
The Gazelles established control from the outset through disciplined defending. Their relentless pressure, sharp anticipation and seamless communication denied New Zealand any opportunity to settle, forcing repeated errors and allowing Uganda to dictate the tempo of the contest.
After laying the foundation defensively, Uganda showcased its attacking quality. Asinde and Akullu repeatedly capitalized in the paint with powerful finishes, while Nansikombi and Nyamwenge added pace, creativity and accurate perimeter shooting to keep the scoreboard moving.
With the contest entering its closing stages, the Gazelles remained firmly in command. They continued to play with intensity and composure, refusing to allow New Zealand back into the game before sealing a convincing 21-9 triumph.
The result not only books Uganda a place in the Commonwealth Games final but also confirms the nation’s second medal of Glasgow 2026. It is another landmark achievement for the Gazelles, whose remarkable tournament run has highlighted the rapid growth of Ugandan basketball on the international stage.
One final challenge now separates the Gazelles from history. A victory in the final would see Uganda crowned Commonwealth Games champions, completing a memorable campaign with the country’s first-ever gold medal in women’s 3×3 basketball.
Discover more from Sbk Sports Mail | Latest Sports News, Insights, and Features from Uganda, East Africa & Around the World
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
AROUND THE SPORTING WORLD ⤵️
- Dominant Gazelles March into Commonwealth Games Final, Secure Uganda Another Medal
The result not only books Uganda a place in the Commonwealth Games final but also confirms the nation's second medal of Glasgow 2026. - 3×3 Basketball: Uganda Maintains Perfect Commonwealth Record with Fiji Rout
With four victories from four outings, Uganda has already exceeded many expectations and established itself as one of the form teams at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. - Niyoyita Misses Out on Medal Contention in Glasgow 2026 Weightlifting
The African Games medallist, who won bronze in Accra, Ghana, two years ago, entered the competition carrying Uganda's hopes in the lightweight division. - Uganda’s Swimmers Ready for Another Test as Day Three Action Continues at Commonwealth Games
After competing against some of the world’s most established swimming nations and producing several encouraging results, the Ugandan swimmers are back in action determined to continue their impressive showing on the Commonwealth stage. - The Bombers Target Progress as Uganda’s Boxing Campaign Continues on Day Three in Glasgow
After a promising opening two days that produced victories, valuable lessons and strong individual performances, Uganda’s fighters are focused on keeping the country’s medal hopes alive in the ring.
