Uganda stormed past Guinea 88–51 in their AfroBasket Women 2025 opener. Melissa Akullu led the way with 26 points, powering the Gazelles to a dominant win as they now prepare for a crucial Group C clash with Senegal.
Last Updated on
July 27, 2025
Appearing in only their fourth AfroBasket tournament, the Gazelles wasted no time asserting themselves. Though Guinea, a tournament regular, opened brightly—hitting back-to-back threes from Batouly Camara and Fatoumata Jallow to take a 6–2 lead after Peru Nyamwenge’s opening layup—Uganda quickly settled into rhythm.
By midway through the opening quarter, the Gazelles had regained control. Melissa Akullu added four crucial points, while Jane Asinde, Claire Lamunu, and Jamila Nansikombi contributed to a strong team effort that closed the first period with Uganda leading 24–19.
Uganda Take Full Control
The second quarter was a showcase of Uganda’s growing confidence and depth. The Gazelles extended their lead to 29–19, and though Guinea trimmed it briefly to 31–26, Uganda answered with a decisive 14–5 run to close the half. Contributions came from all over: Akullu added six points, Paige Robinson chipped in with five, and Sharon Kirabo nailed a late three-pointer to push the lead to 45–31 at halftime.
What came next was a statement. Uganda launched into the third quarter with a devastating 22–0 run in just six minutes, smothering Guinea on both ends of the court. By the end of the quarter, the scoreboard read 73–43—a clear display of dominance and intent. Uganda sealed the game in the fourth with focused execution, completing a commanding 88–51 victory.
Melissa Akullu Shines Bright in Abidjan
If there was any doubt about who the star of the day was, Melissa Akullu made it clear. The25-year-old Portugal-based center turned in a spectacular performance, dropping a game-high 26 points, along with 7 rebounds and an assist.
Playing for Imortal Basquete Clube Albufeira in Portugal, Akullu was unstoppable on both ends. Offensively, she sank two three-pointers, hit 8-of-13 two-point attempts, and consistently outmuscled Guinea’s defense. Defensively, she used her 1.85m frame to great effect, pulling down two defensive boards and collecting three steals.
If Uganda hope to surpass their best-ever finish—seventh place in 2023—Akullu’s continued brilliance will be key.
Post-Game Reactions
Despite a 37-pointloss, Guinea took some positives from the performance, especially after their heavy 92–48 defeat to Senegal in their opening match.
“The game was better than the one against Senegal. We started getting into the mix, moving the ball better and making better shots. But Uganda rebounded really well and kept applying pressure with a strong press,” said Spain-based forward Batouly Camara.
Uganda’s Paige Robinson credited preparation and execution for the victory.
“We knew Guinea would come out fighting after their loss last night. We trusted our game plan, executed well, and eventually broke away.”
Next Up: Senegal Showdown
Uganda now turns their focus to a high-stakes clash against Senegal on Monday. With both teams having won their opening games, the matchup could determine the top spot in Group C—and potentially an automatic ticket to the quarterfinals.
[Photography Courtesy of FIBA]
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