Uganda's Gazelles have booked their place in the women's 3×3 basketball final at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games after dismantling New Zealand 21-9 in a one-sided semifinal that left Ugandan fans dreaming of gold.
The victory guarantees Team Uganda its second medal of the Games and marks another historic achievement for a side that has been one of the standout performers throughout the tournament.
Melissa Akullu, Jane Asinde, Jamila Nansikombi and Perus Nyamwenge produced a clinical display from the opening whistle. Uganda's relentless defensive pressure frustrated the New Zealanders, with quick hands, aggressive switching and energetic hustle denying them any rhythm.
Once the defense had done its job, the Gazelles caught fire offensively. Their balanced attack combined dominant inside scoring with accurate shooting from beyond the arc, allowing Uganda to build a commanding lead early in the contest.
With about three minutes remaining, the result was effectively beyond doubt as the Gazelles continued to overwhelm their opponents. Roared on by a passionate Ugandan crowd inside the arena, Nick Natuhereza's side never looked back, sealing an emphatic 21-9 victory.
The result caps an outstanding Commonwealth Games campaign for the Gazelles, who have impressed with their resilience, teamwork and fearless style of play since the tournament began.
Attention now turns to the gold medal showdown, where Uganda will face the winner of the second semifinal between Australia and Jamaica later tonight.
With at least a silver medal already secured, the Gazelles have already made history. But after another dominant performance, they will head into the final believing they have every chance of bringing Commonwealth Games gold back to Uganda.