Uganda Gazelles Make History, Reach Commonwealth Games 3x3 Basketball Final

By Osmara Digital Media | July 29, 2026

The Uganda Gazelles have etched their names into the history books after storming into the final of the women's 3x3 basketball tournament at the 2026 Commonwealth Games with a commanding 21-9 victory over New Zealand in the semifinals.

The emphatic win guarantees Uganda its first-ever Commonwealth Games medal in women's 3x3 basketball, marking a historic milestone for a team that has continued to rise on the continental and global stage.

Against New Zealand, the Gazelles displayed composure, speed, defensive discipline and clinical finishing. They dictated the pace from the opening possession, leaving their opponents chasing shadows before sealing the contest with the maximum 21 points.

For a nation that has steadily invested in basketball development, the achievement represents years of dedication from players, coaches and administrators who believed Uganda could compete with the world's best.

Now, only one hurdle remains.

The Gazelles face Australia in the gold medal match, with an opportunity to complete one of the greatest stories in Ugandan sporting history. Victory would crown Uganda as Commonwealth champions and elevate the team into the country's pantheon of sporting legends.

Uganda has walked this path before.

In 2021, Uganda stunned the basketball world when the national boys' 3x3 team defeated hosts Serbia 9-8 to win the inaugural International School Sport Federation (ISF) Basketball 3x3 gold medal. That triumph proved Ugandan basketball could overcome traditional powerhouses on the biggest stages.

The Gazelles now have the chance to write an even bigger chapter.

Beyond the guaranteed medal, their remarkable run has inspired young athletes across Uganda, especially girls dreaming of representing the nation in international competition. Their success demonstrates that talent, discipline and resilience can overcome limited resources.

Whatever happens in the final, the Gazelles have already delivered a historic breakthrough. But defeating Australia would transform an unforgettable campaign into one of the greatest moments in Uganda's sporting history—a victory that future generations would remember as the day Uganda conquered the Commonwealth in women's 3x3 basketball.