South Sudan defeated Kenya 80-63 in the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket Qualifiers, securing third place in Cairo. A powerful first half set the stage for the victory, with Rose Macuei achieving a double-double. Kenya, former champions, finished fourth, marking a decline from their previous performance in 2023.
In the recent Women’s AfroBasket Qualifiers held in Cairo, South Sudan secured their second consecutive victory over Kenya, winning 80-63 and finishing third out of five teams. The South Sudanese team started strong, establishing a significant lead in the first half, although they faced resistance from Kenya during the second quarter. The game concluded with South Sudan improving their win-loss record to 3-2, while Kenya, the 2021 regional champions, ended the qualifiers in fourth place after a victory against Burundi.
The turning point of the match came when Kenya, initially down by 19 points, rallied with three-pointers from Christine Akinyi and Jemimah Omondi to reduce the deficit to 32-22. Victoria Reynolds further narrowed the gap to six points before halftime, but a crucial three-point shot from Adut Bulgak ensured South Sudan maintained a lead of nine points. South Sudan’s dominance continued with a solid run in the third and final quarters.
Rose Macuei was a standout performer, achieving an impressive double-double with 18 points and 19 rebounds, leading the game in efficiency with a rating of 30. Her teammates Delicia Washington, Nyamuoch Pidor Teny, and Adut Bulgak also contributed significantly, scoring 25, 18, and 12 points, respectively, with Bulgak recording a double-double.
Statistically, Kenya struggled after falling behind early, ultimately losing by 17 points—consistent with their earlier defeat against South Sudan in the group phase. South Sudan’s rebounding advantage of 56 to 41 translated to 25 second-chance points compared to Kenya’s eight. Both teams were tied on points in the paint and off turnovers, but Kenya’s bench significantly outperformed South Sudan’s.
South Sudan’s performance demonstrates significant growth since their debut at the 2021 AfroBasket Qualifiers, where they did not secure a win. This progress is marked by a victory against Rwanda in 2023 and now three wins in the current qualifiers. Meanwhile, Kenya’s position has declined from third to fourth place in the qualifiers, missing the chance to compete in the upcoming African competition.
The Women’s AfroBasket Qualifiers serve as a critical tournament for teams aiming to compete at a continental level. South Sudan made their debut in these qualifiers in 2021 but faced challenges, finishing winless. However, they have shown remarkable improvement in recent years, culminating in a bronze medal victory in the 2025 qualifiers. Conversely, Kenya, previously a strong contender with a silver medal, has struggled to maintain their competitive edge in these recent qualifiers.
In summary, South Sudan’s victory over Kenya in the Women’s AfroBasket Qualifiers highlights their growth as a competitive team in African basketball. With a strong performance and strategic play, they have transitioned from a winless debut to securing significant victories. Meanwhile, Kenya’s decline in standings emphasizes the need for reassessment as they again miss the African competition.
Original Source: www.fiba.basketball
