Uganda seeks decent shift at 3x3 World Cup
Flag Bearers. Jamila Nansikombi (L), Sarah Ageno (C) and Ritah Imanishimwe (R) at the flag off ceremony at UOC offices, Lugogo before they set off for Manila. Inset on the right is Claire Lamunu. PHOTOS BY ISMAIL KEZAALA
What you need to know:
Uganda finished 14th during their only appearance todate at the global showpiece in 2014.
Uganda were rank outsiders after being placed in a pool of death at the ongoing 2018 Fiba 3x3 World Cup – Women’s tournament in the South East Asian country of the Philippines.
The team seeded 19th at the 20- team tournament were placed alongside fifth seeds and reigning champions Russia as well as tournament second seeds Andorra.
Also in the group is USA, two-time champions and whose previous title came in 2014 when Uganda finished 14th at their sole appearance.
And after games against Russia and Iran yesterday, the Ugandan team, the only representative on the continent, will be seeking to at least remain competitive when they face US and Andorra tomorrow morning.
“We are in a tough pool with USA and Russia but I think that we can win a few games. I hope that we can do our best to prepare ourselves for the tournament and make sure that we compete,” Claire Lamumu the team’s most experienced player opined when the draws were made.
Young squad
They will be up against a 13th ranked USA, who should get some lift from their predominantly young quartet (no one is older than 20) and led by prodigy Sabrina Ionescu.
Unlike the 2014 format where groups of six teams each saw the top four qualify to the round of 16, only the top two emerge from the group in the current format to reach the quarterfinals.
