Les Lionnes” missed out on Uganda. The Senegalese women were beaten by the «Gazelles» (85-83) in a match counting for the first day of Pool C, this Saturday, July 28, 2023.
After a difficult start to the match, the «Lionnes» managed to win the first quarter (17-21) thanks to the leader Cierra Dillard and the experienced captain Aya Traoré.
In the second quarter, the Ugandans were more enterprising causing difficulties for the Senegalese defense. The protected of Moustapha Gaye lost a lot of balls, which allowed the «Gazelles» to reconnect to the score. The Senegalese led at the end of the first two quarters (35-38).
When the dressing room came back, the «Lionnes» could not keep the score, they were dominated in the game thanks to the talented Jannon Jaye Otto, American naturalized Ugandan. The Ugandan team’s centrepiece, Otto, slammed 19 points allowing the Gazelles to win their match against Senegal (83-85).
Aya Traoré despite her 40 years, shone on the floor. The captain of the «Lionnes» spoke of her experience and finished best scorer and MVP of the game with 29 points.
Cierra Janay Dillard also shone. The Senegalese naturalized American scored 19 points. She finished second best scorer behind Aya Traoré.
On Sunday, Senegal and Mali meet on the floor of Kigali Arena for the second day of Pool C. A West African derby that promises sparks.
