In a thrilling opening game of the 2023 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket at BK Arena, in Kigali, Rwanda showed their prowess on Friday, July 28, securing a 64-35 victory over Cote d’Ivoire in Group A action.
Destiney Promise Philoxy was the star performer for the Rwandan side, dropping an impressive 18 points, leaving the crowd in awe of her skill and finesse on court. Janai Crooms Robertson and Hope Butera also made significant contributions, scoring 11 and 7 points, respectively, to solidify Rwanda’s commanding position.
In a press interview, Cheikh Sarr, the head coach of the Rwandan team, expressed satisfaction with the triumph, stating: “We are very happy about this win. We are ready to face the next challenge on Saturday with another opponent, Angola.”
Hope Butera, one of the key players in the victorious squad, is determined to succeed in the championship.
She said: “We’re ready to give whatever it takes to win. It’s my first time, it’s many people’s first time. But I think we are ready as a team, as a whole country, we’ll be great.”
Throughout the game, Rwanda demonstrated their dominance, outscoring Cote d’Ivoire with 34 points in the paint compared to theiopponent’s 20.
Marie Laurence Imanizabayo suffered an injury, but Butera stepped up on the defensive front, leading in rebounds with an impressive tally of 8. On the offensive end, Destiney Promise Philoxy showcased her versatility, leading in assists with 7.
On the Côte d’Ivoire side, Hanna Mabelle Amani topped the scoring chart with 6 points, while Amma Maria Flora Joyce Ouraga was a force on the boards, leading in rebounds with 7.
Rwanda’s next challenge comes on Sunday, July 30, as they take on Angola in what promises to be another thrilling encounter at 6 pm.
