In the world of sports, leadership is more than just wearing the captain’s armband—it’s about setting the standard, inspiring teammates, and delivering when it matters most.
Uganda’s Gazelles captain, Jane Asinde, embodies these qualities, proving her worth not only as a vocal leader but as the team’s standout performer on the court.
Asinde was recently named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Zone V Qualifiers in Cairo, Egypt. From the opening game to the championship showdown, Asinde led from the front, guiding Uganda to a historic 74-63 victory over hosts Egypt in the final. Her leadership and dominance ensured the Gazelles secured their coveted spot at the AfroBasket tournament.
Gazelles celebrating the win.
Beyond her role as captain, Asinde’s performances spoke volumes. She was the only Ugandan player to make it onto the awards podium, clinching both the MVP and Best Forward honors.
Over five games, she recorded two double-doubles, stamping her all-around skill and relentless work ethic. Her most impressive outing came against South Sudan, where she lit up the scoreboard with a tournament-high 28 points.
Her accolades place her among the elite in African women’s basketball, sharing the spotlight with South Sudanese guard Delica Washington, Egyptian shooting guard Nadine Mohamed, Kenyan small forward Victoria Reynolds, and Egyptian center Reneem Elgedawy.
But Asinde’s leadership extends beyond international competitions. Born on October 15, 1999, in Kampala, Uganda, the 6’2” forward has steadily built a reputation as one of Uganda’s finest basketball exports.
Currently playing for Henan Phoenix in the Chinese Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA), she continues to hone her craft at a high level. Her move to China came after a remarkable stint with the JKL Lady Dolphins, where she played a crucial role in securing the team’s fourth National Women’s Basketball Championship title.
Asinde’s journey is an inspiration to many young athletes in Uganda and beyond. Her ability to lead with both words and actions sets her apart as a role model for future generations. As the Gazelles prepare for the AfroBasket tournament, they do so with a captain who has already proven she can lead them to victory—by example, determination, and sheer talent. The FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament will take place in Ivory Coast from July 25 to August 3.
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