Alexandria Sporting Club, Champions of the 2023 FIBA African Women’s Basketball League

In their inaugural appearance in the finals, KPA faced the defending champion Sporting Club on the latter's home court. The stakes were high, and both teams felt the pressure, but KPA side could not disrupt the festivities for the host.

With under three minutes remaining in the first quarter, the teams were deadlocked at 13 when Hagar Amer swiftly scored 4 points for Sporting, propelling them into the lead. However, KPA faltered in the final seconds, allowing Sporting Club to establish a 7-point lead at 22-15 by the end of the quarter. The second quarter saw a repeat scenario, as KPA's lackluster defence prompted Sporting to capitalise on three-point opportunities.

Sporting achieved a significant triumph, excelling in three-point shooting courtesy of Hager Amer, Cierra Dillard, and Destiny Pitts, while KPA struggled to make an impact on the scoreboard. Approaching halftime, KPA sought a redemption basket within the final two minutes to shift the momentum, but Sporting denied them the opportunity. Sporting not only prevented KPA from scoring but also extended their lead by successfully sinking three-pointers, resulting in a commanding 58-32 halftime lead, creating a substantial 26-point gap between the two teams.

In the third quarter of the gold medal game, Sporting maintained their dominance, effectively closing down scoring opportunities and pressuring KPA into turnovers. With under three minutes remaining in the third period, Hager Amer had already amassed an impressive 28 points for Sporting.

Despite facing a substantial 38-point deficit by the end of the third period, Victoria Reynolds and Aminata Samassekou continued to keep the flame alive for KPA. As the final quarter approached, Sporting found themselves just ten minutes away from securing a back-to-back gold medal in this tournament, albeit under a different title.

In the final quarter, the Kenyan team struggled with numerous missed shots, grappling with the daunting task of overcoming a 40-point deficit. Sporting Club's impressive shooting accuracy proved insurmountable, making their path to the gold medal seem inevitable. With just two minutes remaining before clinching the gold, Sporting surged ahead, leading 101-54, and the scent of victory filled the air.

Demonstrating sportsmanship, Sporting deliberately dropped the ball with 11 seconds left on the clock. As the game clock ticked down, Alexandria Sporting Club was officially crowned the champions of the inaugural season of the 2023 FIBA African Women’s Basketball League.

The Egyptian basketball sensation, Hagar Amer, displayed flawless performance on the court, contributing an impressive 32 points, securing 9 rebounds, and making 3 steals. As a pivotal figure for her team, Amer not only showcased her individual brilliance but also proved to be an exceptional teammate.

Although they lost the championship game, KPA took pride in their performance and celebrated their well-deserved silver medal. This marked their inaugural appearance in a continental championship final, showcasing their significant achievement and determination on the basketball stage.

[Image/Photography Credit: FIBA]