GLASGOW, Scotland — Team Uganda recorded a mix of encouraging performances and heartbreak at the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Tuesday, with the Gazelles moving to within one victory of a medal while the She Cranes bowed out of the netball competition.
The Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) said the national women’s 3×3 basketball team, the Gazelles, defeated Tonga 21-12 in the playoff to book a semifinal clash against New Zealand, with a place in the gold medal match and a guaranteed medal at stake.
The victory keeps Uganda’s hopes of securing its first medal in women’s 3×3 basketball alive at the Glasgow Games, which run from July 23 to August 2.
In netball, however, the She Cranes saw their semifinal ambitions come to an end after suffering a 58-50 defeat to world No. 2 New Zealand in a closely contested Pool B encounter.
Despite the loss, Uganda pushed one of the tournament favourites throughout the match before New Zealand pulled away in the closing stages.
Swimmers Advance to Semifinals
There was better news in the pool as Gloria Muzito and Kirabo Namutebi progressed to the women’s 50-metre freestyle semifinals at the Tollcross Swimming Centre.
Muzito finished third in her heat in 25.53 seconds, while Namutebi qualified after placing fifth in her heat with a time of 25.92 seconds.
However, teammates Jesse Ssegonzi, Tendo Kaumi and Jordan Samula narrowly missed out on places in the semifinals after failing to progress from their respective heats.
Boxer Batte Exits
Uganda’s boxing campaign also suffered a setback after Bombers captain Nuhu Batte was eliminated in the quarterfinals by England’s Patris Mughalzai.
The defeat ended Batte’s hopes of reaching the medal rounds in Glasgow.
Cherop Sets Personal Best
In athletics, Samuel Simba Cherop produced one of Uganda’s standout performances of the day, setting a personal best of 27:56.68 to finish seventh in the men’s 10,000 metres final.
Compatriot Dan Kibet placed 11th in 28:05.84, while Oscar Chelimo crossed the finish line in 12th with 28:10.49.
Archery Team Returns with Gold
Away from Glasgow, Uganda’s archery team returned home to a jubilant welcome after an impressive outing at the African Archery Championships in Oran, Algeria.
The team was led by Precious Allan Asiimwe, who won gold to earn the title of African champion.
Athletes were welcomed at the airport by family members, supporters and officials, including Uganda Archery Federation President Richard Asiimwe, who congratulated the team on their achievement.
Speaking on arrival, an emotional Asiimwe thanked Ugandans for their support and appreciation following his continental triumph.
With several athletes still in contention across swimming and 3×3 basketball, Uganda will be looking to add to its medal tally as competition continues at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.