This archive report was first published on 17 July 2021.
On a memorable Saturday evening in Kigali, the Kenya Lionesses delivered a stunning performance, defeating pre-tournament favourites Egypt 99-83 and securing their spot at the FIBA Women's Afrobasket in Cameroon, September 2021.
Coming off a poor start to the tournament, the Lionesses made a remarkable comeback, exacting revenge on the Egyptians who had previously beaten them 107-16 in the first round matches.
USA-based players Felmas Koranga, Victoria Reynolds, and skipper Melissa Akinyi, daughter of football legend John 'Bobby' Ogolla, played a crucial role in the team's victory.
At the Kigali Arena, the Kenyan contingent celebrated their momentous achievement, following in the footsteps of the Kenya Morans who had qualified for the continental showpiece after 23 years.
Reynolds was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player and best small forward, while Koranga was awarded the best power forward title.
Reynolds expressed her elation, saying, 'It was a very competitive tournament, and getting this award on my first time here with the team is unbelievable. I am pleased we have won and qualified.'
Assistant coach Mike Opel praised the team's persistence, saying, 'Egypt has been a thorn in the flesh for so long, but now we have won, and this feels great. It is all about persistence.'
