Thrilling moments on day one of FIBA Women's Afrobasket 2023

The first day of the 28th edition of FIBA Women's Afrobasket tournament did not disappoint. There were captivating performances and memorable moments that left fans on the edge of their seats. Here's a rundown of the highlights from the opening day: Dominant victories The opening day showcased some dominant performances by teams. Nigeria started their campaign with a resounding 69-35 victory over DR Congo, while Mali proved their mettle with an impressive 80-66 win against Uganda. Cameroon secured a nail-biting 55-53 victory over Mozambique, setting the stage for an exciting tournament. Presence of basketball dignitaries The opening ceremony at BK Arena was graced by top basketball officials, including FIBA President Hamane Niang, FIBA Africa President Hannibal Manave, Rwanda Basketball Federation President Desire Mugwiza, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports Zephaniah Niyonkuru and the President of the Women Basketball Council, Ba Maimuna. Their presence added a touch of grandeur and significance to the event. Mesmerizing performances The opening ceremony was a sight to behold, with a captivating parade of all 12 team captains. There were mesmerising performances by Ariel Wayz, Kenny K-Shot, Ella Rings, Ishami talents, and Uruyange rw'Intayoberana troupe which celebrated the spirit of women in sports. The enchanting beats spun by DJs Iraa and Sonia added to the electrifying atmosphere. Rwanda's triumph The host nation, Rwanda, made a powerful statement by securing an impressive 64-35 victory over Cote d'Ivoire in their opening match. The home crowd rallied behind their team, providing a spirited atmosphere that spurred the players to perform at their best. The win was a significant moment of pride for the Rwandan fans and an indication of the team's determination to leave a mark on the tournament. Djeneba N'Diaye's heroics Mali's point guard, Djeneba N'Diaye, stole the show with an exceptional performance in their game against Uganda. Dropping an astounding 25 points, while also registering 2 steals and 5 assists, N'Diaye showcased her skills and proved to be an instrumental force in her team's victory.