Uganda Women’s national basketball team, the Gazelles, have got the Afrobasket preparations underway.

The team conducted their first training on Monday at Africa Bible University in Lubowa.

Uganda is set to take part in the 2023 FIBA Women Afrobasket due July 28 to August 6 in Kigali, Rwanda.

The training which was initially set to start on Saturday, was conducted by assistant coach Nicholas Natuhereza.

Of the 10 local-based players summoned, three didn’t take part – team captain Flavia Oketcho (JKL Lady Dolphins) is still in United Kingdom with her family but will be arriving in the Country on Tuesday.

UCU Lady Canons’ duo of Bridget Aber and Shakira Nanvubya travelled with the U23 3×3 National team to DR Congo for the U23 Nations League.

Four foreign-based players – Jane Asinde (UTEP), Priscilla Abby (Grayson College), Victoria Mukisa (Simpson College) and Lydia Babirye (Victoria Christian High) – of the summoned nine, attended the session.

Maria Najjuma jets in on Tuesday, and will take part in Wednesday’s session.

Coach Albert Antuna and the rest of other foreign-based players, will be joining the team later on.

Training is at Lubowa as Lugogo is yet to be available for now.

The final selected team (possible 12), will head to Kigali, Rwanda for a residential camp starting on July 15.

The Gazelles will face off with African powerhouses Senegal and Mali following draws conducted last month.

The Gazelles will make their third appearance on the continent after debuting in 1997 and at the 2015 edition held in Cameroon.