Ireland beaten by Uganda in Germany

Uganda 82-69 Ireland

Ireland were defeated by Uganda on Sunday in game one of their two-game series in Keltern Dietlingen, Germany.

Claire Melia, who recently announced her move to Spanish club Uni Ferrol, put in a commanding performance and registered 25 points, along with 12 rebounds and eight assists. Áine O’Connor also picked up 10 points and four rebounds.

James Weldon’s side, who are using these games as preparation for November’s EuroBasket 2025 qualifiers, started brightly and led by 12 points at one stage and were 17-9 ahead at the end of the opening quarter.

Uganda, who reached the quarter-finals of the AfroBasket last year, came back strongly in the second quarter and were 32-29 up by half-time.

Uganda had the twin threat of Paige Robinson and Jane Asinde – Robinson scored a game-high 26 points, along with three rebounds and three assists, while Asinde racked up 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

The third quarter belonged to Uganda as they pulled 57-43 clear going into the final quarter.

Ireland kept themselves in the contest and edged the fourth quarter without ever looking like overhauling their opponents.

Game two of the series takes place on Monday at 4pm Irish time.