Ashlyn Watkins, a standout center for the South Carolina women’s basketball team, has been arrested and charged with first-degree assault and kidnapping. The incident occurred at the University of South Carolina's student housing, where Watkins allegedly assaulted a minor. Her attorney claims it is a misunderstanding.
Women's Basketball: Latest African News and Stories
Looking for what’s happening in women’s basketball on the continent? You’re in the right spot. From the Nigerian Premier League to the Kenyan national team, we’ve gathered the most important scores, player moves, and tournament updates. Think of this as your daily briefing – no fluff, just the facts you need to stay in the loop.
Top Leagues and Tournaments
The Nigerian Women’s Basketball League (NWBL) kicked off its season last week, and the defending champions Lagos Lightning are already showing why they earned the title. Their star guard, Aisha Bello, dropped 22 points in the opening game against Abuja Queens, setting the tone for a tight race. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Women’s Basketball Championship is gearing up for a finals showdown in Johannesburg next month. The defending champs, Pretoria Panthers, face a surprise challenger from Cape Town, the Coastal Sharks, who have gone unbeaten for six games.
On the international front, the FIBA Women's AfroBasket qualifiers are heating up. Teams from Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Tanzania are battling for the last spots in the 2025 tournament. Tanzania’s women made headlines after a 2‑0 win over Burkina Faso in the CHAN opener, showing they have the depth to compete at the AfroBasket level. Keep an eye on the match schedules – most games are streamed for free on local sports channels.
Rising Stars to Watch
If you love spotting future talent, the name “Mariam Ndlovu” should be on your radar. At just 19, the Zimbabwe forward led her club to a league title with an average of 15 points per game. Her quick footwork and accurate shooting have drawn interest from European clubs, but she says she wants to finish the season in Africa first.
Another player turning heads is Kenya’s point guard, Faith Otieno. After a standout performance in the East African Games, where she logged 10 assists in a single match, scouts from the French Ligue Féminine have reached out. Otieno’s ability to read defenses makes her a game‑changer, and she’s already being touted as a future captain for the national team.
Don’t forget the coaches shaping these athletes. Nigeria’s head coach, Funmi Adeyemi, emphasizes a fast‑break style that has helped her team dominate the paint. Her approach is now being copied by several other clubs, showing how strong leadership can raise the whole league’s level.
Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated follower, staying updated on women’s basketball in Africa is easier than ever. Bookmark this page, check the weekly schedule, and dive into the stories of the players who are putting African women’s basketball on the map. The next big upset could be just a game away, and you’ll be the first to know.