UMass grad Destiney Philoxy paces Rwanda to AfroBasket opening win over Cote d’Ivoire

Destiney Philoxy repaid Rwanda’s faith immediately.

After making the country’s AfroBasket 2023 roster following a tryout, the UMass graduate lit up Cote d’Ivoire in the tournament opener on home soil Friday. She scored a game-high 18 points to go along with seven assists, two rebounds and a block in just 26 minutes of a 64-35 victory in Kigali, Rwanda.

The host country jumped out to a 14-7 lead after the first quarter but locked down Cote d’Ivoire in the second half. Rwanda allowed just 14 points after halftime and outscored its opponent 36-14.

Philoxy started the game at point guard and regularly attacked the heart of the defense, creating opportunities for herself and her teammates. She made 2-of-5 3 pointers when the defense left her unattended.

Her seven assists were the most on the competition’s first day, and Philoxy scored the third-most points in the opening fixtures.

Rwanda will next face Angola on Sunday.

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