MAPUTO (FIBA U18 Women's African Championship 2018) - Rwanda’s Bella Murekatete continues to make the most of her international career.

She had just turned fifteen years when she first wore the blue and yellow jersey at the FIBA U16 Women's African Championship in Madagascar where she led all rebounders with 14 boards per game, although she could not help her country finish in the last place of the competition. 

Now, as eight African countries compete for two spots for next year's FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup, Murekatete has just helped Rwanda cause the biggest upset so far at the ongoing FIBA U18 Women’s African Championship 2018, in Maputo, beating title contender Egypt 46-37 on Day 1.

Ahead of Friday's Quarter-Finals, she shared some words with FIBA.basketball.

Rwanda caused some upset here in Maputo on Day 1 against Egypt. It must have been very special for your side.

Yes. Each time we met with Egypt in a competition, they easily took the best of us. Now, this was our time to shine. It is definitely some sweet revenge.

How did you feel progressing into the game and clinching that first-ever victory over Egypt?

It was awesome. We are getting close to our dream, but we need to be realistic. Every team here are good. But we are showing that Rwanda has progressed and that we need to be taken seriously.

Now that you are in the Quarter-Finals, against the Democratic Republic of Congo, do you have your eyes set on any particular goals?

We have talked amongst us. And the thing is: it’s a big yes. We want to lift the trophy on Sunday. We will definitely play our best to win here.

Is the dream possible?

It is basketball. Anything is possible. Anything can happen. We only need to believe in ourselves and make the most out of every opportunity that presents in front of us.

Three games into the FIBA U18 Women’s African Championship and you are  the tournament's top scorer so far. Are you looking for any individual trophy?

You see, we came here as a team and caused this surprise as a team. All I want is to help Rwanda grab the title. This would mean so much to us. Anyway, I will let people judge and see if I deserve any individual trophy.

Now a bit of talking about you. How did you start playing basketball?

Out of pure coincidence. I was walking in the street, and I met the actual head coach, Charles Mushumba. He saw some potential in me and I joined his training facility. It’s been four years since the story started.

When did you first wear Rwanda’s jersey?

It was in 2015. We were at the FIBA U16 Women’s African Championship. Funny thing is: We ended up last. But I was rewarded with the best rebounder trophy.

What are your plans for the future?

I definitely want to play basketball as long as I’m alive. More seriously, I’m studying at Genesis Prep, in Idaho (US), and it’s my fourth year in high school there. Then, I’m planning to study physical therapy. As for basketball, I’m looking to play in the WNBA.

FIBA