YAOUNDE (Cameroon) - Gabon suffered heavy defeat on Friday afternoon after falling 121-32 to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Zone 4 qualifier for the 2023 Women's AfroBasket in Yaounde.

The Congolese, who are seeking a 16th appearance in FIBA Africa's flagship women's competition, were ruthless from the jump-ball to the buzzer.

The former African champions showed no mercy as they broke loose in the first two opening quarters before heading to the locker room with a 50-23 advantage. 

Congo, who last featured in the African continent biggest women's championship in 2019, showed more eagerness to return to the big stage as they made Gabon look ordinary in the second half winning by as much as 61-9 (31-0, 30-9) to coast home to victory.

Both sides will return Palais Polyvalent arena on Saturday for the return leg.

Congo captain Cecile Nyoka led the floor with 25 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals but it was forward Deborah Kaba Mayiwona who held the key of the day with a double-double of 23 points and 14 rebounds, while the quartet of Marlene Ngobeleza, Debarah Watshini Tshiyoyo, Feza Ebengo Isomi and Ketia Mbelu combined for 50 points.

FIBA