The reigning champions delivered a commanding performance in the Rwanda Women's National League as REG BBC Women defeated APR BBC Women 83–68 on June 27, 2026, at the Kigali Arena. The victory reinforced REG’s status as the league’s dominant force, while APR showed resilience despite falling short in front of a passionate home crowd.

Match Overview

From the opening tip-off, REG BBC Women imposed their tempo, using relentless full-court pressure to force early turnovers. APR struggled to find rhythm offensively, and by the end of the first quarter, REG had built a 24–16 lead. The visitors extended their advantage to 14 points by halftime (46–32), capitalizing on fast-break opportunities and sharp three-point shooting.

APR came out with renewed energy in the third quarter, trimming the deficit to single digits behind aggressive drives to the basket and improved defensive rotations. However, REG responded with a 10–0 run to close the period, restoring a comfortable 68–52 cushion. The fourth quarter saw APR fight valiantly but never threaten the lead, as REG controlled the boards and executed in the half-court.

Key Moments

• First-quarter surge: REG opened with a 12–2 run, establishing defensive intensity that APR could not immediately counter.
• Halftime adjustment: APR head coach Marie Uwimana’s tactical shift — switching to a zone defense — slowed REG’s scoring and sparked a brief revival early in the third.
• Decisive run: With APR threatening at 54–46, REG guard Diane Mukasekuru knocked down two consecutive three-pointers to ignite the 10–0 burst that sealed the game.

Tactical Story

REG’s game plan centered on exploiting APR’s transition defense. Point guard Alice Ingabire consistently pushed the ball upcourt, finding open shooters or cutting wings before APR could set. Defensively, REG switched screens comfortably, limiting APR’s pick-and-roll options and forcing contested mid-range jumpers.

APR, known for their interior strength, were held to just 28 points in the paint — well below their season average. The absence of injured center Jeanne Uwimana was keenly felt, as REG’s frontcourt duo of Chantal Imanishimwe and Grace Mukandayisenga dominated the glass (combined 22 rebounds).

Standout Players

• Diane Mukasekuru (REG): Game-high 27 points on 9-of-15 shooting, including 5 three-pointers. Her scoring burst in the third quarter broke APR’s momentum.
• Alice Ingabire (REG): 11 assists and 6 steals — her court vision and defensive pressure set the tone for REG’s transition game.
• Chantal Imanishimwe (REG): 14 points and 13 rebounds for a double-double, anchoring the paint on both ends.
• Grace Mukandayisenga (REG): 12 rebounds (5 offensive) and 3 blocks, altering numerous APR shots inside.
• Justine Mukamana (APR): Scored 22 points despite tight defense, showcasing her ability to create off the dribble. Was APR’s most consistent offensive threat.

Impact on the League Table

The result keeps REG BBC Women firmly atop the Rwanda Women's National League standings with a 12–1 record, further solidifying their bid for a fourth consecutive title. APR, now 8–5, remain in third place but slip further behind the league leaders. The head-to-head advantage REG gained could prove decisive in the eventual playoff seeding.

For APR, the loss highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that must be addressed before the postseason. With key players expected to return from injury, the team will look to regroup and close the gap when the two sides meet again in late July.