Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will tip off their 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket campaign on Saturday afternoon in Abidjan with a highly anticipated Group Phase clash against Rwanda.
The match marks D’Tigress’ first competitive appearance since their historic quarter-final finish at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games — the best performance ever by an African team in Olympic basketball history.
Led by head coach Rena Wakama, who steered the team to gold at the last edition of AfroBasket in Kigali, the reigning champions are on a mission to claim a record-extending fifth consecutive title. Since 2017, D’Tigress have dominated the continental stage with triumphs in Mali, Senegal, Cameroon, and Rwanda.
Now in Côte d’Ivoire, the team is determined to continue their legacy and extend their unbeaten AfroBasket run, which stretches back to 2015.
“This team is battle-tested,” said Coach Wakama. “We respect Rwanda, but we are here to make history. The girls know what’s at stake, and they’re ready to compete.”
The 12-player Nigerian squad features a strong blend of experience and youthful energy. Key returnees include veteran guard Promise Amukamara, the dynamic Ezinne Kalu, versatile forward Amy Okonkwo, and sharpshooter Elizabeth Balogun. Pallas Kunayi-Akpannah, Nicole Enabosi, and Blessing Ejiofor bolster the frontcourt, while Victoria Macaulay and Murjanatu Musa bring interior presence. Team stalwarts Vera Ojenwa, Sarah Ogoke, and Ifunaya Okoro round out the roster.
Nigeria’s likely starting five includes Amukamara, Kalu, Balogun, Okonkwo, and Kunayi-Akpannah — a unit packed with pace, skill, and defensive tenacity.
Saturday’s encounter will be a test of how quickly the team has regrouped following the Olympics and how well the squad has gelled after a condensed training camp.
Rwanda, who made headlines by reaching the semi-finals at the last AfroBasket as hosts, will be aiming to spring a surprise and disrupt Nigeria’s title defence.
In a move to further motivate the team, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced enhanced bonuses and allowances for the players. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade also visited the team before their departure to show support and boost morale.
As D’Tigress begin their quest for another continental crown, all eyes will be on Abidjan to see whether this dominant generation can once again rise to the occasion.
