Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has once again proven its unrivaled dominance in African basketball. The team clinched a historic fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title after a commanding 78-64 victory over Mali in a thrilling final held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
This unprecedented achievement solidifies D’Tigress’s place in the history books, as they become the first team on the continent to win five straight championships. The victory also extends their remarkable unbeaten streak in the competition to an astonishing 29 games, a run that began a decade ago.
A Hard-Fought Victory Against a Resilient Opponent
The final was not an easy ride for the defending champions. Mali came out strong, taking an early 26-21 lead in the first quarter and pushing D’Tigress to their limits. However, fueled by tactical adjustments from head coach Rena Wakama and a dominant team performance, Nigeria fought back to tie the game at 41-41 by halftime.
The second half saw a different D’Tigress on the court. They ramped up their defensive intensity and showcased their superior depth, pulling away from Mali with a decisive 37-23 run in the final two quarters. Standout player Amy Okonkwo delivered a game-high 26 points, while Ezinne Kalu also made key contributions, helping to seal the victory.
Presidential Recognition and Support
The historic win was met with widespread celebration across Nigeria, including a special message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Prior to the final, the President had sent a presidential delegation to Côte d’Ivoire to support the team, an act that undoubtedly boosted the players’ morale.
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu praised D’Tigress for their discipline, focus, and unwavering team spirit. He highlighted that their consistent performance and dominance have brought “honour to our nation and earned respect for our players and coaches worldwide.”
The Legacy of D’Tigress
The latest AfroBasket triumph marks D’Tigress’s seventh continental title overall, a feat that now matches Senegal’s record for the most titles won by any African nation. The win also secures Nigeria a spot in the upcoming 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, continuing their journey on the global stage.
The team’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff, particularly head coach Rena Wakama, who has now led the team to two consecutive titles. This latest victory is not just a win; it is a statement of enduring excellence and a powerful source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
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