Nigeria’s D’Tigress are not just champions — they are a dynasty. In Abidjan, the team claimed their fifth consecutive AfroBasket Women’s crown, defeating Senegal 78–64 in a final that underlined nearly a decade of total dominance.
Former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo captured the mood perfectly: “They arrived to remind the continent what happens when preparation meets purpose. This is not a streak. This is a standard.”
A Team of Stars
Amy Okonkwo delivered with Kobe Bryant-like fearlessness, Promise Amukamara controlled the tempo with Magic Johnson’s vision, while Nicole Enabosi anchored the paint with A’ja Wilson’s authority.
Pallas Kunaiyi Akpannah cleaned the boards with Hakeem Olajuwon’s finesse, Elizabeth Balogun lit up the arc like Stephen Curry, and Ezinne Kalu orchestrated every move with Chris Paul’s grit and leadership.
It was a masterclass in teamwork, poise, and unshakable Nigerian confidence.
The Mastermind on the Sidelines
Head coach Rena Wakama made history as the first female coach to win back-to-back AfroBasket titles for Nigeria. Her tactical brilliance — swift timeouts, clever defensive switches, and calm authority — proved decisive.
Even her choice of wardrobe told a story: all Made-in-Nigeria, a subtle reminder that the team not only represents the country but wears it.
More Than Just Basketball
For D’Tigress, this victory was about more than lifting another trophy. It was a statement of dominance, resilience, and pride.
As Osinbajo summed it up: “Nigeria is not attending history. We are writing it. In green. In white. In gold.”
With five straight titles and an unbeaten run stretching close to a decade, D’Tigress have set the standard for African basketball.
This is not just a team. This is a thesis.
And the thesis is clear: Nigeria reigns.
