Nigeria’s D’Tigress have etched their name in the history books, becoming the first African team to win five consecutive AfroBasket Women titles. With a commanding 78–64 victory over Mali in the final, the Nigerian side not only claimed their seventh continental crown but also extended an astonishing 29-game unbeaten run in the tournament, an unbroken streak since 2015.
As in many of their earlier matches, D’Tigress had a slow start. Mali’s high intensity tested Nigeria’s composure, but head coach Rena Wakama’s squad rallied in the second quarter, drawing level 41–41 by halftime.
To book their spot in the final, Nigeria had to overcome a fierce challenge from Senegal in what was widely regarded as the “final before the final.” They battled to a hard-fought 75–68 victory, showing grit and mental fortitude when it mattered most.
In the championship game, standout performances by Amy Okonkwo and Ezinne Kalu proved decisive. Okonkwo scored 19 points, while Kalu led the team with 20, delivering crucial baskets during pivotal moments in the second and third quarters.
Promise Amukamara, Victoria Macaulay, and Sarah Ogoke Musa also made significant contributions—Musa adding nine critical points and four rebounds—underscoring the squad’s depth and balance.
The third quarter was the game’s turning point, with D’Tigress tightening their defense and outscoring Mali 20–15. They entered the final quarter with a 61–56 lead and never looked back, sealing a well-deserved triumph.
This historic victory firmly cements D’Tigress’ status as the dominant force in African women’s basketball.
The win is expected to draw recognition and reward from President Bola Tinubu, who recently gifted the Super Falcons $100,000 for their record 10th WAFCON title in Morocco. Following D’Tigress’ semifinal win, Tinubu had praised the team’s resilience and excellence, and offered special commendation to Rena Wakama, the first woman to coach the team—hailing her leadership both on and off the court.
