By Prosper Mene
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has inked its name in the history books, soaring to 8th place in the latest FIBA Women’s World Rankings, making them the first African team ever to break into the global top 10.
The announcement, made on Thursday, August 15, 2025, follows their brilliant performance at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, where they won their seventh continental title with a commanding 78–64 victory in the final.
This historic leap from 11th to 8th place, with 640.1 points, testifies D’Tigress’ dominance on the African stage and their growing prowess globally. The team’s unbeaten streak of 29 games, dating back to 2015, and their fifth consecutive AfroBasket crown, a record unmatched by any men’s or women’s team in Africa, highlight the squad’s relentless drive and skill.
“This is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and dedication of our players. We have shown that Africa can compete with the best in the world,” a team representative said, celebrating the milestone as a defining moment for African basketball.
D’Tigress’ rise places them among the world’s elite, with the United States leading the rankings at 880.9 points, followed by Australia (719.6), France (719.2), China (712.7), and Belgium (702.1). The team’s success not only elevates Nigeria’s standing but also inspires a new generation of athletes across the continent, showcasing the growing strength of women’s basketball in Africa.
