By Prosper Mene
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, secured their place in the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket final after a thrilling 75-68 comeback win against Senegal on Saturday at the Palais des Sports de Treichville.
The victory marks Nigeria’s fifth straight final appearance, keeping their dream of a record-extending fifth consecutive title alive.
In a match dubbed the “final before the final,” D’Tigress faced a fierce challenge from their long-time rivals, Senegal, led by former D’Tigress coach Otis Hughley Jr. Nigeria started strong, leading 22-17 after the first quarter and holding a 43-37 advantage at halftime. However, Senegal surged ahead in the third quarter, outscoring Nigeria 21-9 to take a 58-52 lead. Undeterred, D’Tigress mounted a stunning 23-10 run in the fourth quarter, driven by Ezinne Kalu’s 19 points, Promise Amukamara’s 16 points, and Amy Okonkwo’s 15 points, to seal the victory.Coach Rena Wakama’s squad showcased resilience, overcoming an eight-point deficit in the final period to extend their unbeaten AfroBasket streak to 28 games since 2015. Senegal’s Cierra Dillard led all scorers with 26 points, but Nigeria’s balanced attack and relentless defense proved decisive.
D’Tigress now await the winner of the Mali-South Sudan semi-final in Sunday’s championship game, as they aim to cement their legacy as Africa’s basketball powerhouse. The win also secures Nigeria’s spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments.Hon.
Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, praised the team’s “indomitable Nigerian spirit,” calling the comeback a symbol of unity and courage. Fans on echoed the excitement, celebrating D’Tigress’ ninth consecutive win over Senegal.
