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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, Rena Wakama, has reaffirmed D’Tigress’ focus on retaining their AfroBasket crown while setting their sights on a podium finish at the Olympics.
Speaking during an open training session in Abuja on Sunday, Wakama emphasized that the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship, set to tip off on July 26 in Ivory Coast, presents an opportunity to defend Nigeria’s continental dominance.
“The short-term goal is to win AfroBasket again. The long-term goal is always the Olympics — to get on the podium, to win a medal. That’s where we want to be,” Wakama said.
Coach Rena Wakama
Wakama made history in 2023 as the first female coach to win the Women’s AfroBasket, guiding Nigeria to its fourth consecutive title in Rwanda. She went on to lead D’Tigress to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Nigeria’s best-ever finish in Olympic women’s basketball.
With a fifth continental title now in their crosshairs, Wakama stressed the importance of unity, resilience, and focus heading into the championship.
“We have a core that’s been with me for a few years now. But the key is to connect, come together, and be focused,” she said.
“Everyone is coming for us. It is what it is. We have to be tight enough to withstand any obstacle.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond immediate goals, Wakama also spoke passionately about her mission to uplift women’s basketball in Nigeria and inspire the next generation of female athletes.
“Outside of sports, we want to continue to empower and uplift basketball in Nigeria. We need support — from the fans, from everyone.
“It’s beautiful to see the support today, but we need more. After these girls are gone, who’s next? That’s what I think about,” she added.
She further stressed that the team will give nothing short of their best in Ivory Coast.
“It’s excitement — no pressure. We’re going to give our all. Any team I coach will play as hard as they can.
“If we give our all and win, great. If we give our all and lose, great. We gave our all. That’s what matters.”
Okonkwo: “We’re Preparing to Win”
Team captain Amy Okonkwo echoed her coach’s confidence, noting the team’s chemistry, determination, and readiness to compete.
“We’re excited to be back together. We have a lot of good energy, and some new faces. We’re focused and preparing to win,” said Okonkwo.
Amy Okonkwo
She acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed belief in the squad’s potential.
“We’re working hard on our defense, our offense, and our chemistry. I’m confident in us, but we know it’s going to take hard work.
“Anybody can beat anybody — we have to go in with confidence and play together.”
With their eyes firmly on both continental and global success, D’Tigress head into the 2025 AfroBasket as favourites, aiming for a historic fifth title while building momentum for a deeper run at future Olympic Games.
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