Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, opened their 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket title defence in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 92–45 victory over Rwanda on Saturday at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan.
The win marks a strong start for the six-time champions, who are chasing a record-extending seventh title and a fifth consecutive crown, having gone unbeaten in 25 games since October 2015.
Nigeria asserted their dominance early, ending the first quarter with a 17–8 lead. They tightened their grip in the second and third quarters, outscoring Rwanda 28–17 and 26–12 respectively, leaving no room for a comeback. The fourth quarter was no different, with D’Tigress closing out the game 21–8 to seal a commanding win.
Africa’s top-ranked side once again showcased their depth and firepower:
Elizabeth Balogun, who plies her trade with Charnay Basket in France, led the scoring with 18 points, along with four offensive and two defensive rebounds. Victoria Macaulay added 13 points, four defensive rebounds, and two offensive boards, delivering a typically composed performance. Murjanatu Musa also stood out with 12 points, five defensive rebounds, and two on offense.
The victory reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball, as Rwanda struggled to pose any real threat throughout the contest.
Earlier in the day, continental powerhouse Senegal also opened their campaign on a strong note with a 92–48 win over Guinea in group C.
D’Tigress will return to action on Monday at 4 p.m. Nigerian time when they face Mozambique, again at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan.