Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have advanced to the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket after a hard-fought 75-68 win over Senegal at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Saturday.
The victory not only cements their status as six-time continental champions but also extends their remarkable unbeaten run in the tournament to 10 years — a streak that continues to define their dominance on the African basketball scene.
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Under the guidance of head coach Rena Wakama, the Nigerian side has been nothing short of clinical throughout this year’s competition. Their journey began with a powerful statement in the group stage, thrashing Rwanda 92-45 in their opening match.
They then overcame a resilient Mozambique side 60-55 to finish top of their group with a perfect record.The quarterfinal clash saw the reigning champions decimate Cameroon with an emphatic 83-47 win, sending a clear message to their rivals ahead of the semifinals.
In the tense semifinal showdown with Senegal, D’Tigress came out firing, edging the first quarter 22-17. They carried their momentum into the second period, narrowly outscoring the Senegalese 21-20 to enter halftime with a six-point advantage.
However, the third quarter saw a shift in momentum as Senegal surged ahead, taking the quarter 21-9 and overturning the deficit to lead by six points heading into the final frame.
Unshaken, Nigeria mounted a spirited comeback in the fourth quarter, tightening their defense and rediscovering their offensive rhythm. They outclassed Senegal 23-10 in the final quarter to seal a well-earned seven-point victory.
This result means D’Tigress will feature in their fifth straight AfroBasket final — a remarkable feat that underlines their consistency and supremacy on the continental stage.
Key contributors to Nigeria’s win included guard Ezinne Kalu, who led all scorers with 19 points, along with 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Promise Amukamara was also impressive, adding 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.
Amy Okonkwo chipped in with 15 points and 5 rebounds, while Victoria Macaulay contributed 13 points and 3 rebounds.
D’Tigress will now aim to clinch their seventh title in the final, with eyes firmly set on maintaining their grip on African women’s basketball.
