President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, on securing a place in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket — their fifth consecutive appearance in the tournament’s title match.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded the team’s grit and consistency, describing their narrow 75–68 victory over archrivals Senegal as a testament to their resilience and championship spirit. The semi-final clash unfolded at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
“This was more than a semi-final; it was the final before the final,” the President said, praising the team for not only defeating Senegal for the seventh consecutive time but also securing a place in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers.
“I have observed the discipline, focus, and team spirit consistently displayed by D’Tigress throughout this tournament—qualities that have brought honour to our nation and earned respect for our players and coaches worldwide,” he said.
President Tinubu paid special tribute to Rena Wakama, the team’s head coach and the first woman to lead the side, applauding her inspiring leadership both as a former player and now as a tactician.
“Her leadership continues to inspire D’Tigress to new heights in this highly competitive sport,” the President stated.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his unwavering support for Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, as they edge closer to a historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket crown and broader international success.
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In a high-stakes semi-final showdown on Saturday, the reigning champions showcased resilience and tactical maturity, rallying from a significant fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Senegal 75–68 in a tightly contested fixture.
Trailing by eight points at the start of the final quarter, D’Tigress found themselves under immense pressure. Senegal’s Cierra Dillard led the charge for her side with a commanding performance — tallying 26 points, seven rebounds, and three assists — and driving her team’s dominance through the third quarter.
But the Nigerians dug deep.
Ezinne Kalu ignited the comeback with a critical steal and finish, cutting into Senegal’s lead. Victory Macaulay followed with a decisive hook shot to swing momentum Nigeria’s way, putting the team ahead 69–66. From there, D’Tigress tightened their grip, closing out the game with a 10–3 run in the final three minutes to seal a dramatic victory.
Saturday’s win extends Nigeria’s AfroBasket unbeaten streak to an astonishing 28 matches, a run that dates back to 2015. With the final now in sight, they await the outcome of the second semi-final between South Sudan and Mali, as they pursue a record-breaking fifth consecutive — and seventh overall — African title.