DTigress’ amid the social-economic challenges and the ongoing protest in Nigeria. The Nigeria women’s national basketball team popularly known as, D’Tigress, defeated Canada on Sunday 4, August to a score of 79-70 and triumphed as the first African side, male or female, to qualify for the Quarter Final in the Olympic games at Paris 2024.
D’Tigress, who made their first appearance at the 2004 Athens Olympics, has shown dominance in African basketball, winning the AfroBasket Women Championship in 2017 at Mali, 2019 at Senegal, 2021 at Cameroun, and 2023 at Rwanda.
The achievements of the D’Tigress can be attributed to a combination of skilled leadership, dedicated players and vigorous teamwork.
As of 2024, the Nigeria women’s national basketball team is led by Coach Rena Wakama. She took up the team from ‘Chaos’ to ‘Victorious’. She was the first coach who led Nigeria in defeating a top-rated team (Australia) at the Olympics and won the 2023 AfroBasket.
Wakama, born on April 11, 1992, in Raleigh, North Carolina to Johnson Wakama and Rosana Oba who are natives of Okrika, Rivers State, Nigeria, had a remarkable playing career before transitioning into coaching.
She played college basketball in the United States for four years, which provided her with significant experience and exposure to high-level basketball.
At 32 years old, Wakama has become the first female head coach to win the AfroBasket title in one year. Wakama’s approach to coaching emphasizes not only the tactical aspects of the game but also the importance of unity and resilience.
Under Coach Rena Wakama’s leadership, players like Ezinne Kalu are known for their scoring ability and leadership, Adaora Elonu is known for her versatility and experience in the game and Evelyn Akhator is known for her rebounding and defensive skills.
They have flourished, by bringing their best to every game and globally demonstrating exceptional talent and determination.
D’Tigress has the talent, experience, and determination to win the gold medal for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Their recent achievements and strong team dynamics provide a solid foundation for them and we hope they bring it home.
For many Nigerians, D’Tigress victories are more than just sports achievements. They represent hope and a break from the daily struggles and challenges faced by many across the nation.
