Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, showcased remarkable resilience and unity on Monday night as they stormed back from a double-digit deficit to defeat their opponents and secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afro basket tournament.
Facing a tough Cameroonian side, D’Tigress trailed by 14 points at halftime but turned the tide in the second half through disciplined defense, strategic substitutions, and an unstoppable offensive burst led by team captain Amy Okonkwo. The final score, 68–62, marked not just a win, but a statement of grit and determination.
The comeback was a collective effort. From bench players stepping up under pressure to the coaching staff adjusting tactics mid-game, the team embodied the spirit of togetherness that has long defined Nigerian women’s basketball.
“This win wasn’t just about talent—it was about heart,” said Coach Rena Wakama, the first woman to lead the team at a major international tournament. “These women believe in each other, and that made all the difference.”
The victory sends D’Tigress into the quarter-finals, where they are set to face a strong Senegalese team. As four-time defending champions, expectations are high, but the team continues to take it one game at a time.
What makes this comeback particularly significant is not just the points overturned but how it reflects the depth and maturity of the squad. The Afro basket tournament, often seen as a battleground for African basketball dominance, demands both physical and mental toughness. D’Tigress, dealing with injuries and recent leadership changes, proved they are still a force to be reckoned with.
Their win also highlights the growing strength of women’s sports in Nigeria and across Africa. As more resources and attention are being devoted to female athletes, performances like this show what’s possible when talent is given the support it deserves.
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