By: Joy Musa
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, delivered a thrilling comeback victory against Senegal on Saturday night, securing their place in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament. The reigning champions edged out Senegal 75–68 in a high-stakes semifinal clash at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, extending their unbeaten run in the competition to an astonishing 28 games.
Loading ...The match, dubbed the “final before the final,” saw D’Tigress overcome an eight-point deficit in the third quarter with a dominant fourth-quarter performance. Led by standout players Ezinne Kalu (19 points), Promise Amukamara (16 points), and Amy Okonkwo (15 points), Nigeria clawed back into the game with grit and poise.
Victoria Macaulay also played a pivotal role, contributing 13 points and three blocks, while the team’s defensive intensity and clutch shooting in the final minutes sealed the win.
This victory marks D’Tigress’ fifth consecutive appearance in the Afrobasket final, a feat unmatched in African women’s basketball history. The team now stands on the brink of clinching straight continental title, a testament to their decade-long dominance.
Among the many voices celebrating the team’s achievement was former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who took to social media to express his admiration:
“Congratulations, D’Tigress. You gave an incredible semi-final performance… You have made Nigeria proud yet again. Ten years unbeaten is nothing but dominance. Go finish what you started, Nigeria stands with you. Bring the trophy home.” Peter Obi
His message resonated with millions of Nigerians who have followed the team’s journey with pride and anticipation.
D’Tigress will face the winner of the other semifinal between Mali and South Sudan in Sunday’s final. With history within reach, Coach Rena Wakama’s squad remains focused on their mission: to bring the trophy home and cement their legacy as Africa’s greatest women’s basketball team.
