Senator Oluremi Tinubu has praised Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for clinching their unprecedented fifth consecutive #AfroBasketWomen title, making Nigeria the first African nation to achieve this feat.
“You are true inspirations and a source of pride for girls and women everywhere. Thank you for keeping the Nigerian flag flying high,” the First Lady said in a statement on Sunday night.
In the final clash, Nigeria defeated Mali 78-64 in a tense encounter, showcasing resilience and composure to secure their seventh AfroBasket crown. This victory extends their dominance in African women’s basketball, marking their 29th consecutive win without a loss since 2015.
Despite a slow start, coach Rena Wakama’s side rallied in the second quarter to tie the game 41–41 at halftime, spurred on by Mali’s intensity.
To reach the final, D’Tigress had battled past Senegal 75-68 in a fiercely contested semi-final dubbed the “final before the final.”
Amy Okonkwo and Ezinne Kalu were instrumental in Sunday’s triumph, scoring 19 and 20 points respectively, with Kalu delivering clutch baskets in key moments. Promise Amukamara, Victoria Macaulay, and Musa also made vital contributions, with Musa adding nine points and four rebounds.
A dominant third quarter, where Nigeria outscored Mali 20-15, proved decisive. Leading 61-56 at the start of the fourth quarter, D’Tigress tightened their grip to seal a memorable victory.
This triumph cements Nigeria’s D’Tigress as the most formidable women’s basketball team in Africa, reinforcing their unmatched legacy on the continent.