The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has initiated preparations for the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship, scheduled to be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Their primary goal is to retain the championship title and continue their reign of dominance in African women’s basketball. As a crucial first step, the NBBF has announced a preliminary squad of twenty talented players, encompassing a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. This diverse group represents a strategic approach to team building, leveraging experience while simultaneously integrating fresh talent into the national team setup. The NBBF’s commitment to assembling the strongest possible team underscores their determination to maintain their standing as the premier force in African women’s basketball.
The preliminary squad features a dynamic roster of players, strategically selected to cover all positions on the court. Starting with the point guard position, the team boasts the experience of Precious Amukamara and Ezinne Kalu, both capable of orchestrating the offense and dictating the tempo of the game. Ifunaya Okoro offers versatility, able to contribute both as a guard and a center, providing flexibility in lineup configurations. The shooting guard and forward positions are well-represented by Elizabeth Balogun, Grace Efosa, Solape Amusan, and Abiodun Yusuf, players known for their scoring prowess and defensive capabilities.
The forward positions further strengthen the squad with the inclusion of Adenike Olayemi, Amy Okonkwo, Nicole Enabosi, and Pallas Kunayi. These players bring a combination of athleticism, rebounding skills, and inside scoring, bolstering the team’s presence in the paint. The power forward position is occupied by Murjanatu Musa, Gift Uchenna, and Victoria Macaulay, players who combine physicality with a knack for securing rebounds and scoring around the basket. Macaulay, in particular, brings valuable experience, having competed at high levels internationally.
The center position features a formidable group comprising Christabel Ezumah, Izoje Uche, Lauren Ebo, Ugonne Onyiah, Vera Ojenuwa, and Blessing Ejiofor. These players provide a crucial defensive anchor in the paint, protecting the rim and controlling rebounds. Their presence allows the guards and forwards to play more aggressively on the perimeter, knowing they have strong support in the interior. This deep pool of talent at the center position ensures the team is well-equipped to handle various opposing matchups and maintain defensive intensity throughout the tournament.
The NBBF has outlined a comprehensive preparation plan leading up to the championship, beginning with a series of exhibition games in Abuja in July. These “homecoming” games serve multiple purposes. They provide an opportunity for fans to celebrate the team’s past achievements, fostering a sense of national pride and support. More importantly, these games will allow the coaching staff to assess the players in a competitive environment, evaluate team chemistry, and fine-tune strategies ahead of the tournament. This practical approach will be invaluable in determining the final squad composition and ensuring the team is optimally prepared for the challenges ahead.
The selection of the preliminary squad marks a significant step in Nigeria’s journey to defend its Afrobasket title. The blend of experience and youth, coupled with a well-defined preparation plan, positions the team favorably for success. The NBBF’s commitment to selecting the strongest possible squad underscores their ambition to maintain their continental dominance, setting the stage for an exciting and highly anticipated tournament in Abidjan. The upcoming exhibition games will provide valuable insights into the team’s strengths and areas for improvement, allowing the coaching staff to refine their strategies and finalize the roster for the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship.
