The Nigeria Basketball Federation has unveiled a provisional roster of 20 players in preparation for the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament, slated to take place in Ivory Coast this summer. This squad represents a blend of seasoned veterans who spearheaded the team’s victory at the 2023 Afrobasket in Kigali, Rwanda, and promising emerging talents, poised to make their mark on the international stage. The selection emphasizes continuity while simultaneously integrating fresh blood, aiming to maintain Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball. The roster’s composition reflects a strategic approach, balancing experience with youthful dynamism.
Leading the charge are established stars such as Ezinne Kalu and Promise Amukamara, whose leadership and on-court prowess have been instrumental in Nigeria’s recent successes. Joining them is Amy Okonkwo, the Besiktas ace, bringing her offensive firepower and international experience to bolster the team’s scoring potential. Further strengthening the squad are Nicole Enabosi and Lauren Ebo, versatile forwards known for their defensive tenacity and rebounding prowess. The return of Victoria Macaulay, a seasoned center, adds depth and experience to the frontcourt, solidifying Nigeria’s presence under the basket.
The provisional squad also features several players earning their first or second call-up to the national team, highlighting the federation’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent. Solape Amusan receives her second invitation, while Grace Efosa earns her maiden call-up, showcasing the coaching staff’s keen eye for promising prospects. These newcomers will have the opportunity to train and compete alongside established stars, gaining invaluable experience and contributing to the team’s overall depth.
The defensive backbone of the team remains intact, with Pallas Kunaiyi and Murjanatu Musa, renowned for their shot-blocking and defensive intensity, continuing to anchor the defense. Their presence provides a formidable barrier in the paint, disrupting opponents’ offensive flow and creating opportunities for fast breaks. Completing the roster are Elizabeth Balogun, Ifunaya Okoro, Olawuyi Adenike, Christabel Ezumah, Vera Ojenuwa, Izoje Uche, Gift Uchenna, Ugonne Onyiah, Blessing Ejiofor, and Abiodun Damilola Yusuf, each bringing their unique skillset and contributing to the team’s overall versatility.
Under the leadership of Coach Rena Wakama, the reigning Afrobasket champions will be striving to achieve an unprecedented fifth consecutive title at the tournament. The team’s blend of experience, youth, and talent creates a potent combination, placing them in a strong position to defend their crown. The upcoming tournament in Ivory Coast presents an opportunity for Nigeria to reaffirm its position as the undisputed powerhouse of African women’s basketball. The coaching staff will focus on building chemistry and refining strategies as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
The 20-player provisional roster showcases the depth of talent within Nigerian women’s basketball and underscores the country’s commitment to maintaining its position at the pinnacle of the sport. The selection process reflects a strategic approach, emphasizing continuity while simultaneously integrating emerging talents into the national team setup. The blend of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance creates a dynamic squad capable of contending for the championship title. The upcoming FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament will serve as a platform for these players to showcase their skills and contribute to Nigeria’s continued success on the international stage.
This carefully curated roster, comprising a mix of established stars and promising newcomers, positions Nigeria as a strong contender for the championship. The team will embark on a rigorous training regimen in the lead-up to the tournament, focusing on honing their skills, developing team cohesion, and fine-tuning strategies. The coaching staff, led by Rena Wakama, will play a crucial role in maximizing the potential of this talented group and guiding them towards their ultimate goal of securing a fifth consecutive Afrobasket title. The journey to Ivory Coast promises to be an exciting one, as Nigeria aims to etch its name further into the annals of African basketball history.
