Nigeria’s D’Tigress secured their spot in the final of the 2025 Afrobasket Championship with a hard-fought 75-68 victory over a tenacious Senegal team. The match, played at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, was a back-and-forth affair that showcased the talent and determination of both sides. D’Tigress started strong, narrowly edging out Senegal in the first two quarters, establishing a slim lead at halftime. However, the Senegalese Lionesses roared back in the third quarter, capitalizing on a lapse in Nigeria’s performance to take the lead, setting the stage for a dramatic final period. Nigeria’s resilience ultimately shone through as they mounted a stunning comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring Senegal to clinch the victory and a place in the championship game.
This victory was not just about advancing to the Afrobasket final; it also carried significant implications for D’Tigress’s global aspirations. By reaching the semifinals, Nigeria, along with Mali, Senegal, and South Sudan, guaranteed their participation in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments. This achievement underscores the growing strength of women’s basketball in Africa and positions these four nations to compete on the world stage. The qualification tournaments, scheduled for March, will offer these African teams a chance to test their mettle against some of the world’s best and earn a coveted spot in the World Cup. The qualification process represents a crucial step in their journey to global recognition and the opportunity to showcase their talent on the biggest stage.
The semifinal victory over Senegal was a testament to D’Tigress’s ability to overcome adversity and their championship mentality. After dominating Cameroon in the quarterfinals, they faced a much tougher opponent in Senegal, a team renowned for its physicality and defensive prowess. The match highlighted the mental fortitude and tactical flexibility of the Nigerian team. Their ability to weather the storm during Senegal’s third-quarter resurgence and then regain control in the final period demonstrated their composure under pressure and their unwavering determination to succeed. This resilience will be a crucial asset in the final and beyond, as they prepare to compete against the continent’s best and, potentially, on the world stage.
The 2025 Afrobasket Championship represents a significant milestone in the development of women’s basketball in Africa. The competition has showcased the rising talent and competitive spirit of the participating nations. The success of teams like Nigeria, Senegal, Mali, and South Sudan is a testament to the growing investment in the sport and the increasing opportunities for female athletes across the continent. The tournament serves as a platform for these players to demonstrate their skills and gain valuable experience, further propelling the growth and popularity of women’s basketball in Africa.
Looking ahead to the World Cup qualifiers, the four African representatives face a challenging task. They will be competing against teams from across the globe, including powerhouses from the Americas. The qualification tournaments will be a true test of their abilities and a valuable learning experience. The competition will expose them to different playing styles and tactical approaches, helping them to further develop their skills and strategies. Regardless of the outcome, their participation in the qualifiers will be a significant step forward for women’s basketball in Africa.
The road to the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup is a long and arduous one. For Nigeria’s D’Tigress, their journey began with the Afrobasket Championship, a stepping stone to the global stage. Their impressive performance in the tournament, culminating in a hard-fought victory over Senegal, has secured their place in the World Cup qualifiers. This represents a significant achievement for the team and for women’s basketball in Nigeria. The qualifiers will present a new set of challenges, but D’Tigress has shown the resilience, talent, and determination to compete at the highest level. Their journey is a testament to the growing strength of women’s basketball in Africa and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the continent.
