Amy Okonkwo, the driving force behind Nigeria’s fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, has set her sights on the WNBA. The 28-year-old forward, coming off a dominant performance in the 2025 tournament where she led D’Tigress to victory and earned her second consecutive MVP award, expressed her desire to compete at the highest level of basketball. Okonkwo’s ambition is fueled by a desire for more than just continental accolades, having proven her capabilities both at the AfroBasket and in professional leagues across the globe. Her aspiration to play in the WNBA signifies her unwavering commitment to elevating her game and achieving international recognition.
Okonkwo’s journey to basketball prominence has been marked by dedication and consistent performance. Born in the United States, she has honed her skills playing for various clubs across the world, including a current stint with French top-flight side Bourges. Her experience in the EuroLeague and leagues in Israel, Mexico, and Spain has shaped her into a versatile player, known for her scoring prowess and rebounding ability. The 2025 AfroBasket MVP award solidifies her status as one of the most accomplished players in the tournament’s history, joining an elite group of two-time winners and placing her one award away from the record held by Senegalese legend Mame Maty Mbengue.
The 2025 AfroBasket tournament showcased Okonkwo’s leadership and impact on the court. Averaging 14 points and six rebounds per game with an impressive efficiency rating, she consistently delivered crucial performances, culminating in a commanding 19-point display in the final against Mali. Her inclusion in the All-Tournament Team alongside other standout players like Cierra Dillard, Delicia Washington, Jane Asinde, and Sika Kone underscores her significant contribution to Nigeria’s success. However, Okonkwo attributes the team’s continued dominance to their collective spirit and the leadership of coach Rena Wakama, emphasizing the importance of teamwork over individual achievement.
Rena Wakama, who made history as the first woman to win the AfroBasket as both a player and a coach, also emphasized the team’s remarkable unity and resilience. Facing limited preparation time with only six training sessions before the tournament, D’Tigress overcame formidable opponents through their unwavering focus and determination. Wakama’s astute coaching decisions, particularly in the final against Mali, effectively neutralized the opposing offense while maximizing the strengths of players like Elizabeth Balogun and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah. The team’s ability to thrive under pressure and perform at their best on the biggest stage is a testament to their mental fortitude and commitment to representing their country.
The Nigerian team’s success is not just a testament to individual talent but also to the broader context of women’s basketball in Africa. Their consistent dominance in the AfroBasket, combined with the rise of players like Amy Okonkwo, signals a bright future for the sport on the continent. The challenges they faced, including limited preparation time, highlight the need for greater investment and support to further develop the game. The team’s achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring players and a catalyst for continued growth in African women’s basketball.
Okonkwo’s ambition to play in the WNBA reflects a larger trend of African players seeking opportunities in the world’s premier leagues. The combination of her individual skill, international experience, and proven leadership qualities positions her well to pursue this goal. Her success story, alongside the continued dominance of the Nigerian national team, highlights the growing talent pool in Africa and the potential for even greater achievements in the years to come. The story of Amy Okonkwo and D’Tigress serves as a powerful narrative of talent, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in women’s basketball, both within Africa and on the global stage.
