D’Tigress Reach 2025 AfroBasket Final While D’Tigers Lose Semifinal to Senegal
2025 AfroBasket: D’Tigress Victorious Over Cameroon But Men’s Team Loses Semifinal Spot to Senegal
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, lit up the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket with another masterclass performance. In a high-stakes semifinal clash in Abidjan, they overcame heavily-favored Senegal 75–68 to seal their spot in the final. Their trademark resolve and late-game composure proved decisive, placing them one win away from an unprecedented fifth consecutive AfroBasket title Premium TimesSportsnow.com.ngFIBA Basketball.
The match began with Nigeria taking control early, building a 22–17 lead by the end of the first quarter and extending it to 43–37 at halftime. Senegal fought back fiercely in the third, outplaying the D’Tigress 21–9 and taking an unexpected lead. But in the final quarter, Nigeria’s depth and experience shone through. Led by Ezinne Kalu’s commanding 19-point effort, combined with driving plays from Amy Okonkwo and balanced scoring across the bench, the D’Tigress turned the tide and sealed their passage to the final The49thStreetPremium TimesFIBA Basketball.
Earlier that night, the men’s team, D’Tigers, suffered a crushing 91–75 defeat to Senegal in their semifinal match, ending their bid for the AfroBasket men’s title. This loss dashed hopes of a double final appearance for Nigeria but still highlighted the nation’s growing prominence in continental basketball Punch News.
The D’Tigress victory was met with praise not just from fans, but from the highest office. President Bola Tinubu hailed their tenacity and applauded head coach Rena Wakama, whose leadership continues to drive the team’s success. He reaffirmed national support as they step into the final, with eyes now set on adding another trophy to their legacy TheTimes.com.ngNaija News.
Their next challenge awaits in the final against Mali or South Sudan, who advanced from the other semifinal. Regardless of the opponent, D’Tigress have already secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers, testament to their consistency and dominance in Africa’s basketball scene Naija NewsChronicle.ng.
For D’Tigers, the men’s side, their semifinal exit underlines the tough competition in the men’s bracket this year. As Nigeria’s players regroup, all eyes will be on whether this defeat provides lessons for future continental dominance.
In summary, while Nigeria’s men faltered, the D’Tigress delivered another fearless performance under pressure, rekindling hope for an elegant victory and reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a powerhouse in African women’s basketball.
