Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have once again stamped their authority on the continent, defeating Mali 78–64 to retain their crown at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
In a thrilling final clash, Mali came out strong, edging the first quarter 26–21. However, D’Tigress rallied back in the second quarter to level the game at 41–41 by halftime, setting the stage for a fierce second-half showdown.
The Nigerian team, known for their grit and depth, took full control in the third quarter with a dominant display at both ends of the court. They carried that momentum into the final period to seal a commanding 14-point victory.
This historic win marks Nigeria’s fifth consecutive AfroBasket title — a rare feat that cements D’Tigress’ legacy as the most successful women’s basketball team in modern African history.
Capping off the team’s brilliant tournament performance, Nigerian forward Amy Okonkwo was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket Championship, a well-deserved honor recognizing her exceptional impact throughout the competition.
Their triumph not only underscores Nigeria’s continued dominance in the sport but also reflects the sustained development and investment in women’s basketball in the country.
