Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, kicked off their title defense in emphatic fashion at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament, delivering a crushing 94–40 defeat to Rwanda in their opening Group B match on Wednesday at the BK Arena in Kigali.
The reigning African champions left no room for doubt, showcasing total dominance from the first whistle. D’Tigress outclassed the hosts in every department, leading 22–8 in the first quarter and stretching the advantage to 49–19 by halftime.
Coached by Rena Wakama, the Nigerian side maintained their relentless pressure in the second half, holding Rwanda to just 21 points across the final two quarters, while racking up 45 more of their own. The performance not only underlined their intent to retain the continental crown but also served notice to other contenders.
Standout performances came from the likes of Sarah Ogoke, Ifunanya Okoro, and Nicole Enabosi, whose teamwork and precision shooting dismantled Rwanda’s defense. The team’s defensive strategy was equally ruthless, forcing turnovers and punishing every mistake.
This commanding win sets a strong tone for Nigeria’s campaign as they aim for a fourth consecutive Afrobasket title. The D’Tigress will next face Guinea, with confidence soaring and the target firmly set on making history once again.
