D’Tigress, the Nigerian women’s basketball team, continued their impressive performance in the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket as they secured their 22nd consecutive win in the tournament since 2015.
Despite facing a four-point deficit and losing the first two quarters, they managed to triumph over Mozambique with a final score of 59-52 in the quarterfinals.
Led by the outstanding performance of Amy Okonkwo, who scored 17 points and grabbed six rebounds, and Elizabeth Balogun, who added 12 points and six rebounds, D’Tigress showed great determination and resilience. They rallied in the last two quarters, outscoring their opponents 18-10 and 12-9, to secure the hard-fought victory.
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Coach Rena Wakama’s starting lineup, comprising Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Okonkwo, Balogun, Sarah Ogoke, and Blessing Ejiofor, played with tenacity and teamwork. Although Mozambique made a strong comeback during the first quarter, D’Tigress regrouped and showcased their strength, dominating the later stages of the game.
With this win, Nigeria advances to the semifinals of the 2023 FIBA AfroBasket, where they will face the hosts, Rwanda. The team’s last loss in the tournament dates back to 2015, against Cameroon. Coach Wakama expressed confidence in her team’s abilities and their readiness to face Rwanda in the upcoming match.
D’Tigress’ outstanding rebounding and determination on both ends of the court have been key factors in their success, and they aim to carry this momentum forward as they continue their quest for the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title.
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