The Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has made history by becoming the first African team—male or female—to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball competition. This remarkable achievement is a clear indication of their dedication, hard work, and teamwork.
The team’s journey to this milestone was not without its challenges. Following a defeat to host nation France, D’Tigress bounced back with a stunning upset victory over world number 5, Canada. With Ezinne Kalu contributing 21 points, Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah grabbing 7 rebounds, and Promise Amukamara providing 6 assists, the team secured a 79-70 win. This victory showcased their resilience and skill on the global stage.
This achievement marks a major milestone in the team’s history, dating back to their international debut at the 1974 AfroBasket Women’s Championship in Tunisia. The team has won the Women’s Afrobasket Championship six times, with four consecutive titles from 2017 to 2023. Their most recent championship victories took place in Bamako, Mali (2017), Dakar, Senegal (2019), Yaounde, Cameroon (2021), and most recently, Kigali, Rwanda (2023).
Team captain Amy Okonkwo attributed their turnaround to a crucial half-time discussion that helped them refocus and regain momentum. “I am so proud of us. The last game wasn’t good for us, and even in the first half, we were not doing what we wanted to come out and do. We had a talk with ourselves and realised it was win or go home, and we decided we wanted to stay,” she said.
The Nigerian Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has congratulated the D’Tigress team on their remarkable victory against Canada.
In a statement, Enoh praised the team for their historic achievement, becoming the first African team to reach the Olympic quarterfinals. “Dear D’Tigress, today marks a historic achievement. By becoming the first African team (male or female) to reach the Olympic quarterfinals, you have made a groundbreaking accomplishment,” Enoh said.
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“Despite being ranked 12th, you defeated FIBA’s 3rd and 5th teams, demonstrating exceptional skill. Your success has brought joy to Nigerians everywhere.
As D’Tigress prepares to takes on the United States this Wednesday in their bid to secure a spot in the semi-finals, excitement is palpable and they are eager to continue their quest for excellence.
Their journey has been extraordinary, and achievement not only highlights their hard work but also embodies the African spirit of determination. Their victory proves that with courage, perseverance, and teamwork, anything is possible, and Africa’s sports glory is far from over.
