The Nigerian women's national basketball team, known as D'Tigress, has announced its final twelve-player squad for the upcoming FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament, which will be held in France from March 11 to 17, 2026.
The team's selection comes with a sense of legacy and expectation, as they have notably transformed the landscape of women's basketball in Africa over recent years.
Head coach Rena Wakama has largely maintained the core group that drove Nigeria to its remarkable continental success. Eleven of the selected players were integral to the historic victory against the Mali women’s national team in Abidjan, which secured D'Tigress their fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, further solidifying their status as leading figures in African basketball.
The final lineup consists of a mix of experienced leaders and accomplished players crucial to the team's triumphs on both continental and international arenas.
The players chosen for this tournament are: Promise Amukamara, Elizabeth Balogun, Blessing Ejiofor, Nicole Enabosi, Rita Igbokwe, Ezinne Kalu, Pallas Kunayi, Victoria Macaulay, Murjanatu Musa, Sarah Ogoke, Amy Okonkwo, and Ifunaya Okoro.
This list has been narrowed down from an earlier provisional roster of seventeen players announced in February. Notably, Pius Beggi Idubano, Adenike Olawuyi, Grace Efosa, Wandoo Hemba, and Tewogbade Mololuwa did not make the final cut.
D'Tigress have evolved from rivals within the continent to a formidable presence on the global stage over the last decade. Their remarkable achievement in Abidjan, securing their fifth successive title at FIBA Women's AfroBasket, highlights their dominance in African basketball.
The team’s impressive performance has also contributed to elevating Nigeria’s image internationally, showcasing that African basketball can compete effectively with the best around the globe.
Nigeria's journey in the qualifying tournament commences with a challenging schedule against teams from varied basketball backgrounds:
\- March 11: Nigeria vs Colombia
\- March 12: Nigeria vs South Korea
\- March 14: Nigeria vs the Philippines
\- March 15: Nigeria vs France
\- March 17: Nigeria vs Germany
To qualify for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026, scheduled in Berlin, Germany from September 4 to 13, 2026, the top three teams from each group will progress.
For D'Tigress, this qualification process goes beyond just a goal. It represents a chance to continue an impressive era characterized by Nigeria's dominance in Africa and steadily growing reputation on the global stage. With a seasoned squad, the five-time continental champions are expected to arrive in France determined to uphold the pride of African basketball and affirm their legacy of excellence.
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