We shall continue to make Nigerians proud - Rena Wakama

We shall continue to make Nigerians proud - Rena Wakama

Africa's best female national basketball team, D’Tigress of Nigeria, who landed France yesterday to a warm reception, quickly got of the marks as the Coach Rena Wakama led team held its first training session ahead of the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualification tournament.

Speaking with NBBF media on the team's readiness to face some basketball powerhouses in the tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France, the multiple awards winning Rena Wakama, responded confidently that the team is very focused and excited.

"Our preparations have been intense, and this tournament here in Lyon, is an important part of that process. It gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against strong competition and evaluate where we're as a team.

"The players have shown great commitment, discipline and hunger, so I believe we're moving in the right direction as we prepare for the World Cup in Germany," she remarked. 

Going into the tournament in Lyon, France, the roster for the final 12 players, represents a mix of experience, youth and dynamism, and which she described as a balanced team. 

"What's different this time is the balance we have within the squad. We have a strong core of experienced players who understands the expectations and the culture of D'Tigress, and at the same time, we've integrated some younger talents who bring fresh energy and competitiveness. Tactically, we're also evolving, that's focusing on faster transitions, stronger defensive communication, and better team chemistry," noted.

While acknowledging the huge expectations of the millions of Nigerians home and diaspora ahead the FIBA Women's World Cup Championship, the highly-rated female basketball coach, Wakama remarked that her girls are ready, proud to represent Nigeria and play the game they love.

"With everything going on in the world today, we are proud to have the opportunity to play the game we love. The World Cup qualifiers is the only professional women’s basketball games being played and televised in the world this week. 

"Representing Nigeria means a lot to every player on this roster, and we want to make our supporters proud. They will see a team that fights for every possession, plays unselfish basketball, and never gives up. Our goal is to compete strongly, showcase the growth of Nigerian women’s basketball, and continue building on the legacy of D’Tigress on the global stage," she said confidently. 

Meanwhile, the reigning and record winning Afrobasket champions, who have been pooled to face off against basketball giants, begins their quests for honours on the global stage with its opening game on Wednesday,  March 11, 2026, against Colombia.

The next day, the team faces Korea; followed by subsequent games against Philippines, tournament host France, and Germany, who are billed to host the FIBA World Cup proper later this year, on March 14th to March 17th, 2026, respectively.