Nigeria’s women basketball team, D’Tigress, are set for a high-stakes semifinal encounter against Senegal at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan today, following their dominant 83-47 quarterfinal victory over Cameroon.
The defending champions extended their unbeaten tournament run to 27 games on Thursday, securing Africa’s final slot for the 2026 FIBA World Cup qualifiers in the process. Their next challenge comes against familiar foes – a Senegal side now coached by their former tactician Otis Hughley.
Head coach Rena Wakama acknowledged the emotional dimension of facing their ex-mentor but insisted her squad remains focused on their title defense mission. “It will definitely be emotional for some, but we know our mission here,” Wakama stated after the Cameroon win. “Senegal will bring physicality, but we’re prepared.”
Senegal advanced with a tense 66-60 win over hosts Ivory Coast, setting up a West African derby with added intrigue. Nigeria’s players expressed confidence ahead of the clash, with forward Murjanatu Musa emphasizing their team-first approach: “We’ll do our thing and see what happens.”
Point guard Ezinne Kalu highlighted D’Tigress’ trademark intensity: “This is Nigerian basketball – fighting, setting the tone, bringing energy.” The six-time champions now stand one win away from becoming the first team to claim five consecutive AfroBasket titles, which would break the current record they share with Senegal.
Today’s winner will face either Mali or South Sudan in Sunday’s final, as Africa’s basketball powerhouses continue their pursuit of continental glory. The semifinal tips off at 6pm local time at Palais Des Sports de Treichville.
