August 3, 2025 — Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have advanced to the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship following a hard-fought 75–68 semifinal win over archrivals Senegal in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The tense encounter, which took place on Friday evening, saw two of Africa’s most successful women’s basketball nations go head-to-head for a place in the final. D’Tigress began the game with composure, claiming a 22–17 lead in the first quarter and extending it to a 43–37 advantage by halftime.
Senegal responded fiercely in the third quarter, overturning the deficit and ending the period with a 58–52 lead, shifting momentum in their favour. However, Nigeria’s experience and depth prevailed in the fourth quarter as the reigning champions staged a spirited comeback, capitalising on Senegal’s errors and delivering critical plays under pressure to reclaim control of the game.
Ezinne Kalu led Nigeria’s charge with 19 points, supported by vital contributions from Amy Okonkwo, Promise Amukamara, and Victoria Macaulay. Their combined efforts helped D’Tigress overcome the deficit and close out the game in dominant fashion.
With the victory, Nigeria have now reached the Women’s AfroBasket final for the fifth consecutive time, maintaining their dominance in African women’s basketball. The team is poised to defend their title and capture an unprecedented fifth straight championship when they meet the winner of the second semifinal clash between Mali and South Sudan in Sunday’s final.
The win further cements D’Tigress’ status as Africa’s leading women’s basketball team, showcasing their resilience, tactical discipline, and continued excellence on the continental stage.
