D’Tigress Surge Into 2025 Women’s Afrobasket Semi-Finals With Commanding Victory Over Cameroon.
Nigeria’s D’Tigress have secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Women’s Afrobasket Championship, delivering a resounding 83-47 triumph over Cameroon in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Thursday night. The defending champions showcased their dominance at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, maintaining their unbeaten streak and edging closer to a historic milestone.
The victory keeps D’Tigress on track to become the first African team—male or female—to claim five consecutive Afrobasket titles. Having won the championship in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, the Nigerian side is now just two wins away from cementing their legacy in African basketball history. Their remarkable run, which includes a 27-game winning streak since their last defeat in 2015, underscores their unrivalled prowess on the continent.
Under the guidance of coach Rena Wakama, D’Tigress displayed exceptional teamwork and depth against Cameroon. All 12 players contributed to the scoresheet, with team captain Sarah Ogoke marking her return from injury with a crucial three-pointer. The Nigerians established control early, overcoming an initial 4-0 lead by Cameroon with an 8-0 run to close the first quarter 21-9. Despite a brief resurgence from the Indomitable Lionesses in the second quarter, Nigeria’s relentless defence and clinical offence ensured a comprehensive victory.
This quarter-final clash rekindled a historic rivalry, with Cameroon having handed D’Tigress their last Afrobasket defeat in the 2015 semi-finals in Yaoundé. Since that loss, Nigeria have been unstoppable, blending experience with emerging talent to maintain their stranglehold on the competition. The win also secures D’Tigress a spot in the World Cup qualifying series, further highlighting their growing influence in global women’s basketball.
Reflecting on the match, Coach Wakama praised her team’s focus and resilience, noting the increasing competitiveness of women’s basketball across Africa. “This is the business end of the tournament, and we know what’s at stake. Cameroon put up a fight, but our players executed our game plan with precision,” she said.
As D’Tigress prepare for their semi-final challenge, Nigerian fans are brimming with pride and anticipation. Social media posts celebrated the team’s decade-long unbeaten run, with many hailing their “surgical precision” and unyielding spirit. The prospect of a fifth straight title has sparked excitement across the nation, as the team continues to inspire a new generation of basketball enthusiasts.
With their sights set on further glory, D’Tigress remain the team to beat in Abidjan. Their journey towards history continues, and Africa watches eagerly as Nigeria’s basketball queens march on.
