Nigeria’s D’Tigress Gears Up for Crucial Quarter-Final Match
The Nigerian women’s national basketball team, known as the D’Tigress, is making waves at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament. The event is being held at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Among the key players joining the team is four-time African champion Sarah Ogoke, a veteran shooting guard who has finally arrived to bolster the squad ahead of the critical knockout stages.
Ogoke, 35, is set to make her return to competitive action after several months away from the court following the birth of her son in late 2024. Her presence is expected to provide valuable experience and depth to the team, especially as they prepare for the quarter-final match on Thursday. This will mark her first major tournament since the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Belgium last year.
Her absence during the round-robin phase sparked some questions, particularly when she missed the traditional media day activities and the group games. However, her arrival has been met with excitement, as it adds a seasoned player to the lineup. Nigeria secured a strong start in the group stage, defeating Rwanda 92-45 in their opening game and narrowly beating Mozambique 60-55 in their second match.
Ogoke’s inclusion is a significant boost for head coach Rena Wakama’s team. As one of the most experienced players in the squad, she brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership that could prove crucial in the high-stakes knockout rounds. A recent training video she shared on social media suggested that she is fully committed to a swift and determined comeback.
With a career spanning over a decade, Ogoke has become a cornerstone of the D’Tigress. She has participated in seven FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournaments since her debut in 2011, contributing to four championship titles. These victories were achieved in Mali (2017), Senegal (2019), Cameroon (2021), and Rwanda (2023). Her consistent performance and dedication have made her a role model for younger players.
Nigeria’s current success at the tournament is impressive. They are riding a 26-game unbeaten streak at the AfroBasket, which began with a third-place playoff victory over Angola in the 2015 edition held in Cameroon. Their last defeat at the tournament came against the eventual hosts and finalists that same year. A win in today’s quarter-final would secure a semi-final berth and bring them closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.
As the competition intensifies, the D’Tigress will rely heavily on the experience and skill of players like Ogoke. With her return, the team is well-positioned to challenge for another AfroBasket title. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating how the team will perform in the upcoming matches, especially with the added strength of a seasoned player who has proven her ability to deliver under pressure.