Nigeria’s senior women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, have commenced preparations in earnest for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament after arriving in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France, to a warm reception.
The reigning African champions wasted no time settling in as the team, under the leadership of Head Coach Rena Wakama, held its first training session shortly after arrival, signaling the start of their final preparations for the highly anticipated global qualifying tournament.
Speaking with NBBF Media on the team’s readiness to compete against some of the world’s leading basketball nations, Wakama expressed confidence in her players, emphasizing that the team remains focused, motivated, and determined to make Nigerians proud.
“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 are as a team,” Wakama said.
“The players have shown great commitment, discipline, and hunger. I believe we are moving in the right direction as we continue our build-up toward the World Cup in Germany.”
The multiple award-winning coach also highlighted the balance within the squad, noting that the final 12-player roster combines experience with youthful energy, creating a dynamic and competitive unit capable of delivering on the global stage.
“What’s different this time is the balance we have within the squad. We have a strong core of experienced players who understand the expectations and the culture of D’Tigress, while also integrating younger talents who bring fresh energy and competitiveness,” she explained.
“Tactically, we are also evolving—focusing on faster transitions, stronger defensive communication, and improved team chemistry.”
Wakama further acknowledged the enormous expectations of millions of Nigerian fans both at home and across the diaspora, stressing that representing the country remains a source of pride and motivation for every member of the team.
“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 represent the only professional women’s basketball games being played and televised globally this week,” she noted.
“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.”
Nigeria, the reigning and record-holding FIBA Women’s Afrobasket champions, will begin their quest for qualification with an opening match against Colombia on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
The team will subsequently face Korea the following day before taking on the Philippines, tournament hosts France, and Germany—who are scheduled to host the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup later this year—in matches running from March 14 to March 17, 2026.
With preparations underway and confidence high within the camp, D’Tigress will be aiming to once again demonstrate the strength and growth of Nigerian women’s basketball on the global stage.
