Nigeria’s D’Tigress show promise ahead of FIBA World Cup

D’Tigress head coach Rena Wakama says she is confident her team is ready for the FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany, later this year, even though they had some close losses in their recent qualifying matches in Lyon.

Nigeria lost their final game 81–73 to Germany on Tuesday at the Villeurbanne Sports Arena. Despite the defeat, Wakama said the team learned important lessons.

The African champions finished the tournament with two wins and three narrow losses against South Korea, France, and Germany.

Elizabeth Balogun scored 15 points, with 3 rebounds and 1 assist, while Musa Mujarnatu added 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. The match was also the last international game for Sarah Ogoke, who has now retired.

Wakama said the tournament helped the team prepare for the World Cup. She noted that the players stayed competitive and improved together, especially from the games they lost.

She added that the team needs to start games better and make smarter decisions during key moments. She said they will review their performances and work on improving their energy.

Meanwhile, Victoria McCaulay was named among the best players of the tournament (All-Star Five).

The 16 teams that will play in the World Cup include host Germany, Nigeria, Australia, USA, Belgium, France, Spain, South Korea, China, Italy, Mali, Czechia, Turkey, Japan, Hungary, and Puerto Rico.