Preparations for the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket are finally gaining momentum after days of uncertainty, as the Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, begins to regroup in Abuja, www.aclsports.com reports.
As of Thursday night, three players had already arrived at camp, with more expected to join by Friday morning. Team sources have confirmed that approximately 14 players are expected to report for duty, marking the start of what promises to be a crucial phase in the team’s buildup to the continental championship.
Notable among the invited players are seasoned guard Ezinne Kalu, versatile forward Amy Okonkwo, and accomplished wing Elizabeth Balogun. Kalu, a key figure in D’Tigress’ recent continental successes, is expected to arrive on Friday.
Despite earlier concerns surrounding logistics and final squad arrangements, sources close to the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) say the friendly games scheduled for this weekend remain on track, pending last-minute confirmations. The team is set to compete in a Homecoming Tournament against Togo and Kenya, matches designed to sharpen their readiness ahead of the AfroBasket proper.
The 20-player provisional squad released by the NBBF blends experience with youth, including returning veterans like Victoria Macaulay, Precious Amukamara, and Nicole Enabosi, alongside newer faces such as Grace Efosa, Solape Amusan, and Izoje Uche. The mix gives head coach Rena Wakama a range of tactical options as she builds toward a title defense.
Nigeria heads into the 2025 AfroBasket as one of the tournament favourites, having won four consecutive titles (2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023). But with several countries strengthening their programs, the quest for a fifth straight championship will test the Super Falcons’ depth, cohesion, and hunger.
The coming days will be critical as the full squad settles in, training intensifies, and the countdown to Abidjan officially begins.
