Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress on Monday July 29 achieved a groundbreaking victory at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, defeating world number 3, Australia, 75-62.
This historic win marks the team’s first Olympic triumph in 20 years, offering a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s Olympic aspirations.
A Turbulent Olympic Journey
D’Tigress’s Olympic journey has been marked by challenges. Their debut in 2004 was hindered by a tough group, featuring world champions like Australia, Japan, and Brazil.
After a series of narrow defeats, the team was edged out, securing only one win against South Korea.
After a 16-year hiatus, they returned in Tokyo 2020, facing another formidable group, including the USA, France, and Japan.
Medal Prospect
Ranked 12th in the world, D’Tigress’s win against Australia has sparked optimism. With upcoming games against Canada and France, analysts believe the team has a chance to make appreciable impact and possibly win a medal.
Boasting talented players like Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, and Elizabeth Balogun, D’Tigress is poised to make a statement.
Can D’Tigress Bite Harder?
With their impressive win against Australia, the question on everyone’s mind is: can D’Tigress record even more upsets?
While facing top-ranked teams in group B, the team’s hunger for victory and exceptional skills make them a force to be reckoned with.
As Nigeria’s Olympic hopes are revitalized, one thing is clear – D’Tigress is a team to watch.
The Road to Victory
The team’s victory against Australia was a testament to their determination and skill.
Led by Coach Rena Wakama (32 years) who is just a year in charge of D’Tigress, expectations have understandably gone higher.
Wakama is the first female coach to ever win an Afrobasket title; helping Nigeria’s 4th consecutive and 6th all-time Afrobasket title.
With Monday’s win, Wakama has also become the first coach to lead Nigeria to a win against a Top 3 ranked team at the Olympics.
She has shown the power of Naija women that when given the chance they can indeed prove their mettle.
Players to Watch
As they push harder in the games ahead, D’Tigress boasts an impressive roster, featuring players with exceptional skills and experience. Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, and Elizabeth Balogun are just a few of the talented athletes who have contributed to the team’s success. With their combined strength and determination, D’Tigress is a force to be reckoned with.
Inspirational Victory
Having endured series of defeats from table tennis to boxing and even in football where the Super Falcons have suffered back-to-back losses,the victory against Australia has had a profound impact on Team Nigeria at the Olympics.
As D’Tigress continues their Olympic journey, they carry the hopes of a nation on their shoulders and hopefully, the other athletes in Paris can also draw inspiration from them to also excel in their various sports.
