Wakama Credits “Honesty, Trust” For D’Tigress’ Dominance

Rena Wakama, the head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, has opened up about the foundational principles driving the team’s sustained dominance on the continent and beyond.

The Nigerian side, widely known as D’Tigress, has established an era of unprecedented success in African women’s basketball.

Their remarkable run includes securing the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title for five consecutive editions and consistently punching their ticket to the global stage at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.

Currently competing in the final qualifying tournament for the World Cup, D’Tigress kicked off their campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a comprehensive victory over Colombia.

Speaking after the impressive performance, Wakama downplayed any tactical secrets, instead pointing to the strong interpersonal bonds within the squad as the key to their consistency.

“It’s about being honest with my team; we’ve built a level of trust now,” Wakama explained. “I wasn’t worried at all out there. I’m also just really proud of my girls for staying resilient and getting the job done.”

As Africa’s most formidable women’s basketball force, D’Tigress will look to build on this winning start as they continue their quest to secure a spot in the World Cup.