The Nigeria Basketball Federation has named a 20-player provisional squad as the country’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, prepares to defend its title at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament in Ivory Coast.
The list, announced by the federation on Wednesday, features a strong mix of seasoned champions and promising young talents, including many who were part of Nigeria’s triumphant campaign at the 2023 edition of the competition in Kigali, Rwanda.
Leading the squad are veterans Ezinne Kalu and Promise Amukamara, who have remained key figures in the team’s success over the years.
Turkish club Besiktas star Amy Okonkwo also retains her place in the team, alongside Nicole Enabosi and Lauren Ebo.
After a significant absence from international action, Victoria Macaulay makes a return to the national set-up. Meanwhile, newcomer Grace Efosa earns her first call-up, and Solape Amusan is invited for just the second time under coach Rena Wakama’s leadership.
“This is a team of fighters,” head coach Wakama said. “We’ve retained the core of our champions, but we’re also opening up space for emerging talents who have shown great promise and discipline. Our goal remains the same — to keep raising the bar in African women’s basketball.”
Other regular names on the roster include Pallas Kunaiyi, Murjanatu Musa, and Elizabeth Balogun. Also listed are Ifunaya Okoro, Olawuyi Adenike, Christabel Ezumah, Vera Ojenuwa, Izoje Uche, Gift Uchenna, Ugonne Onyiah, Blessing Ejiofor, and Abiodun Damilola Yusuf.
As the reigning African champions, D’Tigress are eyeing a historic fifth consecutive continental title when they step onto the court in the Francophone West African country this summer.
“We understand the pressure that comes with being champions,” said team captain Ezinne Kalu.
“But we’re motivated, and the unity in this group gives us confidence. We’re not just playing for another trophy — we’re playing for pride, for Nigeria.”
The final squad will be trimmed ahead of the tournament following the training camp, which is expected to open in the coming weeks.
