Head coach Rena Wakama has expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, as they step up preparations for the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualification Tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France.
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The African champions arrived in France earlier this week and immediately began training as they gear up to face some of the top teams in international women’s basketball.
Speaking to the Nigeria Basketball Federation media team, Wakama emphasized the importance of the tournament in shaping the team’s readiness for the global stage.
“Our preparations have been intense, and this tournament in Lyon is an important part of that process,” Wakama said. “It gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against strong competition and evaluate where we are as a team.”
The highly rated coach also praised the attitude and commitment shown by the players during early training sessions.
“The players have shown great commitment, discipline and hunger, so I believe we’re moving in the right direction as we prepare for the World Cup in Germany,” she added.
Wakama explained that the final 12-player roster features a balanced mix of experienced stars and promising young talents.
“What’s different this time is the balance we have within the squad. We have a strong core of experienced players who understand the expectations and culture of D’Tigress, while the younger players bring fresh energy and competitiveness,” she noted.
She also revealed that the coaching staff has been working on tactical improvements during the preparation phase.
“Tactically, we’re evolving. We’re focusing on faster transitions, stronger defensive communication, and better team chemistry,” Wakama said.
Despite the expectations from Nigerian basketball fans around the world, Wakama believes the team is ready to rise to the challenge.
“Representing Nigeria means a lot to every player on this roster, and we want to make our supporters proud. They will see a team that fights for every possession, plays unselfish basketball, and never gives up,” she stated.
D’Tigress will open their campaign on March 11 against Colombia women’s national basketball team before facing South Korea women’s national basketball team the following day.
They will then take on the Philippines women’s national basketball team, France women’s national basketball team, and Germany women’s national basketball team between March 14 and and March 17.
