D’Tigress are in a rebuilding process –Wakama
Rena Wakama, the head coach of the female basketball team of Nigeria has told those care to listen that D’Tigress are in a rebuilding stage after their dismal outing at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup taking place in Berlin, Germany.
D’Tigress finished winless in Group B (0–3), having previously suffered losses to South Korea (99–81) and Hungary (71–67), which already eliminated them from knockout contention prior to their 111-56 loss to France in the team’s final Group game.
According to Wakama, the reality of where the D’Tigress is today is that there are a whole lot of young players being injected into the team at the moment to ensure a solid foundation for the future of the team.
She also took time out to praise the impressive performances of younger players, particularly Grace Efosa-Aguebor and Maryam Dauda who gave a good account of themselves at the tournament despite their first round exit.
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“The reality of where we are today is that we are in a rebuilding process. I think connectivity is a big thing for myself, my team, my staff. We can’t rely on two years ago success. Who we are today, we are still figuring that out. I know we will,” Wakama said.
“I am most proud of our fight. I was super proud of the fight specifically even today. Grace Efosa played about 20 minutes and gave us 15 points. Maryam, these are names you guys will hear in the future. I threw my young ones in the fire and they responded for me, so I am super proud of them.”
Wakama also disclosed that scouting for more talent is needed to ensure the best players put on the colours of Nigeria especially with the 2028 Olympics looming large.
“I think it starts with who we’re getting in these uniforms, just making sure that I’m continuing to put the best talent that Nigeria has to offer in these uniforms, and it comes with preparations. We had a great preparation, but I think there’s another level we have to get to in these preparations.”
Following the D’Tigress poor performance in Germany, the Nigeria basketball Federation (NBBF) is expected review the team’s performance, and seek improvements where needed ahead of future tournaments.
