In the world of sports, Nigeria has come under the spotlight recently, as Nigeria’s D’Tigress have once again written history on the African basketball scene by defeating Mali 78–64 to clinch their fifth straight FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title and extend their continental dominance. This is just after a historic win from the female football team last weekend.  What began as a tense dance of power and poise in the opening quarter with Mali edged ahead 26–21; morning into a deadlock of 41–41 at halftime, setting the stage for a defining second half performance from the Nigerian champions.

From the third quarter onward, Nigeria was nothing short of clinical. With their hallmark precision and depth, D’Tigress seized control and built an unassailable lead, effectively closing the door on Mali’s challenge. Their relentless collective effort ultimately delivered a sixty-point win margin that felt every bit the statement of intent it was.

This triumph marks their seventh overall AfroBasket crown and confirms a record five titles in a row, highlighting a golden era in African women’s basketball unlike any before . Under Coach Rena Wakama, the first woman to guide the squad to such heights, the team’s cohesion, discipline, and experience shone through—with veterans like Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, Victoria Macaulay and Nicole Enabosi anchoring the performance throughout.

President Bola Tinubu lauded their efforts, praising the unity, focus and sporting spirit that have elevated the team on the global stage. He reiterated the government’s unwavering support as the team sets its sights on international glory and preparation for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers ([Channels Television.

Their unbeaten run in AfroBasket now stretches back nearly a decade, with over 28 straight wins and no loss since 2015—a dominant streak that reflects consistent excellence and fearless ambition. The victory over Mali was not just a title retake; it was a reaffirmation of Nigerian basketball supremacy on the continent.

With this win, D’Tigress not only lift the trophy but bolster their legacy as Africa’s preeminent women’s basketball team. This generation of players continues to embody resilience and national pride, setting an indomitable tone for African sport. As celebrations echo across Nigeria, dreams now shift toward global competition and the world stage awaits their next roar.