Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have made history once again, defeating Mali 78–64 in a gripping final to win their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket championship a feat never before achieved by any African nation.
The win also marks Nigeria’s seventh AfroBasket title overall, firmly solidifying their dominance as the undisputed queens of African basketball.
The game, held in Kigali, Rwanda, saw the Nigerian side overcome a strong Malian team with sheer grit, discipline, and tactical brilliance. The victory not only extends their reign on the continent but also cements an unbeaten streak of 29 consecutive matches, a run that has been unbroken since 2015.
All hail the Queens of Africa… They always come through for the motherland!” Read a message celebrating the win on @makingofchamps X page as jubilation poured in from fans and officials alike.
D’Tigress began their title-winning streak in 2017 and have since lifted the AfroBasket trophy in 2017 (Bamako), 2019 (Dakar), 2021 (Yaoundé), 2023 (Kigali), and now again in 2025, with all victories coming in emphatic style.
The team, coached by Rena Wakama—the first female head coach to win the title in 2023—has emerged as a symbol of consistency, pride, and excellence in Nigerian sports.
Their back-to-back wins also reinforce Nigeria’s place on the global basketball stage, with several players now plying their trade professionally in Europe and the WNBA.
The Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), sports stakeholders, and government officials are expected to honor the players upon their return. In the past, D’Tigress’ continental victories have often sparked nationwide celebrations and calls for greater support for women’s sports in the country.
More reactions are expected in the coming hours as Nigeria basks in the glory of this historic win.
