The Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, is gearing up for a landmark quarter-final clash against the United States at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Head coach Rena Wakama has assured supporters that the team remains composed and unfazed by the pressure of the upcoming high-stakes game.
D’Tigress secured their spot in the quarter-finals after a solid performance in Group B, finishing third behind powerhouse teams France and Australia.
Their victories over Australia and Canada, who are ranked third and fifth in the world respectively, have established D’Tigress as formidable contenders. These wins have demonstrated their potential to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Coach Wakama, in a recent interview, emphasized that the team has no additional pressure facing the United States, the defending champions. She praised the team’s progress and highlighted how their loss to France was a pivotal moment that refocused their efforts.
“I am glad we did have that loss because we were able to get back to what we do best,” Wakama said. “Also, there’s no pressure now on us, and we have shown everyone that we deserve to be playing here.”
This match is especially significant as it marks the first time any African basketball team, male or female, has reached the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games.
