Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will open their campaign at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament with a clash against the Colombia women’s national basketball team on Wednesday in Villeurbanne, France, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
The match is set for 2 PM local time at the Astroballe Arena, as the seven-time African champions begin a demanding five-game schedule from March 11 to 17.
Nigeria arrived in France on Monday and immediately began preparations under head coach Rena Wakama, holding their first training session shortly after landing in Villeurbanne.
The squad blends experience and youth, led by captain Amy Okonkwo. The 12-player roster also includes guards Ezinne Kalu, Promise Amukamara, Sarah Ogoke, Elizabeth Balogun, and forwards Ifunanya Okoro, Murjanatu Musa, Blessing Ejiofor, Nicole Enabosi, Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Victoria Macaulay, and Rita Igbokwe.
Although Nigeria has already qualified for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 after winning the Women’s AfroBasket 2025, the qualifying tournament offers a chance to test themselves against strong opposition ahead of the global competition scheduled in Berlin, Germany, from September 4 to 13.
Coach Wakama emphasized the team’s intense preparation and focus, saying:
“Our preparations have been intense, and this tournament here in Lyon is an important part of that process. It gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against strong competition and evaluate where we are as a team.”
She added that the squad was carefully selected to balance experienced players with emerging talents capable of adding energy and competitiveness.
“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 the culture of D’Tigress, and at the same time we have integrated some younger talents who bring fresh energy and competitiveness.”
Wakama also highlighted tactical improvements, including faster transitions, stronger defensive communication, and better team chemistry, while noting that representing Nigeria remains a strong motivator for the players.
“With everything going on in the world today, we are proud to have the opportunity to play the game we love. The World Cup qualifiers are the only professional women’s basketball games being played and televised in the world this week.”
