Nigeria’s D’Tigresses have extended their dominance on the continent with a commanding 83-47 victory over Cameroon to book a place in the semifinals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament.
The six-time champions, who are on a quest for a historic fifth consecutive title, extended their unbeaten streak in Africa to 27 games—a run that dates back to 2015. With this win, Nigeria moved one step closer to matching and potentially surpassing Senegal’s all-time title haul.
Cameroon started brightly, with Jessica Thomas and Maria Ewodo combining to give the Indomitable Lionesses a 4-0 lead. But that momentum was short-lived. Reigning MVP Amy Okonkwo got Nigeria on the scoreboard with a free throw, before Elizabeth Balogun’s jumper gave the defending champions a 5-4 edge.
From there, Coach Rena Wakama’s side seized control, closing the first quarter with an 8-0 run to lead 21-9. Cameroon regrouped in the second quarter and matched Nigeria’s output with 20 points, but still trailed 41-29 at the break.
The third quarter was the turning point, as Nigeria unleashed a devastating 25-2 run that sealed the game beyond doubt. Despite Cameroon edging the final quarter 16-14, it was a mere formality.
Though Okonkwo led all scorers with 18 points in just under 19 minutes, the game was a showcase of collective brilliance. Four D’Tigresses players hit double digits, and every player who clocked at least 10 minutes contributed to the scoreboard.
Nigeria’s forward Murjanatu Musa said, “We played as a team, enjoying the game by doing what we do best. We feel great making it to the semifinals again, and we’ll give it everything to reach the finals.”
Star guard Ezinne Kalu added, “This is the definition of Nigerian basketball: fighting, throwing the first punch, and setting the tone. We’re excited to face Senegal. It’s going to be a great game.”
Cameroon, who secured bronze in 2021, will now battle for fifth place—a possible one-rank improvement over their 2023 performance.
