It wasn’t just another victory—it was a statement. With the win, the team stretched their unbeaten AfroBasket run to 29 games, a streak that began in 2015, underscoring an era of dominance rarely seen in team sports on the continent. National honours, monetary rewards, and gift prizes have since flowed their way, but for the players themselves, the greatest reward may be knowing they’ve inspired the next generation.
D’Tigress’ 2025 campaign was built on the perfect blend of tested veterans, emerging stars, and fearless debutants. Each player carved a unique chapter in the team’s success story:
Here are the champions of 2025
Born 22 June 1993 – Hapoel Rishon Le Zion (Israel)
A cornerstone of Nigeria’s backcourt since 2019, Amukamara is renowned for her defensive steel and cool head under pressure. At her third AfroBasket, she averaged 9.8 points, 5.0 assists, and 0.8 steals, often taking on the toughest defensive assignments. Already a three-time champion (2019, 2021, 2025), she also holds the distinction of being the first Arizona State University women’s basketball alum to play in the Olympics.
Ezinne Kalu (#4)
One of the faces of Nigeria’s golden era, Kalu’s four AfroBasket titles since 2017 speak volumes. Known for her pick-and-roll mastery and clutch shooting, she averaged 13.2 points and 4.2 assists in Abidjan, controlling the game’s tempo with trademark poise and infectious energy.
Born 9 September 2000 – Club Charnay Basket Bourgogne SUD (France)
A rising star since her debut in 2023, Balogun’s length and versatility make her a defensive nightmare for opponents. In Abidjan, she contributed 6.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, showing flashes of the star she’s destined to become.
Born 26 August 1996 – Tango Bourges Basket (France)
Okonkwo delivered a scoring clinic in 2025, averaging 14 points and six rebounds while shooting over 50% from the field. A back-to-back AfroBasket MVP (2023, 2025), her inside-out scoring game is a key weapon in Nigeria’s arsenal.
Born 26 March 1997 – C’Chartres Basket Féminin (France)
A bruising forward with a knack for second-chance points, Enabosi chipped in 3.4 points and 2.4 rebounds this year. Since joining in 2021, she’s been part of all three consecutive titles in that span.
Born 12 July 1997 – Magnolia Basket Campobasso (Italy)
Kunayi-Akpannah is D’Tigress’ rebounding engine. In Abidjan, she averaged 4.6 points and 5.2 boards, setting the physical tone in the paint. Her hustle and size make her a constant problem for opponents.
Born 7 August 1990 – Emlak Konut Spor Kulübü (Turkey)
A veteran centre with a sweet mid-range shot, Macaulay returned to the AfroBasket stage after missing 2023. Averaging 9.6 points and 3.4 rebounds, she added a steady presence inside. Titles in 2019, 2021, and 2025 cement her as a trusted big-game performer.
Born 2 February 2005 – University of Georgia (USA)
The youngest in the squad, Ojenuwa may have played limited minutes, but her defensive energy and court vision hint at a bright future. Her selection speaks to Nigeria’s forward-thinking squad development.
Born 2 September 1998 – Alpo Basket (Italy)
At 6’4”, Ejiofor brings imposing size and rim protection. Making her second AfroBasket appearance, she averaged 2.5 points and two rebounds off the bench.
Born 6 July 1999 – Sporting (Egypt)
A guard-forward hybrid, Okoro embraced her role as a defensive stopper, averaging 5.8 points and 1.6 rebounds in her debut tournament. Her energy and adaptability earned praise from coaches.
Born 25 June 1990 – Ferroviário Maputo (Mozambique)
The undisputed veteran leader, Ogoke is the only African player to win five consecutive AfroBasket titles. At 35—and just months after giving birth—she returned to contribute leadership and mentorship in limited minutes, embodying resilience and national pride.
Born 5 May 2000 – Tarbes Gespe Bigorre (France)
A rebounding force, Musa averaged 7.8 boards per game, using her athleticism to dominate inside. From her beginnings with Nigerian Air Warriors to AfroBasket stardom, her rise is an inspiration.
The 2025 D’Tigress side will be remembered not only for their skill and statistics, but for the unity that bridged generations—where seasoned campaigners lifted first-timers, and every player found their moment in the sun.
From Abidjan’s hardwood to the hearts of fans back home, their victory has reinforced a truth long known but never more certain: in African women’s basketball, the crown still belongs to Nigeria.