Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, have once again shown their dominance on the African continent after pulling off a dramatic 75–68 comeback victory against Senegal in the semi-finals of AfroBasket 2025.
The win, secured on Saturday in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, marks Nigeria’s fifth consecutive appearance in the tournament final and extends an incredible unbeaten run that has lasted for a decade.
Trailing by eight points at the start of the fourth quarter, D’Tigress rallied in spectacular fashion to overturn the deficit and close out the game with a commanding performance. The victory is their 28th consecutive win in the AfroBasket tournament — a run that began in 2015 and has yet to be broken.
With the final whistle, Nigeria not only clinched a place in Sunday’s final but also put themselves in prime position to win a record fifth consecutive AfroBasket title. D’Tigress have become the undisputed queens of African women’s basketball, and Saturday’s win against Senegal — Africa’s most decorated team in women’s basketball — further cements their legendary status.
D’Tigress: A Battle of Giants
Senegal, who have won 11 AfroBasket titles in their history, came into the game determined to break Nigeria’s grip on the tournament. Their aggressive defense and efficient ball movement saw them take a significant lead in the third quarter. By the start of the final period, they were up by eight points and looked poised to pull off an upset.
However, the Nigerian team, known for their resilience and mental toughness, did not panic. Led by their experienced core and backed by a deep bench, D’Tigress intensified their defense, forcing turnovers and converting fast-break opportunities. Key three-point shots and dominant rebounding helped Nigeria claw their way back into the game and eventually take control.
Ten Years of Dominance
Nigeria’s reign at AfroBasket began in earnest in 2017 when they claimed their third continental crown. They followed it up with titles in 2019 and 2021, and despite administrative turbulence in recent years, the team clinched a fourth consecutive title in 2023. This year, they are on the verge of making history with a fifth straight championship.
Saturday’s performance against Senegal was a reminder of the team’s championship DNA — a blend of defensive intensity, clutch shooting, and composure under pressure. It is no coincidence that D’Tigress haven’t lost a game in AfroBasket competition since 2015.
Their dominance is not just about talent but also about consistency, chemistry, and a culture of winning that has been built over the years through local and diaspora contributions.
One Step Away from History
Nigeria will face the winner of the second semi-final between Mali and South Sudan in the final scheduled for Sunday, August 3. Both teams are formidable opponents, but D’Tigress will enter the final as clear favorites, regardless of who emerges.
Mali, who finished second in the 2021 and 2023 editions, could set up a third final clash with Nigeria in recent years. South Sudan, on the other hand, are the surprise package of the tournament, making a deep run on their debut and seeking to upset the traditional powers.
For Nigeria, Sunday’s final is more than just another match — it’s a chance to make history by becoming the first team to win five AfroBasket titles in a row. With the form they’re in and the mentality they’ve shown, few would bet against them.
As the sun sets on Abidjan, D’Tigress stand on the brink of immortality in African basketball. One more win, and the queens of the court will reign supreme once again.
