D’Tigress will now meet familiar rivals, Senegal, who edged out hosts, Côte d’Ivoire earlier in the day.
By Kehinde Okeowo
D’Tigress of Nigeria crushed the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon
83-47 to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket on Thursday night in Abidjan, Cote d’ivore.
Cameroon had a bright start, opening the game on a 4-0 run, but Nigeria fought back instantly, went up 7-4, and never looked back.
Amy Okonkwo racked up 15 points and 5 rebounds for the six-time and defending champions which ensured they led 36-18 in the first half.
Victoria Macaulay then brought a spark
off the bench, combining presence in the paint with offensive efficiency, as D’Tigress’ strength in depth was again on full display.
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With more than two players hitting double figures for the third consecutive game, Nigeria ended the.third quarter with a 66-31 lead.
Okonkwo finished with the game with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist, while point guard, Ezinne Kalu orchestrated the offense with grace and grit, dishing out five assists.
In addition, Nicole Enabosi got 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists, Victoria Macaulay contributed 12 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 2 blocks and Elizabeth Balogun chipped in with 11 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block, to ensure Nigeria emerged victorious.
With the win, the D’Tigress progressed to the semi-finals, where they will meet familiar rivals Senegal, who edged out hosts Côte d’Ivoire earlier in the day.
Meanwhile, regardless of the outcome of semi-final games, all four semi-finalists, Nigeria, Senegal, Mali, and South Sudan , have officially booked their spots in the FIBA 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournaments.
