Nigeria’s D’Tigress cemented their dominance in African women’s basketball by clinching a record fifth consecutive Women’s AfroBasket title with a commanding 78-64 win over Mali in the final. The victory marks the seventh time Nigeria has lifted the continental trophy, further establishing their legacy on the African basketball scene.
Led by coach Rena Wakama, the team extended their unbeaten run in the tournament to an astonishing 29 games, a streak that has spanned several editions. The win also secured Nigeria a spot at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Germany.
D’Tigress took control early, edging Mali 26-21 in the first quarter. Although the Malians mounted a strong response to level the score 41-41 by halftime, Nigeria regained the lead in the third quarter, finishing 61-56, and never looked back.
While Nigeria sealed their place in the global tournament, Mali, South Africa, and Senegal will battle it out in the playoffs come March 2026 for a remaining World Cup slot.
