NBBF Releases D’Tigress Preliminary Squad Ahead of Women’s Afrobasket

The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, announced a 20-player provisional squad for D’Tigress, the reigning African champions, ahead of their title defence at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, set to take place from Friday, July 25 to Sunday, August 3, 2025.

The preliminary squad includes: the experienced trio of Power forward Amy Okonkwo, Point guards Precious Amukamara and Ezinne Kalu, who were key contributors to Nigeria’s past Afrobasket triumphs. As well Ifunaya Okoro- (CG (1,2), Elizabeth Balogun-SG/F (2,3), Grace Efosa-SG/F (2,3), Solape Amusan- G/F(2,3) Abiodun Damilola G/F(2,3), Adenike Olayemi-F(3), Nicole Enabosi- F/PF (3,4).

Others include; Pallas Kunayi-PF(3,4),Murjanatu Musa-PF(4),Gift Uchenna- PF(4), Victoria Macaulay-PF/C(4,5), Christabel Ezumah-PF/C (5), Izoje Uche- PF/C (5), Lauren Ebo- C (5),Ugonne Onyiah-C (5), Vera Ojenuwa-C(5) and Blessing Ejiofor-C (5).

Aiming for a historic fifth continental title, after four successive triumphs in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, the team blends experienced players and emerging talents. The NBBF highlighted a focus on continuity and excellence, with the squad set to enter training camp soon to prepare for the tournament.

Nigeria are drawn in Group D with top contenders: Mozambique and Rwanda. The final 12-woman roster will be released after camp evaluations. The team will also participate in the Homecoming Games, exhibition matches to assess players and engage fans, as part of ongoing preparations monitored by the technical crew.