Rena Wakama Confident as D’Tigress Prepare for 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Head coach Rena Wakama has expressed confidence in her team as Nigeria women's national basketball team prepare to compete in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualification tournament.

The African champions arrived in Villeurbanne, Lyon on Monday ahead of the competition, which will see several top international teams battle for qualification spots.

Wakama had earlier announced a 12-player roster for the tournament, with the team already intensifying preparations following their arrival in France. D’Tigress will begin their campaign with a match against Colombia on Wednesday.

Speaking to the Nigeria Basketball Federation media team, Wakama described the tournament as a vital opportunity for the team to measure their progress against strong opposition.

“Our preparations have been intense, and this tournament here in Lyon is an important part of that process. It gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against strong competition and evaluate where we are as a team,” Wakama said.

Apart from Colombia, D’Tigress will also face Korea, the Philippines, France and Germany during the qualification tournament.

Opinion: A Crucial Test for African Champions

For D’Tigress, the qualifiers in Lyon represent more than just another tournament—it is a chance to reaffirm their dominance in African women’s basketball while proving they can consistently compete on the global stage.

Under Rena Wakama, the team has developed a reputation for discipline, teamwork and resilience. Facing strong basketball nations like France and Germany will provide valuable insight into the areas where the team must improve.

If D’Tigress maintain their competitive spirit and tactical organisation, the tournament could strengthen their confidence and prepare them for even bigger international challenges ahead.