D’Tigress Arrive in Lyon for 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, Nigeria women's national basketball team, have arrived in Villeurbanne, Lyon, ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from March 11 to March 17, with several strong international teams set to compete for qualification spots.

Head coach Rena Wakama, alongside her assistants and the 12 selected players, are already preparing intensively for the competition. The team began training shortly after arriving in Lyon as they gear up for the challenging fixtures ahead.

D’Tigress will face tough opponents including France, Germany, Colombia, South Korea, and the Philippines during the qualification campaign.

Key players such as Promise Amukamara, Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, and Sarah Ogoke are expected to play pivotal roles for the African champions as they pursue a place at the global tournament.

Opinion: Another Chance to Prove Africa’s Strength

D’Tigress have consistently demonstrated that African women’s basketball can compete with the best in the world. Their arrival in Lyon is not just about qualification; it is another opportunity to reinforce their reputation as one of the most disciplined and resilient teams in international basketball.

With experienced players and a confident coaching staff, Nigeria’s team has the potential to challenge stronger basketball nations. If they maintain the fighting spirit that made them continental champions, D’Tigress could once again show that African teams belong on the biggest stages of world basketball.