Ezinne Kalu, point guard for Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has voiced strong confidence in the team’s chances of winning a record-breaking fifth consecutive Women’s Afrobasket title at the 2025 edition of the tournament, set to take place in Ivory Coast.

 

Nigeria’s D’Tigress have dominated African women’s basketball in recent years, lifting the continental trophy four times in a row since 2015—an achievement that currently ties Senegal’s historic run from 1974 to 1981. With sights firmly set on the 2025 championship, the Nigerian team is now poised to make history by surpassing that milestone.

 

Speaking during the team’s first official open scrimmage held Sunday in Abuja, Kalu, the 2019 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player, expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation despite limited time.

 

“Preparation so far has been really good. All the girls have been competing hard. We’re super excited to go to the Afrobasket and compete. We’ve been working really hard, so hopefully, all the hard work shows,” she told Brila FM.

 

Kalu acknowledged that the road to victory will not be easy, noting that rival teams have improved and will pose serious challenges. However, she remained upbeat about D’Tigress’ chances and promised spirited performances.

 

“I’m very confident we can win this, but it won’t be easy. All the other teams have good and new players. Every game will be a fight, but we’re ready to battle in every single one,” she said.

 

Kalu also encouraged Nigerian fans to rally behind the team, promising entertainment, grit, and a relentless pursuit of glory.

 

“Nigerians should expect a show. Every game, we’re going to come out, play our hearts out, work hard, and do everything we can to win another championship.”

 

D’Tigress have been drawn into Group D of the tournament, alongside Mozambique and Rwanda. They will kick off their campaign against Mozambique at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan.

 

The 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tips off later this month, with Nigeria aiming not just to defend their crown—but to make history.