Video: D’Tigress returns to Abuja with AfroBasket trophy after historic fifth consecutive win

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, the D’Tigress, arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday, bringing home the coveted AfroBasket trophy following their victorious campaign in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Video link: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Av3uLCQXJ/

The team clinched their fifth consecutive and seventh overall AfroBasket title after defeating Mali 78-64 in a thrilling final on Sunday night.

The D’Tigress touched down by noon, arriving on two chartered flights that airlifted players and officials.

They received a warm welcome from jubilant fans and top government officials awaiting them at the airport.

However, president Bola Tinubu is expected to host the team upon their arrival in Abuja, continuing a tradition of presidential receptions and commendations for national sports heroes.

Tinubu has earlier praised the D’Tigress for their resilience, exceptional skills, and unity, describing their back-to-back victories as a source of tremendous national pride and a testament to Nigeria’s growing dominance in African basketball.

The president underscored the team’s inspirational role for young Nigerian women and lauded Head Coach Rena Makama and the technical staff for their leadership.

He assured the federal government’s continued support as the team prepares for the upcoming FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers.