Afrobasket: Reps laud D’Tigress, say they’ve brought honour to Nigeria

The house of representatives has congratulated D’Tigress for winning their fourth consecutive FIBA Women’s Afrobasket title. 

The team defeated Senegal 84-74 in the tournament’s final on Saturday.

The victory makes Nigeria the second African country to win the Afrobasket title four times in a row.

In a statement on Sunday, the lawmakers said the triumph demonstrated that women and girls can thrive in every area of human endeavour.

The statement was signed by Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives, and Ekene Adams, chair of the committee on sports.

The legislators also hailed Rena Wakama, D’Tigress head coach, who became the first female coach to win the competition.

“The house of representatives notes with delight the outstanding performance of Nigeria’s female basketball team, D’Tigress, who emerged winners of the just concluded 2023 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket Championship,” the statement reads.

“The historic fourth consecutive win is a testament to the virtues of consistency, diligence, and teamwork, which they have eminently demonstrated in stamping their dominance of the game on the continent. The incredible display of talent and the signature Nigerian ‘can do’ spirit was a delight to watch for all Nigerians and fans of the game across the world. They have brought honour and pride to Nigerians, and we owe them our deepest gratitude.

“We congratulate the entire team for this feat, including Amy Okonkwo, who finished as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. We also celebrate the head coach, Rena Wakama, who made history as the first female to lead a team to win the Afrobasket tournament and the entire management and technical team.

“This development is a testament to the position of the 10th assembly of the house of representatives, that our women and girls can thrive in every area of human endeavour if they are given the enabling environment and requisite encouragement.

“It is an encouragement to every Nigerian child that shunning vices and concentrating on a career pays off in the end. The achievement is a reminder of the possibilities that abound for us as a country when we set aside ethnic and religious differences and work towards a common goal.”