D’Tigress to launch title defense against Rwanda in Afrobasket 2025 opener

Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, the D’Tigress, will begin their quest for a historic fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s Afrobasket title with a Group D opener against Rwanda on Saturday, July 26 at the Palais des Sports Treichville in Abidjan.

The reigning African champions, who lifted the trophy in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, are entering the 2025 edition as the undisputed powerhouse of the continent. With a legacy of dominance and a roster brimming with experience and emerging talent, Nigeria is widely tipped to go all the way once again.

Following the opener against Rwanda, the D’Tigress will face Mozambique on Monday, July 28, as they aim to top the group and secure direct qualification to the quarter-finals.

Group D Fixtures (Nigeria):

July 26: Nigeria vs Rwanda

July 28: Nigeria vs Mozambique

The tournament, which runs from July 26 to August 3, features 12 nations across four groups. Group winners advance directly to the quarter-finals, while second and third-placed teams enter a playoff round for the remaining spots.

With the countdown underway, all eyes are on the D’Tigress as they prepare to defend their crown and continue their reign as Africa’s queens of the court.