AfroBasket 2025 Semifinal: Senegal Reflects on Painful Loss to Nigeria
In a gripping semifinal clash at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, Nigeria’s D’Tigress edged past Senegal 75–68 to book their place in a fifth consecutive final2. But while Nigeria celebrated, Senegal was left to reflect on what might have been.
Senegal, led by former Nigeria coach Otis Hughley Jr., mounted a fierce challenge against the reigning champions. After trailing by six at halftime, the Senegalese stormed ahead in the third quarter, taking a surprising 58–52 lead. Their star guard Cierra Dillard was electric, scoring 26 points on 8-of-11 shooting.
Yet in the final stretch, Nigeria’s experience and composure proved decisive. Ezinne Kalu’s late steal and clutch plays turned the tide, helping D’Tigress reclaim control and seal the win.
Coach Otis Hughley Jr. expressed pride in his team’s effort:
‘This is our first step with this group. I thought we fought hard and gave ourselves a chance to win, but a few discouraging possessions made a difference. We played a really experienced team… but our ladies challenged them. We had nine players without AfroBasket experience. We did something monumental by challenging the champions.’
Cierra Dillard, reflecting on the final moments, shared her disappointment:
‘I think the turning point was Kalu’s last steal. Besides that, we had some empty possessions in the fourth quarter that I wish we could take back. I wish I could take back my last three. I am disappointed in myself and my performance in pushing my team. I should have shown better leadership.’
Despite the heartbreak, Senegal’s performance earned respect across the continent. Their fearless display against Africa’s most dominant team signals a promising future—and a squad that’s only just begun its journey.
