After D’Tigress’ second loss on the US tour, head coach of the Nigerian women’s national basketball team Rena Wakama has maintained confidence in the squad’s long-term prospects and insisted that the team’s development is still on track.
After Nigeria’s 88–79 loss to Minnesota Lynx in Kansas City on Tuesday morning, which came after an earlier loss to Los Angeles Sparks, Wakama, who is now away on WNBA duties with Chicago Sky, responded.
Wakama took to social media platform X to emphasize her belief in the squad’s future following what was largely perceived as an improved performance, even though she wasn’t on the bench and assistant coach Wani Muganguzi led the team during the tour.
“The future is bright!” she wrote.
In a fiercely contested match that saw six lead changes and five ties before the hosts pulled away late, Nigeria pushed the Lynx through all four quarters, trailing just 46–43 at the break.
Despite being undone by lesser shooting efficiency and fewer assists, D’Tigress demonstrated improved attacking balance as Ezinne Kalu led the scoring with 25 points, followed by Gabby White with 16 and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah with 11.
Supporters responded to Wakama’s letter in a variety of ways, with many sharing her optimism while voicing different opinions on the team’s future.
Kenny Bamidele (@BigKensyn), a sports journalist, voiced confidence in the team’s ability to succeed internationally this year.
He wrote, “We dey win the world cup this year.”
Folárìn (@F_II_S) urged a stronger focus on youth, arguing that the present is a chance to move away from more seasoned players.
“Now is the future! Bring in some veterinarians.
Paul Edokpayi (@NigerianWave), a social analyst, emphasized the value of structured development and urged the coaching staff to keep up-and-coming players interested while matching them with more seasoned players to speed up development.
Edokpayi stated, “I hope Coach Rena finds a way to keep these young players engaged and active within the program.”
“It’s important to link kids with veterans as accountability partners, even though some may not yet make the World Cup roster. At this age, development can happen quickly, so investing now will pay off handsomely.
The incorporation of new players is a promising step, according to Cy Is On BlueSky (@CyDieyi).
“You’re right, Coach! I’m thrilled to see the new members of the team!”
JackOfMuch (@Joeleerules) praised the coach’s strategy.
“Coach, I adore what you are doing.”
As the Nigeria Basketball Federation concentrates on long-term growth ahead of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, the current D’Tigress team is part of a larger rebuilding phase. Its 21-player roster is primarily composed of youthful prospects, many of whom are drawn from the American collegiate system.
As Nigeria prepares for the international tournament, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate player combinations and tactical cohesiveness with one game left against the Indiana Fever.
