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The senior Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigresahave named a roster of 21 players for training camp ahead of their highly anticipated friendly matches against WNBA rivals later this month.
Head coach Rena Wakama has assembled a balanced team that combines experienced players with exciting emerging talents as the African champions prepare for a historic series against top American teams.
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Among the notable names in the team are experienced internationals such as Ezinne Kalu, Promise Amukamara and Victoria Macaulay, who played key roles in Nigeria’s dominance on the continent.
The squad also offers opportunities to a new generation of players, including Oluchi Okananwa, Stephanie Okechukwu, Uche Izoje and Danielle Osho, who will be eager to make their mark on the national team set-up.
Complete training camp roster
Promise Amukamara, Shay Ijiwoye, Donanu Regina, Jerni Kiaku, Ezinne Kalu, Oluchi Okananwa, Gabby White, Nora Ezike, Victoria Macaulay, Vivian Iwuchukwu, Pallas Kunayi-Akpanah, Suzie Rafiu, Danielle Osho, Nicole Enabosi, Maryam Dauda, Rita Igbokwe, Stephanie Okechukwu, Uche Izoje, Vera Ojenuwa, Favor Nwaedozi, Blessing Ejiofor.
WNBA friendly schedule
D’Tigress will face a trio of WNBA teams in what promises to be a tough test of her quality and depth:
vs Los Angeles Sparks – April 25
vs. Minnesota Lynx – April 27
against Indiana fever – May 2
Notable absentees
Captain Amy Okonkwo is unavailable after earning a training camp contract with the Dallas Wings. Similarly, Elizabeth Balogun (linked with Toronto Tempo) and Murjanatu Musa are also absent, likely due to club commitments.
Building towards the world stage
The upcoming friendlies are expected to serve as crucial preparation for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026, where Nigeria will attempt to further cement their growing reputation on the world stage.
Beyond the results, the series offers Wakama a valuable opportunity to evaluate the team’s depth, integrate new players and fine-tune tactics against elite competition.
