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After a close defeat against the USA in the Paris 2024 Olympic GamesNigerian women’s basketball coach Rena Wakama has made an impassioned plea for greater investment in the country’s sporting infrastructure.
Read also: Paris 2024: Tigers striker Pallas Kunaiyi Akpana proud despite quarter-final defeat to USA
This request comes after Nigeria’s historic victories over powerhouses Australia and Canada, demonstrating the team’s potential on the world stage.
Asked by reporters what message she had for the Nigerians after the loss to the United States, coach Wakama was optimistic and highlighted the team’s untapped potential. “The future is bright,” she began in a firm tone.
“We have to invest in ourselves. We have to give these girls the resources and the support so they can get to the podium and get a medal. We are capable of doing it, we have the talent.”
Coach Rena Wakama highlighted the unique strength of the Nigerian team, noting that all the players on the roster were born and raised in Nigeria, a rarity in international basketball where many teams rely on players with dual nationality.
“All the members of the team are Nigerians,” he stressed. “We didn’t have to recruit anyone from outside like other teams. We are all Nigerians by birth and upbringing.”
However, this sense of national pride and self-reliance is tempered by a pressing need for greater support and infrastructure. Coach Wakama reiterated that while the talent is undeniable, without significant investment, Nigeria risks squandering this golden generation of athletes.
“We need to invest in the future and invest in sport,” he urged, calling on the public and private sectors to step forward and provide the necessary support.
Nigeria’s performance in Paris has captured the hearts of many and ignited hope for what could be a bright future in international basketball. However, as Coach Wakama stressed, for this promise to be fulfilled, a concerted effort will be needed to nurture and develop local talent.
The road to the podium can be challenging, but with the right support, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team could one day be among the best in the world.
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