Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has cemented its dominance on the continent by securing a historic fifth consecutive FIBA AfroBasket title. This incredible achievement not only solidifies Nigeria’s reputation as a basketball powerhouse but also provides a massive inspiration for women and girls across the nation. However, this success masks significant challenges within the country’s basketball ecosystem. Many top players are based abroad due to a lack of well-funded local leagues, modern facilities, and competitive opportunities at home. To build on this winning streak, experts recommend a deliberate strategy focused on investing in grassroots academies, constructing modern facilities, adequately funding professional leagues, and securing media partnerships. With strategic investment and collaboration, Nigeria can transform this golden era of victory into a sustainable pipeline of homegrown talent.
The Conversation
