D’Tigress Triumphs Over Colombia 70-37 in Qualifier Opener

D’Tigress, Nigeria's senior women's basketball team, commenced their FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifier campaign with a commanding 70-37 victory over Colombia at the Astrobal Arena in Villeurbanne, France, on Wednesday. The seven-time African champions, guided by head coach Rena Wakama, quickly established dominance, leading 18-12 after the first quarter and extending their advantage to 34-29 by halftime.

The third quarter saw Nigeria's lead increase to 53-34, and they maintained their intensity to secure a 33-point victory. Nicol Enabosi was instrumental, pulling down 11 rebounds and providing five assists, alongside scoring 10 points.

Victoria Macaulay led the scoring with 13 points, while Ifunanya Okoro contributed with two steals and a layup in the fourth quarter. Colombia struggled to cope with Nigeria's physical pace, with Yuliani Paz scoring seven points and Mabel Martinez adding six.

This victory marks Wakama's 14th competitive win since her appointment in July 2023, extending her record to a 77% win rate in 18 competitive matches.