Nigeria’s US coach Rena Wakama reacts in the women’s preliminary round group B basketball match between Canada and Nigeria during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Pierre-Mauroy stadium in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, northern France, on August 4, 2024. (Photo by Sameer Al-Doumy / AFP)
D’Tigress head coach, Rena Wakama, has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the “life-changing” reward given to the team after their historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket championship victory.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, awarded each player $100,000, a flat, and a national honour — Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
A Gesture of Appreciation
Wakama commended the generous gesture, saying it was a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication.
“We’re so thankful, so, so thankful for Your Excellency President Tinubu,” she said.
“This is life-changing for some of these girls, life-changing for us. This is what we need — renewed hope.”
Wakama credited the team’s unity and passion for making their victory run smooth and successful.
*“Inspiring More Women to Lead”*
As a trailblazer in women’s basketball coaching, Wakama expressed hopes that her achievements would inspire more women to lead national teams.
“It breaks my heart, but I know change has started with me,” she said.
“To be a woman and get an opportunity to coach at this level is a good sign for others.”
Wakama is also an assistant coach at WNBA side Chicago Sky.
The 33-year-old coach urged Nigerians to keep supporting the team ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany. “We’re grateful for this and we look forward to even more support in the future,” she said.
Wakama’s message was one of appreciation and hope for continued support for the team.
Wakama’s words captured the essence of the team’s victory, saying, “When you love your country, your teammates, and the game, everything falls into place.”
