Rena Wakama, the Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has been crowned the Best Female Basketball Coach at the Paris 2024 Olympics. It’s a win that proves something is going right in Nigeria, even if it feels like a rarity.
The International Basketball Federation announced the honor on Sunday evening via X, saying, “Best coach of #Paris2024 Women’s Basketball, Rena Wakama, Nigeria.”
Wakama, just 32, led D’Tigress to their first-ever Olympic quarterfinals, where they triumphed over Canada with a score of 79-70. Their run ended when they fell to the United States, the eventual champions, with a score of 88-74. Despite the setback, D’Tigress made history as the only African basketball team, male or female, to advance to the last 16 at the Olympics.
Wakama’s achievements extend beyond the Olympics. She made history by becoming the first Nigerian female basketball coach to win the women’s Afrobasket title, securing the fourth consecutive win for Nigeria in the tournament. D’Tigress clinched the title with an 84-74 victory over Senegal.
In addition to Wakama’s recognition, the All-Star Five of the Olympic women’s basketball tournament includes A’ja Wilson (USA), Gabby Williams (France), Breanna Stewart (USA), Alanna Smith (Australia), and Emma Meesseman (Belgium). D’Tigress’ point guard, Ezinne Kalu, a three-time Afrobasket champion, earned a spot on the All-Second Team, joining players like Julie Vanloo (Belgium) and Satou Sabally (Germany).
A’ja Wilson was named the MVP of the Women’s Basketball event, while Jade Melbourne (Australia) received the Rising Star award. Gabby Williams took home the Best Defensive Player award.
Wakama’s accolade shines a much-needed spotlight on Nigerian basketball excellence and underscores a significant milestone for the sport in the country.
