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Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has cemented its place in history by climbing to 8th position in the latest Fédération Internationale de Basketball (FIBA) Women’s World Rankings, making them the highest-ranked African team in history.
The rankings, released on Thursday, August 14, 2025, saw Nigeria move up three spots from 11th to 8th with 640.1 points, a significant achievement for African basketball on the global stage.
Speaking on the historic ranking, team captain Upe Obaji said, “This is a moment of pride not just for us, but for the entire African continent. We have shown that dedication, teamwork, and perseverance can take us to the top. Being the only African team in the top 10 globally is a dream realized.”
Coach Otis Hugh added, “Our players have worked relentlessly over the years. This ranking reflects their commitment, resilience, and belief in Nigerian basketball. We are setting new standards and inspiring young athletes across the continent.”
D’Tigress achieved this milestone following their record-breaking performance at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, where they secured a fifth consecutive continental crown.
The team defeated Senegal 78–64 in the final at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, marking their seventh overall AfroBasket title. This unbeaten streak in the tournament now extends to 29 games since 2015, demonstrating their dominance in African women’s basketball.
The current FIBA Women’s World Rankings see the United States at the top with 880.9 points, followed by Australia (719.6), France (719.2), China (712.7), and Belgium (702.1). Spain, Canada, and Nigeria fill the remaining top-eight positions, highlighting Nigeria’s rise into an elite global bracket.
FIBA President Hamane Niang praised the Nigerian squad, saying, “D’Tigress’ achievement is monumental. They are proof that African teams can compete and excel at the highest levels of international basketball.”
The team’s success comes at a critical moment, as African women’s basketball gains greater visibility and support. Their achievements are encouraging local leagues, improving grassroots programs, and inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue sports professionally.
Obaji emphasized, “We hope young girls across Nigeria and Africa see this as proof that they can achieve greatness through hard work and discipline. Our journey is far from over, and we aim to keep pushing boundaries.”
As Nigeria celebrates this unprecedented feat, the D’Tigress continue to prepare for upcoming international tournaments, aiming to solidify their top-10 status and challenge the traditional basketball powerhouses.
Their rise represents not only sporting excellence but also the potential of African sports on the world stage.
Nigeria’s D’Tigress now stand as a symbol of resilience, determination, and continental pride, proving that Africa can compete with the best in the world.
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