Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, have unveiled a 21-player roster ahead of their training camp and WNBA tour in the United States, as preparations intensify for a packed international schedule.
The team will open its tryout camp on April 18 in Los Angeles, where players will fine-tune preparations before a series of high-profile exhibition games against WNBA opposition.
The squad blends experienced internationals with emerging talents. Key players such as Ezinne Kalu, Promise Amukamara, and Victoria Macaulay headline the roster.
Also included are Shay Ijiwoye, Donanu Regina, Jerni Kiaku, Oluchi Okananwa, Gabby White, Nora Ezike, Vivian Iwuchukwu, Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Suzie Rafiu, Danielle Osho, Nicole Enabosi, Maryam Dauda, Rita Igbokwe, Stephanie Okechukwu, Uche Izoje, Vera Ojenuwa, Favour Nwaedoziri, and Blessing Ejiofor.
However, the team will be without captain Amy Okonkwo, who is unavailable after securing a training camp contract with the Dallas Wings. Elizabeth Balogun and Murjanatu Musa also miss out due to club commitments.
Among the standout inclusions is Oluchi Okananwa, who recently committed to representing Nigeria and is set for her senior team debut. Eighteen-year-old Danielle Osho also earns a call-up as she continues her collegiate development, while Stephanie Okechukwu, recognized as the tallest player in NCAA women’s basketball history adds further intrigue.
Uche Izoje is another player to watch after an impressive debut season marked by strong scoring, rebounding, and defensive performances.
D’Tigress will face three WNBA teams during the tour, beginning with the Los Angeles Sparks on April 25, followed by the Minnesota Lynx on April 27, and the Indiana Fever on May 2.
The matchup against the Lynx will be particularly significant, marking only the fourth time a WNBA franchise has faced an international team. Nigeria previously tested itself against elite competition, including the United States national team, at major tournaments.
The tour serves as part of D’Tigress’ preparations for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, set to take place in Berlin from September 4 to 13, with the official draw scheduled for April 21 at Kraftwerk Berlin.
Nigeria enters this phase following a mixed run in March qualifiers, recording wins over Colombia and the Philippines, but suffering defeats to South Korea, France, and Germany. Nonetheless, their World Cup qualification had already been secured after their triumph at the Women’s AfroBasket, with the qualifiers forming part of their broader build-up.
