Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, are just one win away from making history after a hard-fought 75–68 victory over Senegal in the semifinals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket tournament on Saturday.

Played at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Côte d’Ivoire, the encounter saw D’Tigress overcome an early deficit and a third-quarter scare to book their spot in the final their seventh consecutive Afrobasket final appearance.

The win places Nigeria on the verge of becoming the first African team to win five consecutive Afrobasket titles, a feat that would solidify their dominance in women’s basketball on the continent.

Senegal started the match strongly, surging to an 11–2 lead within the opening three minutes. But D’Tigress responded with a spirited 13–0 run to take control, finishing the first quarter ahead 22–17.

The second quarter remained tightly contested, with Nigeria narrowly edging it 21–20, capped by a buzzer-beating three-pointer from Victoria Thiaw her first points of the game to head into halftime with a 43–37 lead.

Senegal came roaring back in the third quarter, dominating play and outscoring Nigeria 21–9 to take a 58–52 advantage into the final period.

But D’Tigress dug deep once again, showcasing their resilience and championship mentality. They outclassed Senegal 23–10 in the fourth quarter to seal a dramatic seven-point win and continue their quest for history.

Nigeria will now face Mali, who defeated South Sudan 78–50 in the second semifinal. The showdown promises to be a thrilling finale, as D’Tigress aim to etch their name in history as five-time consecutive Afrobasket champions.

With depth, experience, and an unshakable drive, D’Tigress remain the team to beat on the continent.