Rena Wakama: Nigeria’s light in Olympic darkness

Despite Team Nigeria’s disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where they failed to secure a single medal, Coach Rena Wakama emerged as a beacon of hope and pride for the nation with her exceptional leadership of the D’Tigress basketball team.

A Beacon of Hope Amidst Disappointment

Wakama’s remarkable achievements brought smiles to millions of Nigerians disheartened by the country’s lacklustre showing in Paris. At just 32 years old, Wakama masterminded an incredible run for Nigeria, leading D’Tigress to the quarter-finals of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, marking the first time any African nation—male or female—has achieved this feat.

Under Wakama’s guidance, D’Tigress made history with a 75-62 victory over Australia, a stunning win against the world’s third-ranked team. Their journey to the quarter-finals, which included a hard-fought victory over world number five Canada, was a testament to Wakama’s strategic brilliance and the team’s resilience.

Optimism for the Future

Speaking after the defeat to the U.S., Wakama remained optimistic, expressing pride in her team’s performance and a positive outlook for the future of Nigerian women’s basketball.

“The future is bright, but we’ve got to invest in ourselves,” Wakama said. “We need to provide these girls with all the resources and support they need to reach the podium and win a medal. We are capable of it; we have the talent. Everyone on this team is Nigerian-born and raised—we didn’t have to recruit from outside like other teams. We need to invest in the future and in sports.”

Read also: Paris Olympics: D’Tigress’ Rena Wakama named best women’s basketball coach

A Shining Light in a Challenging Olympic Campaign

While Nigeria’s overall Olympic campaign, involving 88 athletes across 12 sports, ended without a medal, Wakama’s success was a shining light in an otherwise difficult outing. This marked the eighth time Nigeria failed to secure a medal at the Olympics since their debut in 1952.

Wakama’s outstanding performance did not go unnoticed. The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) recognized her as the Best Coach of the Paris 2024 Women’s Basketball Tournament, an accolade that underscores her remarkable contributions to the sport.

In addition to Wakama’s recognition, D’Tigress point guard Ezinne Kalu was named to the All-Second Team of the Olympics Women’s Basketball, further highlighting the team’s outstanding performance under Wakama’s leadership.

A Legacy of Excellence

Having made history as the first female head coach of D’Tigress in 2023, Wakama’s achievements extend beyond the Olympics. She previously led D’Tigress to their first Afrobasket title since 1966 and guided them to unprecedented Olympic success. Despite their eventual 88-74 loss to the USA in the quarter-finals, D’Tigress left an indelible mark on the global stage, setting new standards and showcasing their fighting spirit.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Wakama’s leadership and vision have not only brought pride to Nigeria but have also set the stage for future successes in the world of women’s basketball. Her recognition as the Best Coach at just 32 years old is a well-deserved honour, reflecting her extraordinary achievements at Paris 2024.

D’Tigress exceeded expectations by making it to the quarter-finals of the basketball tournament—a feat no other African team has achieved, with their splendid run ended by the United States. The African champions’ outing in Paris was the most significant performance by an African team in history at the Olympic Basketball Tournaments, with Wakama the main protagonist of the unprecedented feat.

Beyond the Olympics

Wakama’s achievements extend beyond the Olympics. She previously led D’Tigress to their first Afrobasket title since 1966. Her impact on Nigerian basketball is undeniable, and her leadership has inspired a new generation of players. While the rest of Team Nigeria struggled, Wakama’s D’Tigress provided a much-needed beacon of hope and pride for the nation.

Presidential Praise

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu applauded Wakama following D’Tigress’ laudable outing at the Olympic Games in Paris.

“President Tinubu states that the recognition of Ms. Wakama, 32, by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), further accents her well-established leadership qualities and dedication to excellence,” Ngelale said. “The President commends the team, the coach, and all those who played a part in the unprecedented feat at the Olympics, enjoining them not to relent or become crestfallen but to remain resilient and determined for greatness,” he added.