The 2024 Olympics has come and gone, but some of its experience still leaves a sweet feeling in our heart. one of such feeling, is Rena Wakama, head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, being crowned as the Best Coach of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
D’Tigress is Nigeria’s Female basket ball team, which is currently coached by 32 years old Rena Wakama, Rena is not only the first female Nigerian basketball coach to lead the team but also one of the youngest coaches in Olympic history. Under her guidance, D’Tigress reached new heights, advancing to the Olympic quarterfinals for the first time in their history.
D’Tigress made a strong impression from the beginning, defeating the Opals of Australia, who were ranked third in the world, with a stunning 75-62 victory on the opening day. This victory marked their first Olympic game win in 20 years, following their 68-64 triumph over South Korea in Athens 2004.
Their winning streak continued as they upset fifth-ranked Canada with a 79-70 score, making history as the first African team to reach the Olympic quarterfinals and secure two wins at the Games.
Although their impressive run ended in the quarterfinals against the United States, D’Tigress fought fiercely until the final whistle.
FIBA recognized Wakama’s leadership as a crucial element in Nigeria’s unprecedented success, describing it as “the most impactful performance by an African team in Olympic Basketball Tournament history.” They further added, “One of the main drivers of Nigeria’s unprecedented success was the leadership of Coach Re Rena Wakama.”