The 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Kigali, Rwanda, has been a showcase of talent and passion, with 12 exciting teams competing for the coveted title.
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Among them, one figure stands out as a true champion in every sense – Rena Wakama, the head coach of the Nigeria women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress.
As the only female head coach in the competition, Rena’s journey from a talented player to a trailblazing coach has captivated hearts and minds, making her an inspiration for aspiring athletes and women in sports across Africa.
Born in America and raised with a strong connection to her Nigerian roots, Rena’s early life revolved around basketball.
She represented Nigeria as a formidable international basketball player, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate today.
After graduating from college in 2014, Rena was with D’Tigress during the 2015 AfroBasket in Cameroon, marking her transition from player to coach.
Her passion for growth extended beyond the court, as she pursued academic excellence, earning a degree in therapeutic recreation from Western Carolina and an MBA from Manhattan.
Venturing into coaching was a natural progression for Rena, who found her place as an assistant coach at Stony Brooks University in the United States.
Drawing from her experiences as a player and insights gained as a coach, Rena embraced her calling as the head coach of D’Tigress on June 30, following her appointment by the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF).
Taking on the biggest task in Africa’s women’s basketball, Rena was determined to continue the team’s legacy of success as the reigning African champions.
Under Rena’s guidance, D’Tigress showcased their dominance in the sport at the tournament. In their first game, they defeated DR Congo 69-35, and on July 30, they secured an early passage into the last eight by beating Egypt 83-65 at the BK Arena.
Rena’s strategic brilliance and leadership inspired the team, as they triumphed in a fiercely contested fourth quarter, sealing the game 83-65.
Speaking about Rena’s impact, D’Tigress forward, Amy Okonkwo, said: “Everything the coach says motivates us. We came for the win, and we knew we had a target painted on our backs. We have a standard that we play to, and we’ve been trying to establish a new standard with the new coach.
We stepped on the court for each other and we’re ready to play for each other and for the country.” Rena’s presence on the sidelines, guiding and encouraging her players, has been a sight to behold, and the team’s chemistry and determination flourished under her mentorship.
Beyond her tactical acumen, Rena serves as a symbol of empowerment for aspiring athletes and women in sports across Africa. Her journey from a talented young girl in Rivers State to the head coach of the reigning African champions is truly inspiring.
Rena’s passion for basketball, dedication to personal growth, and ability to guide and mentor the next generation of athletes have made her a role model in every sense.
As the 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket continues to unfold, Rena Wakama’s remarkable journey and her impact on women’s basketball will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate with sports enthusiasts and readers alike.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with talent, dedication, and determination, one can rise above challenges to achieve greatness and become a trailblazer for others to follow.
