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By Joe Apu
Reigning champions Nigeria continued their dominance on the continent with a hard-fought 75-68 victory over Senegal in the semi-finals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan on Saturday night.
In a thrilling contest at the Palaise des Sports, the Nigerian side, led by head coach Rena Wakama, battled through a turbulent second half to secure their place in a fifth consecutive final.
The game swung back and forth, with Nigeria taking early control through a 22-17 first-quarter lead and maintaining a five-point advantage at halftime after a 21-21 second quarter. However, Senegal roared back in the third, outscoring Nigeria 21-9 to throw the contest wide open.
With just over three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, scores were tied at 65-65 following a clutch three-pointer from Nigeria’s Ezinne Kalu. Senegal briefly reclaimed the lead through Madjiguene Sene, but Nigeria responded swiftly as Victoria Macaulay sank a crucial hook shot to put the D’Tigress ahead for good.
From that point, Nigeria tightened their defense and closed out the game with authority, outscoring Senegal 23-10 in the final period.
Ezinne Kalu starred for Nigeria with 19 points, 3 assists, and an efficiency rating of 18, while Victoria Macaulay and Amy Okonkwo also played pivotal roles down the stretch. Despite an impressive 26-point, 7-rebound effort from Senegal’s Cierra Dillard, the Lionesses fell short.
The win marks a bittersweet moment for Senegalese coach Otis Hughley Jr., who previously led Nigeria to two AfroBasket titles before switching allegiance.
Nigeria will now aim for a record-extending sixth AfroBasket Women’s title as they prepare for the final.
