Rena Wakama makes historic victories with Nigeria’s D’Tigress

In just one year, 32-year-old Nigerian-American Rena Wakama has transformed D’Tigress, Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, into a formidable force on the global stage. Since assuming leadership last year, Wakama has achieved several historic milestones.

Key Achievements

– First Female Coach to Win an Afrobasket Title: Rena Wakama made history by becoming the first female coach to lead a team to victory in the Afrobasket championship.

– Olympic Triumph: Under her guidance, Nigeria secured its first victory over a top 3 ranked team, defeating Australia at the Olympics, marking a significant achievement for the team.

– Breaking a Two-Decade Drought: Wakama led D’Tigress to their first win in 20 years, an achievement not seen since 2004.

Background

Rena Wakama was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, to Johnson Wakama and Rosana Oba, who hail from Okrika in Rivers State, Nigeria.

Despite being born in the United States, Wakama’s strong African roots influenced her decision to contribute to the development of sports in Nigeria.

Educational Accomplishments

– Bachelor’s Degree: She holds a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Western Carolina University.

– Master’s Degree: She earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from Manhattan College.

Inspirational Journey

Wakama’s journey back to Africa is a testament to her dedication to using her skills and knowledge to foster growth and excellence in Nigerian sports.

Her leadership and strategic vision have not only brought victories but also inspired many young athletes in Nigeria and beyond.

Looking Ahead

With Rena Wakama at the helm, the future of D’Tigress looks promising.

Her achievements in such a short time highlight the potential for continued success and growth for the team on the international stage.

Wakama’s story is a powerful example of how the diaspora can contribute to building and enhancing the capabilities of African sports.

Rena Wakama’s commitment to excellence and her remarkable achievements in leading D’Tigress serve as an inspiration, showing how passion, skill, and dedication can lead to historic successes.

As she continues to guide the team, her influence is set to pave the way for even greater accomplishments in the future.