LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — Rena Wakama, head coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team D’Tigress, has been appointed head coach of Hive BC ahead of the club’s debut in the 2026 Unrivaled League season.
Wakama, who became the first woman to coach Nigeria’s national team in 2023, led D’Tigress to back-to-back AfroBasket titles and guided them to a historic quarterfinal finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics — the first by any African women’s basketball team.
Hive BC officials said Wakama’s appointment reflects their commitment to building a competitive team and promoting global representation in women’s basketball. Details of her contract and whether she will continue with D’Tigress were not disclosed.
Members of D’Tigress celebrated the news, describing Wakama’s rise as an inspiration to young athletes across Africa. Forward Amy Okonkwo said the coach’s leadership had transformed the team’s confidence and unity.
“She’s more than a coach to us — she’s a leader who believes in every player,” Okonkwo said. “We’re proud to see her take this next step.”
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu also congratulated Wakama, calling her “a symbol of excellence and determination” and praising her achievements for “lifting the spirit of a nation through sport.”
Sports Minister John Owan Enoh added that Wakama’s success demonstrates “the strength and potential of Nigerian women in global sports leadership,” pledging continued government support for basketball development.
Wakama, a former player at Manhattan College in New York, began her coaching career in the United States before returning to Nigeria. She became a trailblazer in African basketball by leading the D’Tigress to continental and Olympic success within her first two years in charge.
She joined the WNBA’s Chicago Sky earlier this year as an assistant coach, expanding her international coaching experience.
Analysts say her new role with Hive BC — a team built to compete in a growing women’s professional league — marks a significant milestone for African representation in global basketball.
“Rena Wakama’s journey shows how far African coaches can go when given opportunity and support,” said one basketball federation official. “She’s opened doors for the next generation.”
Hive BC is expected to begin preseason preparations in early 2026, with Wakama at the helm.
