Rena Wakama, the head coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Best Women’s Basketball Coach award at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This accolade highlights her exceptional leadership and commitment to the sport. Notably, Wakama also made history as the first Nigerian coach to lead the National Female Basketball Team to victory in the women’s Afrobasket title since its inception in 1966.
Under Wakama’s guidance, Nigeria’s D’Tigress reached the quarter-finals of the Olympic tournament for the first time ever. This milestone marked a historic achievement for African basketball, as they became the first African team, male or female, to advance to that stage in Olympic history. Although Nigeria’s journey ended with a 74-88 defeat against the United States, the accomplishment remains significant for the team and African basketball as a whole.
The announcement of Wakama’s award came from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), which praised her efforts on social media. A tweet declared, “Best coach of #Paris2024 Women’s Basketball, Rena Wakama, Nigeria.” This recognition underscores her impact on the game and her ability to inspire her players.
In addition to Wakama’s achievements, another highlight for Nigeria was the inclusion of point guard Ezinne Kalu on the All-Second Team of the Olympic Women’s Basketball. Kalu’s performance throughout the tournament showcased her skill and determination, further contributing to the team’s success.
Wakama’s journey in basketball began before her role as head coach. In 2023, she became the first female head coach of D’Tigress. Prior to this promotion, she served as the director of women’s basketball operations. During her third year, she transitioned to an assistant coach role, where she developed young talent while also focusing on academics and community service within the team.
This recognition at the Paris 2024 Olympics serves as not only a personal achievement for Rena Wakama but also a significant milestone for Nigerian sports. Her success story will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and coaches across Nigeria and beyond. As she continues to excel, the legacy of Rena Wakama will leave a lasting impact on women’s basketball in Africa.
Source: ChannelsTv
