As part of preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has announced an international exhibition tour of the United States for the senior women’s team, D’Tigress.
According to the federation, the tour will see D’Tigress face top teams from the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) across three major U.S. cities.
The Nigerian side will open their tour against the Los Angeles Sparks in San Diego on April 25, before taking on the Minnesota Lynx in Kansas City on April 27. The series will conclude with a clash against the Indiana Fever in Indianapolis on May 2.
The NBBF described the fixtures as a strategic opportunity for the team to test their strength against elite opposition and build a squad capable of competing on the global stage.
NBBF President Amadu Musa Kida said the tour reflects the federation’s broader ambition.
“This tour represents more than preparation, it represents intent. D’Tigress have become a dominant force in Africa, but our ambitions are global. Every step we take now is with the World Cup in mind,” he said.
Head coach Rena Wakama highlighted the importance of the exposure, noting that competing against top WNBA sides will aid both the tactical and physical development of the team.
“These opportunities are vital for our growth. They help us build identity and the cohesion needed to succeed on the international stage,” she said.
Also speaking, Ugo Udezue, Chairman of the NBBF Sponsorship and Marketing Committee, said the initiative is also aimed at elevating D’Tigress as a global brand while strengthening engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora.
The tour is expected to be supported by key partners, including Flutterwave for digital infrastructure and XE Jet for logistics.