Amy Okonkwo has cemented her place in African basketball history after being named Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, following Nigeria’s commanding 78–64 victory over Mali in the final on Sunday night, August 3, at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The 28-year-old forward was a dominant force throughout the tournament, leading D’Tigress in scoring and defensive efforts, and once again proving to be the pulse of the Nigerian team. Okonkwo’s leadership and explosive performance on both ends of the court helped Nigeria extend its reign with a record fifth consecutive AfroBasket title — and the seventh in the team’s history.
Her back-to-back MVP titles (2023 and 2025) place her in elite company, joining Nigerian basketball legend Mfon Udoka, who claimed consecutive MVP honors in 2003 and 2005. Okonkwo’s performance also underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in women’s basketball across Africa and beyond.
Coached by Rena Wakama, D’Tigress dominated the tournament from start to finish, going unbeaten and showcasing a deep roster and tenacious defense. The team’s performance once again validates its standing as Africa’s premier women’s basketball powerhouse.
Wakama, the first female head coach to win the competition when she led D’Tigress to victory in 2023, has now guided the team to back-to-back titles — a feat that has placed her in the coaching hall of fame of Nigerian basketball.
Beyond her on-court brilliance, Okonkwo’s MVP story is a beacon of inspiration for young African girls in sports. A product of both American collegiate basketball and Nigerian resilience, she continues to represent the promise of excellence rooted in dual heritage.
With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games behind them, this victory sends a strong message ahead of the next international window: D’Tigress are not just champions of Africa — they’re coming for the world stage.
