Nigeria's D'Tigress have settled in Berlin for their 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup opener, determined to justify Africa's top ranking after missing the 2022 edition.

Nigeria's acclaimed female basketball national team, D'Tigress, has officially arrived in Berlin, Germany, gearing up for their highly anticipated opening match of the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup. Their campaign is set to tip off this Friday, September 6, against South Korea. The team is ready to compete on the global stage.

This tournament marks a significant return for D'Tigress, who missed the 2022 edition due to internal challenges within the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF). Now, as Africa's top-ranked squad, they are eager to demonstrate their prowess and advance further in the expanded 16-country format of the championship, which runs from September 4 to 13.

Excitement is palpable among the players, who have expressed their readiness and anticipation for a successful outing against their Asian rivals. Their presence in Berlin signals a renewed focus on global glory for Nigerian women's basketball, according to reporting by Sports247 Nigeria.

D'Tigress Group B Schedule at FIBA World Cup

The 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup presents a challenging group stage for D'Tigress. Their opening game against South Korea is scheduled for 1:30 PM Nigeria time on Friday, September 6, at the Uner Arena in Berlin. This match marks the beginning of their quest for global recognition in Group B.

Following their initial encounter, D'Tigress will face Hungary the very next day, Saturday, September 7, at the same Berlin venue. The first-round fixtures conclude with a high-stakes match against the world's second-ranked team, France, on September 8. The tournament's expanded format offers Nigeria a stronger opportunity to progress beyond the group stage.

Overcoming Past Challenges in International Play

D'Tigress will need to deliver a strong performance, especially against South Korea, a team that handed them a 77-60 defeat during a previous qualification series. This opener provides an immediate chance for Nigeria to showcase their improved form and strategic adjustments against a familiar foe.

Their final group stage opponent, France, also secured a victory over Nigeria during the qualifiers, beating them 93-86. Coach Rena Wakama's players are well aware of the challenges these top-tier teams pose and are prepared to be on their toes for every game. The match against Hungary will be their first senior-level clash, as their only prior encounter was at the junior level in the 2025 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup, where Hungary won 77-51.

Ezinne Kalu's Call for Nigerian Fan Support

Veteran guard Ezinne Kalu, a pivotal figure for D'Tigress, has issued a passionate call to action for Nigerian fans in Germany. The 34-year-old, who first joined the national squad at the 2016 FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, emphasized the importance of local support for the team's ambitions.

Kalu, a five-time consecutive Women’s AfroBasket winner, declared emphatically that she and her teammates "will not raise their arms in surrender" in Berlin. The Zhejiang Golden Bulls of China player is making her second FIBA Women's World Cup appearance and urged fans to turn out in large numbers. "We need our people there to support us. We need every Nigerian near Berlin to come through. Bring your flag, your voice and energy," Kalu stated.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is D'Tigress' first game at the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup?

D'Tigress will play their opening match against South Korea on Friday, September 6, at 1:30 PM Nigeria time (2:30 PM CEST) at the Uner Arena in Berlin, Germany.

Who are D'Tigress' opponents in Group B of the FIBA Women's World Cup?

In Group B, D'Tigress will face South Korea on Friday, September 6, Hungary on Saturday, September 7, and France on Sunday, September 8. These matches will all take place at the Uner Arena in Berlin.

Why did D'Tigress miss the 2022 FIBA Women's World Cup?

D'Tigress missed the 2022 edition of the FIBA Women's World Cup due to a leadership crisis within the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), which ultimately led to the country's withdrawal from the qualifying tournament.

Which D'Tigress veteran player is calling for fan support in Berlin?

Veteran D'Tigress guard Ezinne Kalu, a 34-year-old five-time AfroBasket champion, has called on Nigerians in and around Berlin to attend matches and provide crucial support for the team's World Cup campaign.