Nigerian Coach Rena Wakama Emerges Best Coach at Paris 2024 Olympics

Despite Team Nigeria's disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where they failed to win a single medal, head coach Rena Wakama of the senior women's basketball team, D'Tigress, emerged as a shining star. Wakama was named the best coach of the Women's Olympic Basketball Tournament, a testament to her exceptional leadership and coaching skills.

Credit: The Daily Pointers

Under Wakama's guidance, D'Tigress achieved historic success, becoming the first African team to advance beyond the group phase in Olympic basketball history. Despite being ranked 12th in the world, they defeated higher-ranked teams like Australia and Canada, showcasing their impressive skills and determination.

Credit: Pulse Sport

Wakama's coaching prowess was evident throughout the tournament, as D'Tigress set new standards, including scoring over 73 points in consecutive games for the first time at the Olympics. Her team's campaign ultimately ended with a loss to the USA, but they demonstrated remarkable fighting spirit and qualities until the very end.

Credit: Pulse Sport

Wakama's achievement is all the more remarkable considering her age - just 32 years old - making her one of the youngest coaches in Olympic history. Her recognition as Best Coach is well-deserved, and she has inspired a new generation of Nigerian and African basketball players.

Additionally, point guard Ezinne Kalu was named to the All-Second Team of the Women's Olympic Basketball Tournament, a testament to her outstanding performance throughout the competition. Kalu averaged 18.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game, making her a key force behind D'Tigress's historic campaign.