The Nigerian national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has assembled in Saarbrucken, Germany, to finalize preparations for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

However, the team faces the notable absence of Sarah Ogoke, who, due to personal reasons, will not be joining them for the 2024 Olympics.

Ogoke, a respected leader within the team, has been a consistent inspiration for D’Tigress over the years.

Joi John, the media officer for the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), conveyed the news, stating, “While Sarah’s absence is disappointing, we remain resilient and committed to representing Nigeria with pride.

Sarah has sent her best wishes to the team and will support us virtually.”

Sixteen players have been invited to the final camp, from which the final squad of twelve will be selected.

The roster includes Amy Okonkwo, Ezinne Kalu, Promise Amukamara, Elizabeth Balogun, Nicole Enabosi, Tomi Taiwo, Ifunanya Okoro, Pallas-Kunayi Akpanah, Murjanatu Musa, Lauren Ebo, Blessing Ejiofor, Solape Amusan, Rita Igbokwe, Lucy Ibeh, Adebola Adeyeye, and Christeen Iwuala.

Under the leadership of Rena Wakama, D’Tigress clinched their fourth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title last August by defeating Senegal 84-74.

Ogoke played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, contributing significantly to the team’s success.

Returning to the squad are stars like Ezinne Kalu, the 2019 Women’s AfroBasket MVP, and Promise Amukamara, a 2019 AfroBasket champion and 2020 Olympian.

Newcomer Lauren Ebo, who debuted at the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament earlier this year, adds depth to the team.

Additionally, players like Solape Amusan, Rita Igbokwe, and Christeen Iwuala are competing for their first Olympic spots.

In Germany, D’Tigress faces a challenging task ahead as they prepare to compete against higher-ranked opponents such as Australia, France, and Canada.

Their Olympic journey begins with a match against Australia on July 29, followed by games against France on August 1 and Canada on August 4.