W’Cup: Kalu Rallies Fans To Storm Berlin For D’Tigress

D’Tigress guard Ezinne Kalu has called on Nigerians living in Germany and those able to travel to Berlin to come out in large numbers and support the team at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.

Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team will compete in the global tournament in Berlin from September 4 to 13, having secured automatic qualification after winning the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title.

Kalu, one of the most experienced players in the squad, believes strong support from Nigerian fans could provide the team with an important boost as they take on some of the world’s best basketball nations.

The veteran guard urged Nigerians to make the trip to Berlin, fill the stands and create an atmosphere that would make the players feel at home during the competition.

D’Tigress enter the World Cup with growing confidence after making history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by reaching the quarter-finals, becoming the first African basketball team to advance that far in the Olympic tournament.

Their impressive Olympic campaign raised expectations surrounding the team, and they will now attempt to achieve another landmark result on the global stage.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group B alongside Korea, Hungary and France. The group presents a difficult challenge, with France ranked among the leading teams in international women’s basketball.

Kalu remains one of the key players expected to lead Nigeria’s campaign. Her experience, ball-handling ability and leadership will be important as coach Rena Wakama looks to guide the team through the tournament.

The D’Tigress squad also includes several players with international experience, giving Nigeria a strong combination of veteran leadership and athletic ability.

Nigeria’s preparation for the tournament has included international friendlies and training camps designed to improve tactical organisation, defensive intensity and team chemistry.

The team has also faced strong opposition during its preparations, giving Wakama an opportunity to assess the players and identify areas that require improvement before the competition begins.

Kalu’s appeal to supporters highlights the importance of the Nigerian community in Germany, particularly during a tournament taking place in Berlin.

The team will need strong support as it attempts to progress beyond the group stage and improve on Nigeria’s previous World Cup performances.

With the tournament now approaching, D’Tigress are expected to arrive in Berlin determined to build on their recent success and compete strongly against the world’s leading teams.

Kalu believes the presence of Nigerian supporters can provide additional motivation and help the players feel the backing of the country throughout their World Cup journey.