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Zenith Bank Plc, a leading Nigerian commercial bank, has applauded the Nigerian national female basketball team, D’Tigress, following the team’s victory at the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2019. The Nigerian team defeated Senegal, the host nation, 60-55 points in the final match on Sunday to retain the coveted continental trophy.

The 26th edition of the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2019 took place in Dakar from August 9-18. The Nigerian female basketball team kick-started the competition with resounding victories, including the 75-26 points win over Tunisia and 106-39 points win over Cameroun in the group stages, before recording a 79-46 points win over Congo in the quarterfinals and a 79-58 points win over Mali in the semifinals.

Speaking on the success of the team at the championship, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Ebenezer Onyeagwu, commended D’Tigress for its hard work, doggedness and team spirit, which enabled the team to retain the trophy, which it won two years ago in Mali. Zenith Bank’s GMD/CEO expressed delight at the heroics of the team, comprised mostly of products of the Zenith Bank Women Basketball League, which the bank has sponsored solely for 15 consecutive years.

D’Tigress of Nigeria held their nerves in the final quarter of the game on Sunday played at the magnificent Dakar Arena, fighting off a late challenge from its Senegalese counterpart, to emerge the African champion for the fourth time.

Evelyn Akhator, one of the products of the Zenith Bank-sponsored Nigerian Female Basketball League, scored 14 points and made nine rebounds. Her amazing performance throughout the tournament earned her a place in the Tournament Five.

FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament takes place every two years and features the top 12 national teams on the continent.