Rena Wakama is a trailblazing Nigerian basketball coach and former player, renowned for her historic achievements in African and international basketball. She currently serves as the head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, and as an assistant coach for the WNBA’s Chicago Sky.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 11, 1992, in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, Rena Wakama is of Nigerian descent, with roots in Okrika, Rivers State. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Western Carolina University in 2014, where she also played collegiate basketball. Subsequently, she obtained a Master of Business Administration from Manhattan College.
Playing Career
Wakama played as a guard for the Western Carolina Catamounts from 2010 to 2014. In her senior year, she averaged 10.5 points per game and was named to the 2014 Southern Conference All-Tournament Second Team . After college, she played professionally for First Bank BC in Nigeria and represented D’Tigress at the 2015 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Cameroon, where Nigeria secured a third-place finish.
Coaching Career
Wakama began her coaching journey at Manhattan College, serving as Director of Women’s Basketball Operations before becoming an assistant coach . She later joined Tulane University as an assistant coach. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first female head coach of D’Tigress. Under her leadership, Nigeria won the 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, marking her as the first female coach to lead a team to the title . At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she guided D’Tigress to the quarterfinals—the first African women’s team to achieve this feat—and was named the tournament’s Best Coach by FIBA . In March 2025, Wakama was appointed as an assistant coach for the Chicago Sky in the WNBA.
Height
Rena Wakama stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall .
Net Worth
Estimates of Wakama’s net worth vary. Some sources suggest it ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 , while others estimate it between $1 million and $5 million . These figures reflect her successful career as both a player and coach.
Legacy and Impact
Rena Wakama’s pioneering role as the first female head coach of Nigeria’s women’s basketball team and her historic achievements at the AfroBasket and the Olympics have solidified her status as a significant figure in African sports. Her success continues to inspire a new generation of female athletes and coaches across the continent.
(FAQs) about Rena Wakama:
Who is Rena Wakama?
Rena Wakama is a Nigerian-American basketball coach and former player. She is best known as the head coach of Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, and an assistant coach for the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. She made history as the first female head coach to win the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.
When was Rena Wakama born?
She was born on April 11, 1992.
Where is Rena Wakama from?
Although born in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, Rena Wakama is of Nigerian descent, with roots in Okrika, Rivers State.
What is Rena Wakama’s height?
Rena Wakama stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall.
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What did Rena Wakama study in college?
She earned a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Western Carolina University, and later completed an MBA at Manhattan College.
Did Rena Wakama play professional basketball?
Yes. She played collegiate basketball for Western Carolina Catamounts and later went pro with First Bank BC in Nigeria. She also represented Nigeria (D’Tigress) at the 2015 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.
When did Rena Wakama become head coach of D’Tigress?
She was appointed head coach of D’Tigress in 2023, making history as the first woman to hold the position.
What are Rena Wakama’s major achievements as a coach?
- Led Nigeria to win the 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket
- Became the first female coach to lead a team to the AfroBasket title
- Guided Nigeria to the quarterfinals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the first for any African women’s team
- Named Best Coach of the 2024 Olympic tournament by FIBA
What is Rena Wakama’s net worth?
Estimates vary widely. Some sources suggest it ranges between $50,000 and $250,000, while others place it between $1 million and $5 million.
Is Rena Wakama active on social media?
Yes, she is active on platforms like Twitter/X and Instagram, often sharing coaching moments, achievements, and motivational content. Her handle is often found as @Coach_Rena.
