In a monumental career move, Rena Wakama, the trailblazing head coach of Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, has joined the Chicago Sky as an assistant coach ahead of the 2025 WNBA season. This exciting development adds another impressive chapter to Wakama’s already history-making journey through the world of basketball.
A Groundbreaking Path: From D’Tigress to the WNBA
Rena Wakama isn’t new to making history. In 2023, she became the first female head coach of Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team—and she didn’t stop there. She guided D’Tigress to a fourth straight FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title, becoming the first woman ever to win the prestigious tournament as a coach.
Wakama continued to elevate her legacy at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she led Nigeria to the quarterfinals. That performance made D’Tigress the first African basketball team—male or female—to reach the last eight at an Olympic Games. Her brilliant leadership earned her the title of Best Coach of the Tournament from FIBA, a recognition that speaks volumes of her impact on and off the court.
Sky’s Vision Aligns with Wakama’s Winning Mentality
Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh was full of praise for Wakama’s appointment, emphasizing the winning mindset and depth of experience she brings to the table.
“Rena has proven that she has a winning mindset and attitude,” Marsh said.
“We’ve seen her success this past summer with the Nigerian National Team at the Olympics, building on an impressive winning record and extensive background in coaching and player development.”
“She is an excellent young leader and coach who will make a significant impact on the Sky’s program.”
Wakama joins Marsh’s coaching staff alongside Courtney Paris and Tanisha Wright, forming a formidable team focused on bringing the Sky back into championship contention.
Wakama Excited to Write a New Chapter
Clearly thrilled by the opportunity, Wakama expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
“I am honored and thankful to Jeff and Tyler for granting me the opportunity to join the Chicago Sky family,” she said.
“Tyler has one of the best basketball minds in the industry, and I’m excited to help him bring his vision to life.”
“I look forward to serving this organization and working alongside the other brilliant minds on staff to create a brand of basketball that is not only competitive but also fun to watch! Let’s get to work!”
From Player to Coach: A Story of Grit and Growth
Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, Wakama played college basketball at Western Carolina University from 2010 to 2014. She earned Southern Conference All-Tournament Second Team honors before transitioning into a coaching career that has seen her rise steadily through the ranks.
Her coaching résumé includes:
- Manhattan College – Director of Basketball Operations & Assistant Coach
- Stony Brook (2023-24) – Helped lead the team to a stellar 28-5 record and a Coastal Athletic Association regular season title
- Tulane University (2024-25) – Briefly served as assistant coach before making the leap to the WNBA
Wakama’s move to the Chicago Sky represents not just a personal triumph, but a significant milestone for African women in sports leadership.
Eyes on the 2025 Season
The Chicago Sky will tip off their 2025 WNBA regular season on May 17 against the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Before that, they’ll warm up with three preseason games, including a must-watch matchup against the Brazilian National Team on May 2.
With Rena Wakama now in the coaching mix, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how her influence shapes the Sky’s style and competitiveness in the upcoming season.
