AFCON 2025
Nigerian athletes are shining in the WNBA, showcasing talent and heritage, and we are proud to highlight their performances and contributions.
Here are 5 WNBA players of Nigerian descent
1. Nneka Ogwumike
Born July 2, 1990, in Tomball, Texas, Nneka is Nigerian-American of Igbo descent. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2012, she won the 2016 WNBA MVP and Championship. Now with the Seattle Storm, she’s a seven-time All-Star. In 2024, she averaged 16.7 points and 7.6 rebounds, earning All-Defensive honors and leading as WNBA Players Association President.
2. Chiney Ogwumike
Born March 21, 1992, in Tomball, Texas, Chiney is Nneka’s sister, of Igbo descent with dual citizenship. She was the top pick in 2014 by the Connecticut Sun, going on to be named Rookie of the Year and becoming a two-time All-Star. She last played for the Sparks in 2023 but has been severely limited by injuries. She’s also an ESPN analyst.
3. Arike Ogunbowale
Born March 2, 1997, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Arike is of Yoruba descent, with Nigerian parents. Drafted fifth overall by Dallas Wings in 2019, she’s a three-time All-Star and 2024 All-Star Game MVP with a record 34 points. She averaged 22.2 points in 2024 and will join the Unrivaled league in 2025.
4. Elizabeth Williams
Born June 23, 1993, in Colchester, England, to Nigerian parents, Elizabeth holds dual citizenship. Drafted fourth overall by the Connecticut Sun in 2015, she’s a two-time All-Defensive Team member, now with Chicago Sky. In 2024, she averaged 10.0 points and 7.0 rebounds before a knee injury; she was denied Nigerian Olympic eligibility by FIBA.
5. kiki Iriafen
Born in 2003 in Buffalo, New York, Okikiola is Nigerian-American. Drafted 4th overall by Washington Mystics in 2025, she averaged 19.4 points and 11.0 rebounds at Stanford in 2024-2025. With her impressive college performance, she’s tipped to achieve great things in the WNBA.
