D’Tigress head coach Rena Wakama has been appointed as an assistant coach with Chicago Sky, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) club announced on Tuesday.
Wakama has enjoyed immense success with the D’Tigress, having led the team to AfroBasket triumph as well as a historic outing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they became the first African team, male or female, to qualify for the quarterfinals of the basketball competition.
The 32-year-old joins head coach Tyler Marsh’s coaching staff as one of the assistants alongside Courtney Paris and Tanisha Wright.
“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, who was named best women’s coach at Olympics by FIBA, said: “I am honoured and thankful for Jeff and Tyler for granting me the opportunity to join the Chicago Sky family.
“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!”
Join us in welcoming Rena Wakama to the Sky coaching staff as an assistant coach!🩵💛@Coach_Rena | #skytown
— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) March 25, 2025
🔗 https://t.co/up6UZan6dT pic.twitter.com/JexXd2phzw
The Sky will tip off the 2025 regular season on Saturday, 17 May, against Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Chicago will also play three preseason games in 2025, including two against Minnesota Lynch on May 6 and 10, and one against the Brazilian National Team at LSU on May 2.
