Nigeria’s Amy Okonkwo is steadily turning heads in the United States as she continues her transition from African dominance to the global stage.
The D’Tigress captain made her second straight appearance for her new team, the Connecticut Sun, contributing to their 94-86 preseason win over the New York Liberty, one of the top contenders ahead of the 2024 WNBA season tip-off on May 17.
While the 28-year-old forward didn’t start, she made the most of her bench minutes—registering four points, four rebounds, and one steal.
From Bourges to the Big League
Okonkwo, a two-time FIBA Women’s AfroBasket champion and former AfroBasket MVP, signed with the Sun following an impressive season with French powerhouse Bourges Basket.
In France, she averaged:
13.8 points per game
5 rebounds per game
1.4 assists per game
48% field goal shooting
Her performance overseas established her as one of the most consistent African players in Europe and caught the attention of WNBA scouts.
A Promising Start in the WNBA
In her debut game against the Seattle Storm last week, Okonkwo posted a solid stat line with:
10 points
4 rebounds
1 assist
Despite the Sun’s 79-59 loss, Okonkwo’s effort stood out as one of the team’s few bright spots.
Veteran Leadership Paving the Way
The Connecticut Sun, led by WNBA legend Tina Charles, put on a dominant team display against the Liberty.
Charles, 36, scored a game-high 17 points, added six rebounds and three assists, proving age is just a number. She was well-supported by:
Jacy Sheldon – 16 points
Olivia Nelson-Ododa – 15 points
Marina Mabrey – 13 points
Okonkwo’s seamless fit into this experienced squad is encouraging as the Sun prepare for a deep postseason run in the upcoming season.
Eyes on Ivory Coast: D’Tigress Duties Await
While Amy Okonkwo’s immediate focus is on establishing herself in the WNBA, she remains a key figure for Nigeria’s D’Tigress, who will defend their title at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Ivory Coast this summer.
Did You Know?
Amy Okonkwo is the first Nigerian-born player on the Connecticut Sun roster in recent years.
She is also one of a select few AfroBasket MVPs to earn a WNBA contract without playing in the NCAA.
She was named AfroBasket 2023 MVP after leading Nigeria to their fourth consecutive title.
