Ogwumike’s Dream Of Representing Nigeria Ends After Third FIBA Rejection

Ogwumike’s Dream Of Representing Nigeria Ends After Third FIBA Rejection

Sampson Adedeji

Seattle Storm forward Nneka Ogwumike’s long-held dream of representing Nigeria at the Olympics has officially come to an end, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has once again rejected her application to play for Nigeria, this time for both the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking the third consecutive denial of her appeal.

Ogwumike, whose parents are Nigerian, first sought to switch allegiance from the United States ahead of the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, but her request was denied on the grounds that the application came too close to the start of the Games.

Subsequent appeals were also rejected, with FIBA citing her key role in Team USA’s triumphs at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups and its policy discouraging players from representing multiple senior national teams.

Speaking with the Associated Press, the 34-year-old expressed acceptance of the decision after years of effort.

 “After the second appeal, I made my peace with it. The third time, I just told myself I gave it my all. It’s unfortunate, but there are some things you can’t control,” Ogwumike said.

She added that while her contributions to the U.S. team were recognized, the situation felt unfair from a personal standpoint.

“They keep using the same excuse. I’m not going to beat a dead horse. I gave it an honest try, so I feel fine about it.”

With FIBA standing firm on its decision, Ogwumike’s hopes of donning Nigeria’s green and white jersey have now been permanently dashed.