Seattle Storm star and 2016 Women National Basketball Association most valuable player, Nneka Ogwumike says she is still awaiting approval from FIBA to switch her international allegiance to Nigeria, after parting ways with the U.S. national team in 2020.
Ogwumike who was included in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the Paris 2024 Olympics was later dropped from the final list after her nationality change was denied by basketball’s global governing body.
The Texas-born forward previously won World Cup titles with Team USA in 2014 and 2018.
Despite the setback, Ogwumike insists her time with the U.S. national team is over, reaffirming her desire to play for D’Tigress at future events, including the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“The application for my nationality change has been in progress since I stepped away from Team USA. We’re just waiting on FIBA’s response.Hopefully, I can still represent Nigeria at the next Olympics.”she said
On the court, Ogwumike continues to shine for Seattle Storm in the ongoing WNBA season, averaging 17 points and 8 rebounds across 20 games.
Her stellar form has earned her a spot in the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game, where she’ll be starting for Team Napheesa Collier on July 20 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.The veteran expressed excitement about the league’s growth
“Anyone involved with or supporting the WNBA wants to see it expand. I’m grateful to be part of its journey. More teams are coming next year and that’s a win for the game.”she said
