Pius Ayinor
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has expressed its heartfelt condolences to D’Tigress star Victoria Macaulay and her family following the passing of her father, Lanre Macaulay, in the United States after an illness.
NBBF President Engr. Musa Kida, on behalf of the Board, players, coaches and the entire Nigerian basketball family, extended the Federation’s sympathies to Victoria and her family at this difficult time.
Kida described the loss as one felt across the Nigerian basketball community, noting that behind Victoria’s years of service to the national team was a proud and supportive father who followed his daughter’s journey representing Nigeria around the world.
“Victoria has given so much to Nigeria and to D’Tigress over the years. At a moment like this, the entire Nigerian basketball family stands with her and her family. We pray that they find strength and comfort in the memories and love they shared with their father,” Kida said.
Lanre Macaulay was a devoted supporter of his daughter’s basketball career and took immense pride in seeing her wear Nigeria’s colours, travelling to watch her represent the country internationally.
Victoria has become an important part of one of the most successful generations in Nigerian basketball history. She joined D’Tigress in 2019 and has represented Nigeria across multiple major international competitions, including the Olympic Games, AfroBasket and the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
She was part of Nigeria’s AfroBasket championship-winning teams in 2019, 2021 and 2025, contributing to D’Tigress’ extraordinary run of continental success.
Earlier this year, Macaulay was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon, averaging 13.6 points, 6 rebounds and 2.4 assists across five games. She subsequently represented Nigeria at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Beyond the national team, the Temple University alumna has built an extensive professional career spanning the United States and Europe, including WNBA experience and spells with leading European clubs.
President Kida said the Federation’s concern at this moment goes beyond basketball.
“Victoria is part of our family. She has represented Nigeria with commitment and pride for many years, and today our responsibility is simply to stand beside her. On behalf of the NBBF Board and everyone connected to Nigerian basketball, we extend our deepest condolences to Victoria, her family, and everyone who knew and loved her father.”
