For basketball star Nneka Ogwumike, the dream of representing Nigeria at the Olympics has officially come to an end.
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has denied her application for the third time, ruling her ineligible to play for Nigeria at the 2028 Los Angeles Games and next World Cup.
Ogwumike, whose parents are Nigerian, began seeking approval in 2021 after being left out of the U.S. Olympic team despite her long service and stellar career. “I’ve made my peace with it,” she told the Associated Press. “I gave it my all. There are just some things you can’t control.”
FIBA cited her past role in Team USA’s World Cup victories in 2014 and 2018, maintaining its stance against players representing multiple senior national teams. Her sister, Chiney Ogwumike, was approved due to different eligibility rules, while Elizabeth Williams was also rejected.
Still, Nneka remains proud. Her determination to honor her Nigerian heritage underscores her leadership and grace. “It’s about choosing where you belong,” she said. “And I’ll always belong to both.”
