‘We do amazing things’ – Sarah Ogoke celebrates Nigerian women’s grit

DDM News

(DDM) — Nigerian-American basketball star and medical doctor, Dr. Sarah Ogoke, has declared that Nigerian women are built for greatness, combining strength, intelligence, and grit in ways that defy the odds.

In a heartfelt interview reported by Arise News on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the five-time Afrobasket champion and trained podiatric surgeon opened up about the discipline and drive that have powered her dual career in professional sports and medicine.

Ogoke, who holds a degree in biology and is still actively practicing surgery, said her success is grounded in values like hard work, focus, and resilience.

“Yeah, I’m just built different,” she said proudly.

“Nigerian women, we’re built different, you know.”

“We do amazing things.”

“We do the impossible.”

She noted that she took vacation days from her surgery job just to participate in the Afrobasket tournament, a powerful testament to her unmatched dedication.

The decorated athlete emphasized how the precision and patience required in medical school translated directly to her dominance on the basketball court.

“In the four years I spent in medical school, I learned how to work steadily on a specific skill set over a long period,” Ogoke said.

“That discipline directly applies to basketball.”

Sarah Ogoke has been a pillar of the Nigerian women’s basketball team since 2015.

The team has gone on an astonishing 29-match winning streak, clinching five consecutive Afrobasket titles.

According to Ogoke, their dominance is not by accident but by blood.

“The blood in our veins is different,” she said.

“We are tenacious, we take pride in who we are, and we refuse to lose.”

Beyond her achievements, Ogoke expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria on the global stage.

She also shared her hope that, by God’s grace, the team would soon bring home an Olympic medal for the country.

Ogoke delivered a stirring message to young Nigerian girls who look up to her.

“Don’t be like me,” she said.

“Be better.”

“Be greater.”

She urged the youth to believe in themselves, cultivate a positive attitude, and surround themselves with like-minded individuals.

“Mentorship is key,” she stressed.

“I love the youth, and the youth is our future.”

Her message has since gone viral across Nigerian social media, with many praising her as a rare symbol of multidimensional success.

From operating rooms to Olympic arenas, Sarah Ogoke’s journey continues to inspire the next generation of Nigerian women.

Indeed, DDM notes that in a world still learning to embrace complexity, Sarah Ogoke stands as living proof that no dream is too big for a woman who believes in herself.

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