Super Falcons star and Houston Dash defender Michelle Alozie made sure to spotlight a fellow Nigerian icon during Houston Dash’s She Shines Night — and it was none other than Grammy-winning Afrobeats sensation Tems.
During the special event held ahead of Dash’s clash with Gotham FC, Alozie, along with her teammates, wore warm-up shirts featuring the names of women who inspire them. For Alozie, Tems was the obvious choice — not just for her music but for her groundbreaking achievements on and off the stage.
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Why Tems? More Than Just Music
Alozie praised Tems for being a trailblazer, celebrating her historic feat as the first African woman to co-own a U.S. professional soccer team after recently joining the ownership group of MLS expansion club San Diego FC. But Alozie’s admiration goes beyond the headlines.
“I admire how Tems keeps her faith at the core of her music — it’s inspiring to see someone so God-centered making such a big impact,” Alozie shared.
Tems, whose full name is Temilade Openiyi, has continued to shatter ceilings. In 2025, she took home her second Grammy, winning Best African Music Performance for her hit single Love Me Jeje, following her first Grammy win in 2023 for her feature on Future’s Wait For U. Recently, she released her debut album Born In The Wild, further solidifying her global status.
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Alozie’s Journey Mirrors Resilience
Michelle Alozie, born in Apple Valley, California, to Nigerian parents from Imo State, has also carved her name into the history books. A key player for both Houston Dash and Nigeria’s Super Falcons, Alozie played every minute at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and continues to shine in the NWSL.
For the 2025 season, Alozie has embraced change, sporting the number 22 jersey but vowed never to change it again. She hopes to bring fresh energy to the pitch while staying inspired by figures like Tems.
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Sisterhood Beyond Borders
Alozie’s tribute is a powerful reminder of the growing influence of Nigerian women globally — from football fields to music stages and even sports boardrooms.
With stars like Alozie and Tems breaking barriers, it’s clear that the new generation of Nigerian women isn’t just participating — they are taking over.
