Nigeria's national basketball team, D'Tigers, receives government support as the AfroBasket tournament of 2025 commences in Angola.
The Nigerian men's basketball team, the D'Tigers, have impressively navigated the group stage of the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket, securing a direct entry to the quarterfinals with a perfect 3-0 record.
In their debut match on August 13, the D'Tigers claimed victory over Madagascar, setting the tone for their undefeated run. This was followed by a hard-fought 99-90 win over Cameroon on August 18, propelling them to the top of Group B. The team's impressive performance also saw them outclass defending champions Tunisia in their final group match[1][2].
The D'Tigers' success can be attributed to standout performances from players such as Josh Okogie, Caleb Agada, Stan Okoye, Christian Mekowulu, Ike Nwamu, and Martins Igbannu[2]. Their combined efforts have solidified the team's confidence and momentum moving into the knockout rounds.
By finishing first in Group B, the D'Tigers have bypassed additional playoff rounds and advanced directly to the quarterfinals, a significant scheduling advantage[1][2]. Meanwhile, Cameroon, who finished second in the group, will have to compete against DR Congo for a quarterfinal spot[1].
The exact date and opponent for Nigeria in the quarterfinals have yet to be announced[1]. However, the tournament quarterfinal schedule includes other exciting matches such as Côte d'Ivoire versus Mali on August 20, 2025[5].
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has been supportive of the D'Tigers' pursuit of a second continental crown. NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR is fully behind the team[3]. Dikko also reminded the 12-man D'Tigers squad of their proven track record and urged them to play with discipline, patriotism, passion, and togetherness[3].
Dikko drew inspiration from the D'Tigress, who displayed remarkable grit at the recent Women's AfroBasket, and encouraged the men's team to carry the same never-say-die disposition into the Men's AfroBasket[3].
The 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament, hosted by Angola, runs from August 12 to 24, with the host nation aiming to secure a record-extending 12th AfroBasket title[1][4].
[1] - [Source 1] [2] - [Source 2] [3] - [Source 3] [4] - [Source 4] [5] - [Source 5]
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