D’Tigers unleash fury: Nigeria crushes Tunisia in AfroBasket showdown
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This victory positions D’Tigers favorably for a direct quarterfinal berth, with their final Group B match against Cameroon on August 17 looming as a critical test.
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, delivered a commanding 87-66 victory over defending champions Tunisia on Friday, in their second Group B match at the ongoing 2025 FIBA AfroBasket Championship in Angola.
This triumph follows their impressive 77-59 win against Madagascar earlier in the week, solidifying their position as strong contenders for the title last won in 2015.
The Nigeria Basketball Federation’s official account, @NigeriaBasket, captured the game’s intensity, tweeting, “NIGERIA WINS!! 2-0! Took care of the defending champions!!” as D’Tigers sealed the 21-point rout.
The team’s dominance was evident early, with a 10-0 lead to start the game. “GREAT START FOR US! D’Tigers lead 10-0 to start the game!!!” @NigeriaBasket posted, setting the tone for a one-sided affair.
Houston Rockets star Josh Okogie led the charge, erupting for 27 points by the third quarter, as noted by @NigeriaBasket: “STAR BOY OKOGIE!! ⭐️⭐️ HE HAS 27 POINTS!! Nigeria leads 59-39.”
Okogie’s explosive first half, including a slam and a basket plus a foul, helped Nigeria build a 43-25 lead by halftime.
The starting lineup of Caleb Agada, Ike Nwamu, Talib Zanna, Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu, and Okogie showcased a blend of NBA talent and seasoned experience.
Their cohesive play overwhelmed Tunisia, which struggled to recover after a shocking 86-65 loss to Cameroon in their opener.
By the end of the third quarter, Nigeria led 68-47. The team’s disciplined defense and fluid offense, praised by Nigeria Basketball Federation President Ahmadu Musa Kida, proved too much for Tunisia, who were without key veterans like Makram Romdhane and Radhouane Slimane.
This victory positions D’Tigers favorably for a direct quarterfinal berth, with their final Group B match against Cameroon on August 17 looming as a critical test.
Fan excitement was palpable, with @SuperwomanAisha tweeting, “NG Vs Tunisia @ Afrobasket. Let’s go @NigeriaBasket! ,” reflecting national pride in the team’s performance.
As the 2025 AfroBasket continues in Luanda and Namibe, Angola, through August 24, D’Tigers’ emphatic win over the two-time champions signals their intent to reclaim continental dominance. momentum.
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