On Sunday, August 4, Nigeria’s senior female basketball team, D’Tigress, achieved a historic milestone by defeating Canada 79-70 to secure their first-ever quarterfinals berth at the Olympic Games.
The thrilling victory took place during their final Group B match at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Paris, part of the 2024 Olympics. The game began with both teams tied at 18 points each after the first quarter, setting the stage for an intense showdown.
In the second quarter, D’Tigress fell behind by a narrow margin, trailing Canada 41-37. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination, the Nigerian team surged ahead in the second half. By the end of the third quarter, D’Tigress had taken a commanding lead at 55-46, ultimately sealing their historic win with a final score of 79-70.
Point guard Ezinne Kalu, a three-time Afrobasket champion, delivered a standout performance, contributing 21 points and showcasing her skill throughout the game. The victory was a proud moment for head coach Rene Wakama, who had motivated his team to return to their winning form before facing Canada.
This landmark achievement marks a significant milestone for Nigerian women’s basketball, as D’Tigress now advance to the quarterfinals of the Olympic tournament, furthering their legacy on the global stage.
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