BASKETBALL: D’Tigers Triumph in 2025 AfroBasket Opener
Oru Leonard
Nigeria’s D’Tigers has kicked off their 2025 AfroBasket campaign with a convincing 77-59 victory over Madagascar in Luanda, Angola. The win marks a positive start for the 2015 champions as they seek to reclaim the continental title.
Both teams started strong, but D’Tigers took the first quarter 18-14.
Madagascar edged the second quarter 23-20, but D’Tigers held on to a narrow halftime lead of 38-37.
In the second half, D’Tigers shifted gears, displaying defensive discipline, swift ball movement, and efficient shooting. They dominated the third quarter 17-9 and sealed the contest with a 22-13 surge in the final quarter.
Key perfomers include Caleb Agada who Led the team with 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals, Stan Okoye who Chipped in with 13 points, Ike Nwamu who ddded 12 points.
D’Tigers set their sights on their next challenge which is a heavyweight clash against defending champions Tunisia on Friday, and will conclude their group stage fixtures against Cameroon on Sunday.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the team’s resilience and composure, particularly in the third and fourth quarters, where Nigeria’s brave adjustments shut down Madagascar’s scoring rhythm.
