Nigeria has opened its account in the ongoing 2024 FIBA U-18 Afrobasket as the Junior D’Tigers fell to Egypt 70-57 in their opening match.
The Junior D’Tigers were defeated 70-57 by the defending champions, Egypt, in their opening game of the FIBA U-18 Afrobasket campaign in Pretoria, South Africa. This defeat came after delays caused by the South African embassy in issuing visas, which led to the team arriving just hours before the match.
Despite facing significant obstacles leading up to the game, including the late arrival in Pretoria, the Nigerian team showed commendable resilience. Their participation was uncertain due to visa delays from the South African consulate, but a last-minute intervention by the Nigerian government, the Nigeria Basketball Federation, and FIBA ensured their arrival.
Azeez Olitan Sulaimon led Nigeria’s offense with 14 points, four rebounds, four assists, and four steals. Isaac Oluwatemitope Ezekiel added 11 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, while Ekpo Effiong Bassey contributed nine points and pulled down 12 rebounds.
Egypt’s Mohammed Tarek Khairy Hussain was the standout performer of the game, leading all scorers with 21 points and also contributing five rebounds and four assists. Omar Mowafak bolstered Egypt’s efforts with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
The Junior D’Tigers struggled with their shooting, particularly from three-point range, managing only 11.54% of their attempts from beyond the arc.
The team will now focus on their next game against Angola on Saturday, as they aim to reach the final and secure a spot in the 2025 FIBA U-19 World Cup in Switzerland.
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