Nigeria Women’s Basketball Team Reaches Historic Olympic Quarterfinals

Nigeria’s women’s basketball team has made history by securing their first-ever spot in the Olympic quarterfinals at Paris 2024. After a momentous 75-62 victory against Australia in their opener on July 29, the team continued their impressive run with a 79-70 win over Canada on August 4.

Ezinne Kalu led the Nigerian squad with 21 points, while Shay Colley scored 17 for Canada. The game remained tightly contested in the first half, with Canada holding a four-point lead at halftime. However, Nigeria’s relentless pressure in the second half proved too much for Canada. Nigeria outscored Canada 23-5 in the third quarter, including a decisive 15-0 run, and expanded their lead to 17 points by the fourth quarter.

Nigeria’s defense was pivotal, limiting Canada to 37 percent shooting and forcing 26 turnovers, resulting in 27 points. The team’s tenacity also led to 16 steals. Free throw performance was another key factor; Nigeria converted 14 of 17 attempts, while Canada missed seven of their 22 tries.

D’Tigress through to the Olympic Quarter-Finals photo credit; FIBA

Despite a loss to France on August 1, Nigeria’s defensive identity shone throughout the group stage. They forced 69 turnovers across three games, including 40 steals.

Now, D’Tigress await their first-ever Olympic quarterfinal matchup, ready to continue their historic journey.

Written by Boom RadioNG