Despite a valiant effort, Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigers suffered a 70-57 defeat to defending champions Egypt in the opening game of their FIBA U-18 Afrobasket in Pretoria, South Africa.
The team, jet-lagged after arriving in Pretoria just hours before the game, displayed impressive resilience given their limited preparation. Previously denied visas by the South African consulate, the Nigerian team secured participation with the intervention of the government, the Nigeria Basketball Federation, and FIBA.
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Azeez Olitan Sulaimon led the Nigerian offense with 14 points, four rebounds, four assists, and four steals. Isaac Oluwatemitope Ezekiel contributed 11 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, while Ekpo Effiong Bassey added nine points and 12 rebounds.
Mohammed Tarek Khairy Hussain excelled for Egypt with 21 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Omar Mowafak also played a key role, contributing 15 points and 12 rebounds.
Nigeria struggled with their shooting percentage, particularly from beyond the arc, making only 11.54% of their three-point attempts. Their next game will be against Angola on Saturday.
The goal for the team will be to reach the final of the competition, a position that will automatically qualify them for the 2025 FIBA U-19 World Cup in Switzerland.
