- D’Tigress upset Australia’s Opals for their first Olympic victory in two decades, dating back to their 68-64 triumph over South Korea at the Athens 2004 Games.
- Strong performances from key players like Amy Okonkwo, Ezinne Kalu, Elizabeth Balogun, and Promise Amukamara were pivotal in the victory.
- The team executed their game plan effectively, focusing on a slow, half-court game to stay competitive against the more experienced Opals.
- Defensive efforts, particularly from Murjanatu Musa and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpannah, were crucial in controlling the boards and keeping the game close.
Newsypeople – Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, carved their names in history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by clinching a nail-biting 51-47 victory over Australia’s Opals in their Group B opener.
This monumental win is their first Olympic triumph in two decades, a feat not seen since they edged out South Korea 68-64 at the Athens 2004 Games.
Under the leadership of head coach Rena Wakama, D’Tigress showcased remarkable talent, spearheaded by star forward Amy Okonkwo, the MVP of the FIBA Women’s Afrobasket 2023, and the seasoned Ezinne Kalu, who continues to shine as a leader and playmaker.
Key contributions also came from Elizabeth Balogun and Promise Amukamara, both integral to the team’s offensive prowess.
Despite entering the game as underdogs, D’Tigress executed their strategy flawlessly. They focused on a controlled, half-court game, crucial for staying neck and neck with the formidable Opals. The Nigerian team’s defensive tenacity, particularly from Murjanatu Musa and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpannah in the frontcourt, was instrumental in dominating the boards and maintaining a tight contest.
HISTORICAL.
— FIBA (@FIBA) July 29, 2024
Nigeria 🇳🇬 D’Tigress win their first Olympic game in 20 years at #Paris2024 🔥#Basketball pic.twitter.com/8yRXUo4Mai
Facing a formidable opponent like Australia, who boast five Olympic medals, D’Tigress’s determination and resilience were evident. The Opals struggled to find their groove against the Nigerian defense, a testament to D’Tigress’s disciplined gameplay.
D’Tigress secured victories in three out of four quarters, starting strong with an 18-17 lead, extending it to 23-11 in the second quarter, narrowly losing the third 10-19, but sealing their historic win with a stellar performance in the fourth.
This victory is more than just a win; it’s a landmark moment for D’Tigress and a significant milestone for African basketball on the global stage. As they advance in their Olympic journey, D’Tigress carries the aspirations of an entire nation, inspiring future generations of Nigerian athletes with their unwavering skill and determination.
