By Ado Salisu
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has urged Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, to give their best as they prepare for the FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers in Angola from July 2 to 5.
Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver strong performances and boost Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup.
“D’Tigers have consistently shown they are among Africa’s top basketball teams. We expect them to play with discipline, unity and determination as they represent Nigeria in Angola. We are confident they will make the country proud,” Olopade said.
The final 12-man squad combines experienced players with emerging talents. The team includes Chimezie Metu, Caleb Agada, Stanley Okoye, Daniel Utomi, Uchenna (UC) Iroegbu, Ikenna (Ike) Iroegbu, Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal, Wesley Iwundu, Christian Mekowulu, Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu and Michael Eric.
The team will be led by Head Coach David Fizdale as Nigeria continues its quest for a place at the next FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Nigeria will open its campaign against Tunisia on Thursday, July 2, before taking on Guinea on Friday, July 3. D’Tigers will conclude the qualification window against Rwanda on Sunday, July 5.
The NSC also called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to support the team throughout the qualifiers.
