Nigeria’s D’Tigers lost 89-82 to Libya after overtime in their first game of the qualification tournament for the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket.
D’Tigers were behind for the majority of the game before an inspirational fourth-quarter performance edged the match into overtime at the Salle Mohamed Mzali Sports Hall in Tunis, Tunisia.
D’Tigers’ participation in the competition was not confirmed until a few hours before the match after the team had announced its withdrawal from the qualifiers on Wednesday.
The team cited “lack of funds from the government” as the hindrance, but John Enoh, minister of sports, intervened, and arrangements were made to ensure Nigeria’s participation.
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Only nine players from the 12 names on the team’s roster were available for the match against Libya, yet D’Tigers gave a courageous account of themselves despite the challenge they had battled.
The Libyans went ahead immediately after the tip-off and led 25-16 by the end of the first quarter.
Nigeria improved in the second quarter and shaved the lead to 40-35 at halftime.
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The Libyans extended the gap in the third quarter, but a sublime fourth quarter from D’Tigers forced the match into overtime.
Eventually, Libya’s advantage bested Nigeria in the extra five minutes of play.
Mike Nuga led the Nigerians with 31 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
D’Tigers will face Uganda in their second game on Saturday before playing Cape Verde on Sunday to wrap up the first window of the qualifiers.
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