D’Tigress of Nigeria defeated the Opals of Australia 75-62 in women’s basketball at the Paris Olympics on July 29, 2024.
The victory marked Nigeria’s first win at the Games since Athens 2004.
Point guard Ezinne Kalu delivered a clutch performance, leading the Rena Wakama-coached team to hold off a late rally from the Aussies at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium on Monday.
Kalu finished the game with 19 points and five rebounds.
Her performance helped Nigeria secure a memorable win over the third-best team in the world.
Beginning of the game, Australia demonstrated significant urgency and dominated the Nigerian team in the opening minutes.
The Opals raced to a 13-5 lead with an early onslaught led by Jade Melbourne and Ezi Magbegor.
However, D’Tigress, competing in their second consecutive Summer Games, responded with a stellar performance led by Kalu.
They were ahead 18-17 after the first quarter, largely due to Kalu’s 11 points, which included three three-pointers.
Her performance was instrumental in securing their lead.
Kalu continued to direct the play in the second quarter, while Amy Okonkwo and Elizabeth Balogun further troubled the Opals.
D’Tigress surprised everyone by going into halftime with a 41-28 lead.
The Australian players’ astonishing 16 turnovers had a major effect on the scoreboard.
In contrast, Nigeria committed only eight turnovers in the first half.
The Opals, who have won five Olympic medals, needed to deliver a strong performance in the second half.
Despite the Nigerian players’ resolute defending, the Opals gradually reduced the lead.
Alanna Smith played a key role in their comeback effort.
After the third quarter, the Aussies trailed by just four points and had reinvigorated their chances in the game.
The final quarter turned out to be tensed.
With just over six minutes remaining, the Opals were only two points behind before a disastrous spell of play unfolded for them.
Smith, who had been outstanding for her team, missed two free throws, while Promise Amukamara converted both of hers for Nigeria.
Promise then assisted Okonkwo on a three-pointer, allowing the reigning four-time African champions to extend their lead to seven points.
The lead enabled Nigeria to control the game and comfortably secure the victory.
D’Tigress will face host France in their next Group B match on Thursday, followed by a showdown against world number 5, Canada, next Monday.
About D’Tigress
D’Tigress is the Nigerian women’s national basketball team, renowned for their impressive performances on the international stage.
Representing Nigeria in various competitions, including the Olympics and the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, they have established themselves as a formidable force in women’s basketball.
The team has achieved significant success, notably winning the African Women’s Championship multiple times, making them the reigning four-time African champions.
Their notable achievements on the continental level have cemented their status as one of Africa’s premier basketball teams.
D’Tigress have also made their mark on the global stage, competing against some of the world’s top teams. Their strong performances reflect their skill, determination, and resilience.
The team’s success is driven by talented players, effective coaching, and a deep commitment to the sport.
