Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, commenced their 2025 AfroBasket campaign in style with a convincing 77–59 victory over Madagascar in Luanda, Angola, yesterday .
The win marks a positive start for the 2015 champions as they aim to reclaim the continental title. The game opened with a strong performance from both teams, but the Nigerian side secured the first quarter 18–14.
Madagascar fought back in the second quarter, edging it 23–20, but D’Tigers maintained a narrow halftime lead of 38–37.
In the second half, the Nigerian team shifted gears, displaying defensive discipline, swift ball movement, and efficient shooting. They dominated the third quarter 17–9, building a comfortable lead before sealing the contest with a 22–13 surge in the final quarter.
Caleb Agada led from the front with a stellar all-round performance, finishing with 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals. Stan Okoye contributed 13 points, while Ike Nwamu added 12 points, with the trio’s leadership and experience proving pivotal in rallying the team through the decisive stages.
Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, praised the team’s resilience and composure, particularly in the third and fourth quarters, where Nigeria’s tactical adjustments effectively disrupted Madagascar’s scoring rhythm.
With this victory, D’Tigers now set their sights on their next challenge: a heavyweight clash against defending champions Tunisia on Friday. They will conclude their group stage fixtures against Cameroon on Sunday.
