D’Tigers Qualifies for the Quarterfinals of AfroBasket Championship

The win capped a flawless Group B campaign, positioning Nigeria as one of the top contenders for the continental title.

The highly anticipated clash against Cameroon, both teams entering with two wins, was billed as a “winner-takes-all” battle for the top spot in Group B. The D’Tigers started strong, edging out a tight 28-25 lead in the first quarter. 

They found their rhythm in the second, dominating with a 30-16 run to build a commanding 58-41 halftime lead. 

By the third quarter, Nigeria’s relentless offense and sharp three-point shooting, led by Josh Okogie and Stan Okoye, extended the lead to 84-53. Despite a late 37-13 rally by Cameroon in the fourth quarter, the D’Tigers held firm to secure the nine-point victory.

Josh Okogie, the Houston Rockets guard, led Nigeria with 16 points, seven assists, two rebounds, and two steals, showcasing his all-around prowess. 

Caleb Agada contributed 15 points, while Stan Okoye added 14, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. Christian Mekowulu, Ike Nwamu, and Martins Igbanu also reached double figures, highlighting the team’s depth. 

Nigeria’s 57.4% field goal accuracy and 15 three-pointers outshone Cameroon’s 41% shooting, with the D’Tigers also dominating rebounds (37-31) and forcing 16 turnovers. 

Cameroon’s Fabien Ateba led all scorers with 19 points, supported by Yves Missi’s 18, but their efforts fell short against Nigeria’s balanced attack. 

The Indomitable Lions, finishing second in Group B, now face a playoff match to reach the quarterfinals, while Nigeria advances directly to the last eight.

The D’Tigers’ journey to the quarterfinals began with a 77-59 rout of Madagascar, followed by an 87-66 dismantling of defending champions Tunisia, where Okogie dropped 33 points.