By Silvernews
President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Ahmadu Musa Kida, has praised the resilience and class of Nigeria’s women’s national team, D’Tigress, following their impressive 101–84 victory over the Philippines women’s national basketball team at the ongoing FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifiers in Lyon–Villeurbanne, France.
Kida described the team’s performance as a demonstration of talent, determination and championship mentality, especially after rallying from behind in the early stages of the encounter.
The African champions trailed in the opening two quarters, losing 21–26 and 21–25 to the Filipinas.
However, the Nigerian side mounted a strong comeback in the second half, dominating the third and fourth quarters 34–21 and 25–12 respectively to secure the 101–84 win.
The victory came as a timely response for D’Tigress, who had earlier suffered defeat to the South Korea women’s national basketball team in their second game of the qualifying tournament.
According to Kida, Nigerians are delighted with the team’s performances so far, noting that the players showed character by quickly putting the setback behind them and bouncing back in style.
“You took the unfortunate loss to South Korea as a mere blip and rebounded strongly, reassuring Nigerians of your readiness for the tasks ahead as preparations continue for the World Cup in Berlin, Germany,” he said.
Kida also urged the Rena Wakama-led side not to relent in their efforts, while reaffirming that the Nigeria Basketball Federation remains committed to providing the necessary support to further develop basketball across all levels in the country.
