Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, faced a tough defeat in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, losing 74-88 to the United States on Wednesday night.
Despite the loss, the Nigerian team demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the game, marking a significant moment in their Olympic journey.
From the opening whistle, D’Tigress showed they were not intimidated by the formidable U.S. team, known for their dominance in international basketball.
Nigeria matched the Americans point for point in the early moments, showcasing their physical and aggressive style of play, which has become their trademark.
The U.S. team, led by two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player A’Ja Wilson, who recorded 20 points and 11 rebounds, gradually took control of the game. Contributions from Jackie Young, who added 15 points, and Breanna Stewart, another two-time WNBA MVP, who chipped in 13 points, helped the U.S. secure their victory.
The win moves the U.S. closer to potentially breaking the record for the most consecutive Olympic gold medals, a tie they currently hold with the U.S. men’s basketball team from 1936 to 1968.
D’Tigress made several attempts to close the gap. Promise Amukamara, who led Nigeria with 19 points, made a crucial steal and layup that briefly brought the deficit down, but each time the Nigerians gained momentum, the U.S. responded with a strong offensive run.
The Americans ended the first half with a dominant 14-4 run, pushing their lead to 52-33 at halftime. The third quarter saw the U.S. team extend their lead further with a 10-0 run, ultimately making it difficult for the Nigerians to stage a comeback.
Despite the loss, D’Tigress received a warm ovation from the crowd, recognizing their historic achievement as the first African women’s basketball team to reach the Olympic quarter-finals. Amukamara’s 19 points, along with Ezinne Kalu’s 16 points, highlighted the talent and potential of the Nigerian team.
The United States will now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face Australia, who secured their spot with an 85-67 win over Serbia. Australia, a team with a strong Olympic history, will present another tough challenge as they aim for their first Olympic medal since 2012.
