Nigeria’s U18 Girls Basketball team, the Junior Tigress, delivered a good performance to secure a spot in the final of the U18 Afrobasket Championship, overcoming a determined Uganda team with a 71-67 victory. The semifinal clash saw both sides put up a spirited fight, but Nigeria’s grit and determination shone through, especially in the closing stages. The team’s ability to maintain composure under pressure proved vital in their success as they edged past Uganda to keep their championship dreams alive.
The victory not only earned them a place in the tournament’s final but also clinched one of Africa’s two automatic qualifications for the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup next year. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Junior Tigress, as they will represent the continent on the global stage. With the qualification sealed, Nigeria now shifts focus to a highly anticipated showdown against Mali, a dominant force in African youth basketball, in the championship final.
As the next generation of Nigeria’s D’Tigress, the U18 squad has already begun to leave an indelible mark on the court, showcasing the depth of talent coming through the national basketball ranks. Their resilience and skillful play have set a strong foundation for future success, providing hope for the continued rise of Nigerian women’s basketball on both the African and global stage.