The D’Tigress of Nigeria have triumphed over the Opals of Australia in their opening match at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing a significant 75-62 victory at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium on Monday.
Under the leadership of Coach Rena Wakama, the Nigerian women’s basketball team delivered a spirited performance that marked their first Olympic win since the 2004 Athens Games, where they defeated South Korea in a classification game.
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Despite Australia being ranked third in the competition’s power rankings compared to Nigeria’s 12th place, the disparity in rankings was not reflected in the gameplay. From the onset, D’Tigress dominated the court with impressive teamwork and skill.
Key players Murjanatu Musa, Ezinne Kalu, and Amy Okonkwo were instrumental in Nigeria’s success. They showcased exceptional effort in securing loose balls and executing precise shots. By the end of the first quarter, Nigeria had edged ahead with an 18-17 lead, which they extended to 41-28 by halftime.
Ezinne Kalu was particularly outstanding, consistently sinking three-point shots, while Murjanatu Musa’s defensive prowess with blocks and steals created numerous turnovers against the Australians.
Although the Opals mounted a rally in the third quarter and early in the fourth, D’Tigress maintained their composure and held on for a historic victory. This win signals a significant achievement for Nigerian basketball on the global stage.
The team is set to face France in their second game of Group B on Thursday, aiming to build on their momentum from this landmark victory.
