D’Tigers record third defeat against Cape Verde

The D’Tigers lost 78-62 to Cape Verde on Sunday in the AfroBasket 2025 qualifications, making it three consecutive defeats.

This comes after a turbulent lead-up to one of the qualifications in Tunisia, where they lost to Uganda and Libya in the past.

The D’Tigers  had a strong start, winning the first quarter 24-16, but they struggled in the next three quarters, losing 23-9, 21-18, and 18-11, in that order.

Devin Eke was the standout player for the D’Tigers versus Cape Verde, but his outstanding effort was unable to keep Nigeria from losing.

Fans have blamed the window’s repeated disappointments on inadequate funding from the NBBF, which led to inadequate preparation.

D’Tigers lacked enough time and money for preparation going into the Tunisian qualifications, which prevented them from being cohesive and consistent.

Regular turnover in the coaching staff has impeded the team’s progress and the long-term plan’s execution.

Despite the consecutive losses, the D’Tigers still have a chance to earn a spot in the Afrobasket scheduled to be held in 2025.

There will be one more qualifying window in February 2025, and the top three countris from each group will advance.

The Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) will have a critical chance in the next year to rectify the noted deficiencies and put in place a thorough plan to guarantee the D’Tigers’ success in tournaments going forward.

This entails obtaining consistent finance, assembling a solid coaching staff, and giving the players enough opportunity for training.

To compete at the top level and earn a spot in the Afrobasket is still the ultimate goal.