By Samuel Akpan
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has urged Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, the D’Tigers, to fly the national flag high with pride and fighting spirit as they head to Angola for the FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers from July 2 to 5.
NSC Director General Bukola Olopade expressed strong confidence in the squad’s readiness, calling on the players to approach the tournament with discipline, resilience and the characteristic fighting spirit of Nigerian basketball.
“D’Tigers have demonstrated that they belong among Africa’s basketball elite. As they head to Angola, the National Sports Commission charges the team to roar once again, play with passion, unity and unrelenting commitment to the nation.
“Nigerians believe in their ability, and we are confident they will give their very best in pursuit of World Cup qualification,” Olopade said in Abuja on Wednesday.
Persecondnews reports that the final 12-man roster blends seasoned internationals with promising young talents, all expected to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s qualification push on the continental stage.
Key selections include Chimezie Metu, Caleb Agada, Stanley Okoye, Daniel Utomi and the Iroegbu brothers — Uchenna and Ikenna — who are anticipated to play major roles in Angola.
Completing the squad are Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal, Wesley Iwundu, Christian Mekowulu, Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu and Michael Eric, under the leadership of Head Coach David Fizdale.
Nigeria opens its campaign against Tunisia on Thursday, July 2, before taking on Guinea the following day and rounding off the window against Rwanda on Sunday, July 5, in what promises to be a decisive qualification window.
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