Nigeria has achieved a historic milestone at the African U18 Basketball Championship in South Africa, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams advancing to the quarter-finals. This is the first time Nigeria has achieved this feat at this level.
The J’Tigress secured their quarter-final spot as one of the best third-placed teams from their group and will face Egypt in Pretoria. Despite a previous loss to Egypt and recent flu issues affecting their performance, the team is hopeful for a better outcome.
The J’Tigers’ opponents were not yet confirmed at press time.
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Ugo Udezue, a former D’Tigers player and current member of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, praised the teams for their resilience and progress. “Our players have faced challenges and adversity, and we are extremely proud of their efforts,” he said.
The boys’ team faced delays and financial challenges but is competing with private support. Two teams will represent Africa in the FIBA U18 World Cup in Switzerland.