Nigeria’s D’Tigress fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the United States women’s basketball team in a hard-fought quarter-final match at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The final score of 74-88 does not fully capture the intensity of the game, as Nigeria displayed remarkable grit and determination against the reigning Olympic champions on Wednesday night.
From the opening tip-off, it was clear that Nigeria, known for their physical style of play, was not going to be intimidated by the star-studded American squad. The early minutes of the game saw both teams trading baskets,
With D’Tigress holding their own against a team that has dominated women’s basketball for decades. The Nigerian team showed tremendous heart, matching the U.S. shot for shot in the initial exchanges, and making it clear that they were there to compete.
However, the United States, led by two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) A’Ja Wilson, began to assert their dominance as the game progressed. Wilson delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 20 points and pulling down 11 rebounds, providing the U.S. with a steady hand on both ends of the court. Her presence in the paint was a constant challenge for the Nigerian defense, as she showcased why she is considered one of the best players in the world.
Supporting Wilson’s efforts was Jackie Young, who contributed 15 points, and Breanna Stewart, another two-time WNBA MVP, who chipped in with 13 points. The depth and versatility of the American team were on full display, as they rotated through their lineup with little drop-off in performance. The U.S. team’s firepower was simply too much for Nigeria to contain, especially as the game wore on and fatigue began to set in for the underdogs.
Despite the loss, D’Tigress can hold their heads high after a spirited performance that earned them a warm ovation from the fans in attendance. Nigeria’s offense was spearheaded by veteran player Promise Amukamara, who led the team with 19 points. She was ably supported by Ezinne Kalu, who added 16 points of her own. Together, they provided much of the offensive spark that kept Nigeria within striking distance for much of the game.
The game was not just a showcase of the U.S.’s strength but also a testament to how far Nigerian basketball has come on the world stage. D’Tigress, who have steadily climbed the ranks in international women’s basketball, showed that they could compete with the best teams in the world, even if they fell short in the end. Their journey to the quarter-finals at the Paris Olympics will be remembered as a significant achievement, and it sets the stage for further success in the future.
As the U.S. moves on to the semi-finals, they will face a tough challenge from Australia, who secured their place in the next round with a convincing 85-67 victory over Serbia. The Opals, led by a dominant performance from Alanna Smith, who recorded 22 points and 13 rebounds, are aiming to return to the Olympic podium after missing out on a medal in 2016. The Australians, who won silver in 2000, 2004, and 2008, will be eager to reclaim their place among the world’s best and will provide a stern test for the U.S. in the semi-finals.
In other quarter-final action, France defeated Olympic newcomers Germany 84-71 to set up a semi-final clash against Belgium. The Belgian team, European champions, continued their impressive run with a 79-66 victory over a previously unbeaten Spain, ensuring a high-stakes encounter in the next round.
For D’Tigress, their exit from the tournament may be bittersweet, but their performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics will be remembered as a significant moment in Nigerian sports. They have not only represented their country with pride but have also inspired a new generation of athletes and fans alike. As they return home, they can do so knowing that they have made a lasting impact on the global stage, and their future in international basketball looks bright.
