The National Sports Commission has congratulated Nigeria’s Under 18 women’s basketball team, the Junior D’Tigress, after they sealed qualification for the 2027 FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in China.
The Nigerian girls produced a gritty display in their semi final clash against hosts Côte d’Ivoire at the FIBA U-18 Women’s AfroBasket, edging the Ivorians 53-50 in a tense encounter.
That result not only booked Nigeria a place in Sunday’s final against Mali, but also guaranteed the Junior D’Tigress a spot at the 2027 world championship.
NSC Director General Bukola Olopade praised the players for their achievement, noting that overcoming the host nation in a challenging atmosphere demonstrated the team’s character, courage, and determination.
Olopade said the Nigerian girls deserve immense credit for rising to the occasion and securing the country’s place on the global stage.
He also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), led by President Engr. Musa Kida, for the continued progress recorded by the country’s national basketball teams, especially the women’s sides.
Olopade urged the Junior D’Tigress to maintain their focus and fighting spirit as they take on Mali in Sunday’s final, assuring them of the Commission’s support in their quest to crown the campaign with the continental title.
“The Girls have done very well to secure their place at the Women’s World cup in China next year which shows their commitment, patriotism and discipline. Now that the World cup ticket has been secured, I have no doubt that they can win the Afrobasket in Sunday’s final against Mali,” Olopade told NSC media.
“As we have always done with every other sports, I want to assure the girls and the NBBF that the NSC will ensure they get the best of preparations ahead of the World cup in China. We will work closely with the NBBF to make sure the girls have an impactful campaign at the World cup.”
The Junior D’Tigress now shift their attention to the final against Mali, with the NSC promising the necessary preparations to ensure a strong showing at the World Cup in China.
