D’Tigress tip-off against Opals in Group B

Nigeria’s D’Tigress are set to face Australia’s Opals in their Olympics Women’s Basketball Tournament Group B opener at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Monday (today), PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

As underdogs, D’Tigress aim to secure their first Olympic win in 20 years, representing African basketball with determination and resilience.

Head coach Rena Wakama will rely heavily on star forward Amy Okonkwo, MVP of the FIBA Women’s Afrobasket 2023, and the returning Ezinne Kalu, a proven leader and playmaker.

Alongside Kalu, Elizabeth Balogun and Promise Amukamara will be key to the team’s offensive strategy.

D’Tigress will also need strong performances from Murjanatu Musa and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpannah in the frontcourt to control the defensive glass and keep games competitive. Their game plan will focus on a slow, half-court game to stay in contention with formidable opponents like Australia, Canada, and France.

Australia, with five Olympic medals to their name, will pose a significant challenge. The Opals, featuring experienced players and a history of strong performances, will be eager to reclaim their place among the world’s elite.

The Nigerian team, under coach Wakama’s instruction, have shown promise in their warm-up games, despite losing to Germany and Serbia. The team, led by Okonkwo, Kalu, and the towering Lauren Ebo, is ready to give their best effort and make a mark at the Paris Olympics.

As D’Tigress take to the court, they carry the hopes of a nation, aiming not just to compete but also to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes with their determination and skill.

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