Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, began their FIBA Men’s AfroBasket 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion today with a 77–59 win over Madagascar at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda in Angola.
The 2015 champions, aiming to reclaim the continental crown a decade after their maiden triumph, took control early, edging the first quarter 18–14. Madagascar rallied in the second period, narrowly winning it 23–20, but Nigeria still held a 38–37 halftime lead.
After the break, interim head coach Mohammed Abdulrahman’s side tightened defensively and found their offensive rhythm, dominating the third quarter 17–9 before closing out the game with a 22–13 surge.
Statistically, Nigeria’s 48% field-goal shooting compared to Madagascar’s 35% proved decisive, while they also outrebounded the Ankoay 40–31.
Agada shines in balanced team effort
Veteran Guard Caleb Agada led all scorers with 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals in just over 25 minutes. Veteran forward Stan Okoye, part of the 2015 title-winning squad, added 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Ike Nwamu contributed 12 points. Talib Zanna also made an impact on both ends.
For Madagascar, Raharimanana’s 20 points were not enough to overcome Nigeria’s depth and experience.
Officials applaud team’s resilience
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the team’s composure, particularly in the second half where tactical adjustments disrupted Madagascar’s scoring flow.
Tougher tests ahead
Drawn in a challenging Group B, D’Tigers will next face defending champions Tunisia on Friday, before rounding off the group stage against 2017 bronze medallists Cameroon on Sunday.
Nigeria’s AfroBasket history includes one gold medal (2015), four silvers (1997, 1999, 2003, 2017), and three bronzes (1995, 2005, 2011).
With NBA guard Josh Okogie leading their perimeter defence and a roster blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents, they remain strong contenders for the 2025 Afrobasket title.