Nigeria’s D’Tigress achieved a historic 75-62 win over Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Led by Rena Wakama, the team outperformed expectations, securing their first Olympic victory since Athens 2004. Murjanatu Musa, Ezinne Kalu, and Amy Okonkwo played key roles in the game.
In a thrilling start to their 2024 Paris Olympics campaign, Nigeria's D’Tigress secured a historic 75-62 victory over Australia's Opals on Monday. Led by coach Rena Wakama, the Nigerian team showcased a stellar performance at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium, marking their first Olympic win since Athens 2004. Despite being ranked 12th, the D’Tigress defied expectations, taking control from the outset and dominating the game.
The Nigerian squad, highlighted by standout performances from Murjanatu Musa, Ezinne Kalu, and Amy Okonkwo, displayed impressive defense and sharp shooting. Nigeria led 18-17 after the first quarter and extended their advantage to 41-28 by halftime. Kalu excelled with three-point shots, while Musa’s defensive plays created turnovers that disrupted the Australians' rhythm.
Although the Opals made a strong push in the third quarter and early in the fourth, D’Tigress maintained their composure and secured the win. This triumph not only represents a significant achievement for Nigerian women’s basketball but also sets a positive tone for their upcoming match against France in Group B on Thursday.
The victory is a testament to the team’s resilience and skill, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s Olympic basketball history.