D’Tigress Qualify For Paris Olympics Despite Loss To USA
D’Tigress of Nigeria have qualified for the basketball event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite a 100-46 loss to number 1 ranked team, the USA in their FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Antwerp, Belgium.
A favourable result in the other group game saw Nigeria book its ticket after Belgium defeated Senegal 97-66. It would be the third time D’Tigress qualify for the Olympic Games.
“ANTWERP (Belgium) – Nigeria have clinched qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics and secured back to back appearances at the showpiece event, having also featured last time at Tokyo 2020….”https://t.co/kl9mtXuVgi
— DTigress (@DtigressNG) February 9, 2024
Mujarnatu Musa was the only D’Tigress player who finished with double figures in points against USA. Amy Okonkwo had nine points, while Promise Amukamara and Elizabeth Balogun both contributed six points apiece.
The USA put up a shooting masterclass to outscore Nigeria. Jewel Lyod recorded 18 points in the game, while Rhyne Howard had 14 points and Napheesha Collier contributed 13 points.
🇺🇸 USA grab another win in the bag and go 2-0! #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/odaukiX3b9
— FIBA (@FIBA) February 9, 2024
However, Nigeria clinched qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics and secured back to back appearances at the showpiece event, having also featured last time at Tokyo 2020.
Their return to the big show in 2024 might see them able to improve on two 11th placed finishes.
Nigeria defeated Senegal 72-65 in their opening game of the qualifiers, which gave a massive advantage over their West Africa neighbours.
D’Tigress will next face European champions and hosts Belgium in their final qualifying game on Sunday, February 11th.
#FIBAOQT NIG vs USA highlights pic.twitter.com/g4mMTBKbbN
— DTigress (@DtigressNG) February 9, 2024
