Following Nigeria’s monumental victory over the Opals of Australia in the opening match of the Paris 2024 Olympic basketball tournament, the D’Tigress could not replicate their strong form against host nation France, resulting in a 75-54 loss in their second game of the preliminary round at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium.
Point guard Ezinne Kalu was clearly gutted about the defeat judging from her instagram post earlier today.
“We lost a battle but not the war”, Kalu posted.
The 32 year-old was once again Nigeria’s standout player and the game’s highest scorer with 18 points while Murjanatu Musa contributed 14 points. Amy Okonkwo had a difficult game, scoring just six points.
Despite a valiant effort and a strong first half, the D’Tigress were unable to match the intensity of the French squad.
France jumped out to an early lead, capitalizing on Nigeria’s turnovers to build a nine-point advantage. However, D’Tigress rallied to close the gap, trailing 24-20 after the first quarter.
The French team continued their strong play, winning the second quarter 14-11 and thereby establishing a comfortable seven-point advantage.
Nigeria struggled from the field, shooting 37% (11-of-30) compared to France’s 55% (17-of-31). Both teams forced turnovers – Nigeria with 13, France with 8.
The French restricted Nigeria to just eight points in the third quarter while they scored 16, ending the quarter with a commanding 54-39 lead.
The final quarter was once again dominated by the French, who outscored Nigeria 21-15 to win the game 75-54.
D’Tigress’ next game is on Sunday when they face Canada who lost their second match against Australia, with Nigeria aiming to bounce back with a win to boost chances of qualification for the next round.
