D’Tigress make Nigeria proud at Paris 2024 despite loss to USA
In a thrilling encounter at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Nigeria’s D’Tigress delivered a commendable performance despite falling to Team USA in the women’s basketball quarterfinals. The United States secured a victory with a final score of 88–74, inching closer to their tenth gold medal.
The game was fiercely contested, especially in the first half, where Nigeria’s robust defense kept the scoreline close. However, as the match progressed, Team USA’s superior depth and skill began to tell. Despite the American team pulling ahead and nearly doubling Nigeria’s score, the D’Tigress kept the game competitive until the end.
Nigeria’s remarkable run in the tournament saw them make history as the first African team—male or female—to reach this level. Their performance in Paris has captivated basketball fans globally and highlighted their status as formidable underdogs.
Key players for the USA included A’ja Wilson, who scored 20 points, and Jackie Young, who added 15 points. The late-game surge from Nigeria helped reduce the deficit to a more respectable margin, showcasing their resilience and determination.
The game also attracted attention from basketball royalty, with LeBron James and his wife Savannah James in attendance, along with NBA star Bam Adebayo.
D’Tigress, led by standout performances from Ezinne Kalu and Amy Okonkwo, head home with their heads held high after a historic showing. Team USA will advance to face Australia in the semifinals on August 9, while Nigeria’s journey in the tournament comes to an end.
