FIBA U-18 Afrobasket: Nigeria advances to knockout stage after 72-61 victory over Uganda
Nigeria’s youth men’s basketball team has continued to make waves in the FIBA U-18 Afrobasket tournament, defeating Uganda 72-61 in their second group game on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
The victory came despite early challenges, including visa issues caused by the South African embassy, which affected the team’s preparations.
In their opening game of the tournament, Nigeria secured a hard-fought 70-65 win against Angola. The standout player in that match was Azeez Olaitan Sulaimon, who posted an impressive stat line with 20 points, seven rebounds, and 10 steals, leading his team to victory.
Against Uganda, Sulaimon once again proved his worth, delivering another standout performance with 20 points, six rebounds, and eight steals. His efforts helped Nigeria clinch the 11-point victory and advance to the knockout stages of the tournament.
While the Nigerian boys continue their journey, the girls’ team was eliminated from the competition after a 64-80 loss to Uganda. The boys, however, remain determined, knowing they still have a lot of work ahead as they aim to qualify for the FIBA U-19 World Cup next year.
With two wins in the group phase, Nigeria’s youth team is poised for further success, but the knockout stage presents new challenges as they look to make history on the court.
