Nigeria’s D’Tigers bowed out of the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket after a 91-75 quarter-final loss to rivals Senegal, with head coach Mohammed Abdulrahman and captain Ike Nwamu expressing disappointment over the team’s missed opportunities.
The 2015 champions had topped Group B with wins over Madagascar, Tunisia, and Cameroon, but faltered when it mattered most. Senegal, powered by standout displays from Brancou Badio and Jean Jacques Boissy, dominated the second half to secure a fifth consecutive semi-final appearance since 2013.
Coach Abdulrahman admitted his side fell short on the big stage but praised their progress: “On a night we were supposed to bring our A-game, we fell short. Senegal deserve the win. I am proud of how we played. We have an identity now, and we are building on it.”
Nwamu echoed those sentiments, highlighting the team’s frustration: “It hurts. We had high hopes and a really good group. But one team has to win, another has to lose. It wasn’t our day—they came out with more energy while we were flat to start. They’re a really good team with high-level players.”
Meanwhile, the National Sports Commission lauded the team’s efforts, commending their resilience and spirit: “Though the journey ends here, the lessons and experiences gained are stepping stones to greater achievements. Nigeria is proud of you, D’Tigers. The best is yet to come.”
