Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, tipped off their FIBA AfroBasket 2025 campaign in style on Wednesday, recording a commanding 77–59 win over Madagascar in Luanda, Angola.
Hoping to emulate the D’Tigress, who clinched a record fifth consecutive women’s AfroBasket title in Abidjan just weeks ago, the men came out with intensity and never looked back.
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The victory, played at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda, marked the perfect start to their quest for only a second continental crown, a decade after their maiden triumph in 2015.
Quarter-by-quarter control
The D’Tigers led from the outset, edging the first quarter 18–14 before extending their advantage to 38–27 at halftime.
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The third quarter saw them maintain dominance, winning 20–9, before closing out with a strong 22–13 finish.
Nigeria’s shooting proved the difference, converting 48% of their field goals compared to Madagascar’s 35%.
They also bossed the boards, pulling 40 rebounds to the Ankoay’s 31.
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Agada leads the way
Guard Caleb Agada was Nigeria’s standout performer, scoring a game-high 22 points alongside seven rebounds and two assists in just over 25 minutes of action.
Veteran Stan Okoye, a member of the 2015 title-winning squad, added 13 points and five rebounds, while Ike Nwamu and Talib Zanna chipped in with valuable contributions at both ends.
For Madagascar, Raharimanana fought valiantly with 20 points, but it wasn’t enough to trouble Nigeria’s depth and experience.
A tough group ahead
Drawn in a challenging Group B, Nigeria must also face defending champions Tunisia (Friday, 15 August ) and 2017 bronze medallists Cameroon (Sunday, 17 August).
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Interim head coach Mohammed Abdulrahman, formerly an assistant, is tasked with steering the team through this tricky group stage.
Nigeria’s AfroBasket history includes one gold medal (2015), four silvers (1997, 1999, 2003, 2017), and three bronzes (1995, 2005, 2011).
With NBA guard Josh Okogie spearheading their perimeter defence and a roster blending veterans like Okoye with emerging talents, the D’Tigers are seen as strong contenders.
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