Nigeria’s U-19 women’s basketball team, the J’Tigress, opened their FIBA 2025 U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup campaign in stunning fashion, defeating China 93–88 in a thrilling encounter on Saturday.
The match, which tipped off in the second round of group games, showcased Nigeria’s grit and resurgence as they overturned a halftime deficit to secure a crucial win over one of the tournament’s traditional powerhouses.
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Led by head coach Juliana Akhere, the Nigerian girls put on a dominant second-half performance, outscoring China 55–44 in the final two quarters to turn the game around. Their explosive finish capped off what is now being hailed as one of the most impressive performances by an African team in recent U-19 World Cup history.
The hero of the game was Nora Ezike, who delivered a flawless debut performance. The forward racked up 25 points, hitting all 8 of her field goal attempts and going 9-of-11 from the free throw line, anchoring Nigeria’s offense with confidence and composure.
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She received strong support from Idubamo Beggi, who contributed 18 points, while Tobenna Nweke added 15 points. Jessica Ajayi and Francisca Chukwu chipped in with 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively, ensuring a balanced team effort in the memorable win.
Quarter Scores:
Q1: Nigeria 16–24 China
Q2: Nigeria 22–20 China
Q3: Nigeria 23–16 China
Q4: Nigeria 32–28 China
Trailing by 6 points at the halftime break (38–44), the J’Tigress returned with renewed focus and intensity. Their third-quarter effort set the tone, before a decisive final quarter sealed the victory, leaving China reeling.
This five-point win over China not only marks a strong start for Nigeria in the competition but also sends a signal of the growing strength and depth of youth basketball in the country. Coming into the game as underdogs, few would have predicted such a bold performance against a disciplined and highly-rated Chinese side.
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The victory will give the Nigerian camp a huge morale boost ahead of their second group game, where they face another tough challenge against Canada U-19. That match is scheduled for 10:45 a.m. tomorrow (Sunday), as per the official tournament schedule.
Also on Sunday, China U-19 will hope to bounce back as they play Portugal U-18, highlighting a packed and competitive schedule in the second week of the three-week-long tournament.
Nigeria’s opening win is being celebrated across basketball circles, not only for the result but for what it represents—a sign of Nigeria’s potential on the world stage and a positive indicator for the development of the women’s game at the grassroots level.
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