Nigeria started their FIBA U-18 AfroBasket campaign with a tough 70-57 loss to defending champions Egypt in Pretoria, South Africa, on Wednesday.
The Young D’Tigers arrived in South Africa just hours before the game on Wednesday after visa delays almost caused them to miss the match.
Originally scheduled for Tuesday, the game was postponed to Wednesday, giving the team little time to prepare.
Nigeria’s roster for the 2024 AfroBasket U18. Photo | X (Queenjohn4)
Azeez Olitan Sulaimon led the team with 14 points, four rebounds, four assists, and four steals.
Isaac Oluwatemitope Ezekiel added 11 points and eight rebounds, while Ekpo Effiong Bassey contributed nine points and 12 rebounds.
For Egypt, Mohammed Tarek Khairy Hussain was the standout player, scoring 21 points, with Omar Mowafak adding 15 points and 12 rebounds.
Nigeria struggled with their shooting, especially from three-point range, managing just 11.54%.
The Junior D’Tigers will now turn their attention to their next game against Angola on Saturday, as they aim to bounce back and secure a spot in the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup in Switzerland.
