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Ezinne Kalu expressed immense joy following Nigeria’s remarkable 75-62 victory over Australia in the Women’s Basketball event at the Paris Olympics.

It was Nigeria’s first Olympic win in 20 years and their first victory in a Group phase game.

Kalu, who made a notable return to the national team after a three-year hiatus, delivered a stellar performance, contributing 19 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals.

“Our defense was relentless,” Kalu stated proudly. “When we are on the court, we smell blood. Nobody defends quite like us and that is what keeps us going.”

She acknowledged the challenge posed by Australia, noting their strong second-half effort.

“Australia came out in the second half with their veterans and an amazing coach who knows what she’s doing, but we kept our foot on the gas and kept on going.”

Reflecting on the importance of the victory, Kalu remarked, “This really means a lot for our country. Coming into this competition we were ranked 12th in the Power Rankings and Australia, I think, were third or fourth.”

“Today we made a statement that we are not going to give up and no matter what country we play, we are going to play our basketball.”

Kalu also highlighted the team’s unity and resilience.

“We are a family and sometimes you fight with your brother and your sister and then the next day you make up and be friends again.

“That is what we have been doing these past years. We have been trying to just stay together as a team and today proved that we can be great,” She concluded.