LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, have officially unveiled their 12-man roster for the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers in Angola.
D’Tigers roster which was announced on the team’s social media page blends seasoned professionals with emerging talents.
Veteran NBA coach David Fizdale, who previously led the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks, will lead D’Tigers currently placed third in Group C behind Guinea and Tunisia.
He will be supported by assistants David Vanterpool, Ekpe Udoh, Caesar Adim, and Deji Akindele.
Meanwhile, the roster features standout names such as Chimezie Metu, Stan Okoye, and Ike Iroegbu.
Fans were especially jubilant for the return of Openjobmetis Varese point guard Iroegbu and FC Barcelona’s Metu.
Rising stars like Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu and Daniel Utomi have also been named for the qualifiers.
The squad also boasts versatile players like Caleb Agada, Uchenna Iroegbu, Christian Mekowulu, and Wesley Iwundu, whose defensive grit and offensive flair will be crucial in the qualifiers.
Veterans Michael Eric and Martins Igbanu add depth to the frontcourt, while Paul Dibal completes the lineup.
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The qualifiers which will kick off on Thursday, July 2 will see Nigeria take on Tunisia on the opening day.
D’Tigers will then face Guinea on Friday, July 3 before battling Rwanda on Saturday July 4.
The qualifiers represent a do-or-die opportunity for Nigeria in Group C as success in these windows is vital for advancing in the African qualification process.
