Nigeria’s D’Tigers got off to a strong start in the 2025 men’s AfroBasket tournament, securing an 18-point victory over Madagascar in their opening game.
Gatekeepers News reports that the match, played at the Pavilhao Multiusos de Luanda on Wednesday, saw the Nigerians dominate from the start, winning the first quarter 18-14.
Although Madagascar improved their performance in the second quarter, D’Tigers held on to a narrow halftime lead of 38-37. The Nigerians then took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring Madagascar 55-46, before sealing the 18-point victory in the final quarter.
Caleb Agada led the charge with an impressive all-around display, finishing with 22 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and three steals. Stan Okoye and Ike Nwamu also made significant contributions, scoring 13 and 12 points respectively. The trio’s leadership and experience proved pivotal in rallying the team through the decisive stages.
D’Tigers will face a tough test in their next match against Tunisia, the defending champions, in Group B on Friday. The team will conclude their group stage fixtures against Cameroon on Sunday.
Nigeria has won the men’s Afrobasket title once, in 2015, and will be looking to add to their trophy cabinet this year. The team has finished as runners, finishing as runners-up thrice.
