Nigeria’s D’Tigers moved closer to securing a spot at the 2025 AfroBasket finals with a commanding 87-67 comeback win over Uganda in their second Group B qualifier in Tripoli on Saturday.
Following their hard-fought 75-70 victory over hosts, Libya on Friday, D’Tigers overcame a sluggish first half to claim back-to-back wins in the final qualifying window.
Uganda controlled the early stages, winning the first two quarters 16-14 and 18-14 to take a 34-28 lead into halftime. However, Nigeria responded emphatically, dominating the second half by taking the third quarter 27-25 before completely overpowering their opponents 32-8 in the final period.
Caleb Agada led the charge with a game-high 20 points, seven assists, and three steals, continuing his stellar form from the Libya game. Ike Nwamu added 18 points, while Talib Zanna contributed a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for D’Tigers, who struggled in the first phase of the qualifiers in February, suffering three straight defeats that put their qualification hopes in jeopardy.
Nigeria will now face Group B leaders, Cape Verde on Sunday evening in a crucial showdown that could seal their spot at the 2025 AfroBasket finals in Angola this August. A win would complete a remarkable recovery for the team after their earlier setbacks.
