Nigeria Ready For World Cup Qualifier In Angola

Nigeria Ready For World Cup Qualifier In Angola 

By Niyi Busari 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has urged Nigeria's senior men's basketball team, D'Tigers, to represent the country with pride and determination as they prepare for the FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers in Angola, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The qualification window is scheduled to take place from July 2 to July 5, 2026, with Nigeria aiming to strengthen its bid for a place at the next FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, expressed confidence in the team's ability to deliver strong performances, calling on the players to approach the competition with discipline, resilience and unity.

"D'Tigers have consistently shown that they belong among Africa's basketball elite. As they head to Angola, we charge the team to compete with passion, unity and unwavering commitment to Nigeria. Nigerians believe in their ability, and we are confident they will give their very best in pursuit of World Cup qualification," Olopade said.

Nigeria's final 12-man squad combines experienced internationals with emerging talents expected to play key roles during the qualification campaign.

The roster includes Chimezie Metu, Caleb Agada, Stanley Okoye, Daniel Utomi, Uchenna (UC) Iroegbu, Ikenna (Ike) Iroegbu, Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal, Wesley Iwundu, Christian Mekowulu, Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu and Michael Eric.

The team will be led by Head Coach David Fizdale as Nigeria seeks to maintain its status among Africa's leading basketball nations.

D'Tigers open their campaign against Tunisia on Thursday, July 2, before taking on Guinea on Friday, July 3. They will conclude the qualification window against Rwanda on Sunday, July 5.

The National Sports Commission also called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to support the team throughout the qualifiers as D'Tigers pursue another appearance at the FIBA Basketball World Cup.