U19 World Cup: Junior D’Tigress Finish 12th In Debut Campaign

U19 World Cup: Junior D’Tigress Finish 12th In Debut Campaign

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigress concluded their maiden appearance at the 2025 FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Brno, Czechia, with a 96-71 loss to China in the classification round on Sunday, finishing 12th overall, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The two sides had previously clashed in the group stage, where Nigeria secured a narrow 93-88 win over the Asian giants.

However, in their second meeting, China turned the tables to avenge that loss with a commanding performance.

China dominated the first three quarters, winning 26-14, 30-21, and 23-18, while Nigeria narrowly took the fourth quarter 18-17.

Under the guidance of coach Juliana Akhere, Nigeria attempted 79 field goals, converting 24.

They also registered 49 rebounds, 16 assists, 13 steals, and four blocks. China, on the other hand, had 67 field goal attempts and made 32 shots. 

The Chinese also recorded 48 rebounds, 33 assists, 14 steals, and four blocks.

Standout performers for Nigeria included Idubamo Beggi with 18 points, five rebounds, and six assists; Nora Ezike with 12 points and nine rebounds; captain Wandoo Hembam contributed 10 points; Abigail Isaac added 10 points and nine rebounds; while Momoluwa Tewogbade chipped in nine points, four rebounds, and two assists. 

Nigeria played a total of seven matches during the tournament, securing two wins against China in the group stage and Argentina in the classification rounds.

Their five defeats came at the hands of Canada, Portugal, Hungary, Korea Republic, and China.