FIBA U-18 AfroBasket;
Junior D’Tigress Reach Final, Secure 2027 World Cup Ticket
Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigress have qualified for the 2027 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup after defeating hosts Côte d’Ivoire 53-50 in a thrilling semi-final at the FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan.
The victory also booked Nigeria a place in the 2026 FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket final, where they will face defending champions Mali.
It is the second consecutive time the Junior D’Tigress have reached the continental final.
Junior D’Tigress 53-50 Côte d’Ivoire
Nigeria made a strong start, edging the first quarter 12-11 before extending their advantage to 27-23 at halftime.
The hosts responded in the third quarter, winning the period 16-14 to reduce Nigeria’s lead to two points.
However, the Junior D’Tigress remained composed when it mattered most, winning the final quarter 12-11 to seal a hard-fought three-point victory.
Oluwatobiloba Owolabi played a decisive role in the closing stages, producing crucial shots and helping Nigeria protect their narrow lead.
World Cup Ticket Secured
By reaching the final, Nigeria secured one of Africa’s two qualification places for the 2027 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup.
The qualification continues Nigeria’s strong presence at the global youth level and gives the Junior D’Tigress another opportunity to compete against the best young teams in the world.
The Junior D’Tigress will now battle Mali for the African title, with Nigeria hoping to crown their impressive campaign with gold.
The final will also give Nigeria an opportunity to avenge their previous final defeat and claim their first FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket title.
