D’Tigers of Nigeria, which is the basketball team of the country, is doing great in their preparations for this summer’s Olympic Games billed to be staged in Tokyo as they beat the United States Basketball team in a test game. Coach Mike Brown led side defeated the multiple Olympics gold medallists 90-87 at the end of the game to send a note of warning to their group.
Unlike the soccer team Super Eagles, the basketball team D’Tigers are doing well and beating one of the best basketball teams in the world has been raising questions if they keep up with the move. Nigeria was drawn alongside Australia, Germany, and Italy in Group B for the 2020 edition of the competition expected to start later this month.
Jayson Tatum fouled by Nigeria’s Ike Nwamu during a friendly game at Michelob ULTRA Arena ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games. Precious Achiuwa, Josh Okogie, Gabe Vincent, Ike Nwamu, and Chikezie ‘KZ’ Okpala started the game for the West African side against the US.
While coach Gregg Popovich started a strong team including Bam Adebayo, Damian Lillard, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Jayson Tatum, United States began the game on a good note as they port the first ball before Vincent replied in kind with the first three-pointer of the game as the first half ended 43-41 with the USA.
It was D’Tigers’ shot-making from three-point range that helped get the win. The team outshined the Americans and also outscored them to a 20-18. Miami Heat star Vincent recorded six of eight three-pointers and finished with 21 points, while Agada, who plays in the Israeli league, made three three-pointers and finished with 17 points.
Many Americans have been asking why Nigeria should win the game as it surprised them. One KFC Barstool posted on Twitter saying they lost to Nigeria. He went on to ask if Nigeria even have food, he will just go and watch UFC. A veteran Nigerian T.V host Frank Edoho replied to him, saying it should be a shame on him to lose a country he thinks does not have food and also if he goes to the UFC Nigeria is still dealing with them there.