By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, ahead of the 2026 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers in Angola, urging the players to give their all in pursuit of a place at the global tournament.
The qualification window will take place from July 2 to July 5, with Nigeria set to face Tunisia, Guinea and Rwanda.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, charged the team to represent the country with pride, discipline and determination, expressing confidence in their ability to compete among Africa’s best.
According to Olopade, D’Tigers have consistently shown they belong among the continent’s basketball elite and should approach the qualifiers with unity, passion and an unwavering commitment to national success.
Nigeria’s final 12-man squad combines experienced internationals with emerging talents as the team looks to strengthen its World Cup qualification campaign.
The squad 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.
D’Tigers will 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 NSC also called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to support the national team as it seeks to secure qualification for the next FIBA Basketball World Cup.
