Nigeria makes history at U-18 AfroBasket, reaches semifinals for first time in 14 years

Nigeria’s U-18 women’s basketball team made history by defeating Egypt 66-51 to advance to the semifinals of the 2024 FIBA U-18 Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Pretoria, South Africa, on Wednesday. This marks the first time in 14 years that Nigeria has reached this stage of the tournament.

Facing off against Egypt, two-time champions and last edition’s silver medalists, the Nigerian team, known as the J’Tigress, displayed impressive form throughout the game. Nigeria dominated the first quarter, racing to a 24-13 lead, and carried their momentum into halftime with a 37-23 advantage. Despite Egypt’s efforts to claw back into the game, the Nigerian ladies held firm, winning the third quarter 17-13. Although Egypt won the final quarter 15-13, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

Leading the charge for Nigeria was Abigail Isaac, who scored 15 points, while Idubamo Beggi contributed 13 points and pulled down seven rebounds. Their strong performance helped Nigeria exact revenge on Egypt, who had beaten them 72-60 in the group stage earlier in the tournament.

This victory not only secured Nigeria’s spot in the semifinals but also positioned the team one step closer to qualification for the FIBA U-19 Women’s World Cup. The U-18 AfroBasket serves as a key qualifying event for the prestigious global competition.

In another quarterfinal match, Mali dispatched Rwanda to book their semifinal ticket. Mali’s dominant performance saw them win the game 86-57, continuing their quest for the championship.

As the J’Tigress prepare for their semifinal clash against Uganda on Friday, Nigerian basketball fans are hopeful that the team can continue their historic run and secure a place in the final.

This success also highlights a landmark moment for Nigerian basketball, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams reaching the quarterfinals of the African U-18 basketball championships, a feat never before achieved by the country.