Nigeria’s D’Tigress won two quarters but lost to the US female basketball team after it finished at 72-81 in the opening game at the Tokyo Olympics.
D’Tigress led at the end of the first quarter 20-17 but took their foot of the pedal ending the second quarter with 15 points deficit, 12-27.
The US side continued their dominant display after the half-time break, in the third quarter, inspired by Las Vegas Aces’ Aja Wilson to run out with a 26-18 win.
Although D’Tigress won the fourth and last quarter by 22-11, the overall score meant that Otis Hughley’s side will need to improve in their next game where they face France.
Nigeria had a better free throw percentage (83% – 75%) and steals (11-6) but fell short in other game statistics.
Tokyo Olympics Nigeria’s D’Tigress
France based Point Guard Ezinne Kalu led for Nigeria with 16 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists.The performance was an improvement from the 93-62 loss suffered in a final exhibition match against the US team in preparation for the Olympics. (Vanguard)