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Of their first match on the ongoing 2024 Summer time Olympics in Paris, Nigeria’s feminine basketball workforce, D’Tigress, achieved a historic victory by defeating the Opals of Australia in a shocking 75-62 on the Pierre Mauroy Stadium at the moment within the Ladies’s Olympic Basketball occasion. This win marks their first Olympic sport victory in 20 years since their 68-64 win over South Korea in Athens 2004.
Initially underestimated, D’Tigress recovered from a gradual begin, successful the primary quarter 18-17. They adopted up with a powerful second quarter, outscoring the Opals 23-11, establishing a major lead. After the break, the Australians rallied, successful the third quarter 19-10. Nonetheless, Nigeria responded with a commanding fourth quarter, successful 24-15, sparking wild celebrations of their technical space. Ezinne Kalu led the workforce with a stellar efficiency, scoring 19 factors, grabbing 5 rebounds, and shelling out 5 assists.
Nigeria’s 11-0 run to shut the primary half offered a vital 13-point lead heading into the locker rooms. Regardless of the Opals narrowing the hole to a one-shot sport within the ultimate interval, Amy Okonkwo calmed Nigerian nerves with a clutch three-pointer. Nigeria made 9 3-pointers, their highest in any Olympic sport, and achieved 15 steals, equalling their earlier greatest within the competitors.
“It feels so good. We caught collectively and got here collectively in adversity. That is what it’s all about – you battle,” said Nigeria ahead Amy Okonkwo.
