Sensational Upset! Nigeria’s D’Tigress Shock Australia in Olympic Basketball Clash

In an electrifying play at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Nigeria’s D’Tigress pulled off a monumental upset by defeating Australia 73-62. This historic victory marks Nigeria’s first Olympic win in two decades and has set the stage for a thrilling tournament ahead.

From the opening whistle, the D’Tigress displayed an aggressive defensive strategy that left the Australian team scrambling. Nigeria’s relentless pressure and swift ball-handling saw them stifle the Opals, holding them to just 28 points in the first half. Ezinne Kalu spearheaded the charge with 17 points and four three-pointers, propelling Nigeria to a surprising 41-28 halftime lead.

Australia, the bronze medalists from the 2022 FIBA World Cup, tried to mount a comeback with a fiery second-half performance led by Alana Smith, who scored 15 points. Despite their efforts, Nigeria’s defense remained impenetrable. The D’Tigress managed to force 26 turnovers, translating into a dominant 68-55 shot advantage. As the game drew to a close, Amy Okonkwo hit crucial three-pointers, including one that extended the lead to seven points and sealed the victory.

This landmark win positions Nigeria favorably for the knockout rounds. The D’Tigress will face France on August 1, with the chance to solidify their place in Olympic history. Meanwhile, Australia will look to bounce back in their upcoming match against Canada to avoid an early exit.

Nigerian fans are celebrating this groundbreaking achievement and eagerly anticipating what’s next for their team on the global stage.