FIBA Africa Zone 3 U18 Women's Afrobasket Qualifiers Game Review: Nigeria's U18 Women's team crushed Côte d'Ivoire 94-23 in the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Qualifiers, securing their place in the U18 AfroBasket Championship and demonstrated their team's 2-way abilities, from their aggressive defence to their balanced offence.
Last Updated on
August 5, 2024
Elango Mbotona
Staff Writer
In a spectacular display of skill and dominance, Nigeria's U18 Women's team delivered a 94-23 victory over Côte d'Ivoire on the final day of the FIBA Africa Zone 3 U18 Women's AfroBasket Qualifiers. This emphatic win not only sealed their place in the U18 AfroBasket Championship in South Africa but also underscored Nigeria's prowess as a formidable contender in the tournament.
Nigeria set the tone from the opening tip-off, taking immediate control of the game with an aggressive, high-energy approach. Their defence was impenetrable, allowing Côte d'Ivoire to score only 2 points while amassing a 22-point lead by the end of the first quarter. Nigeria's defensive intensity forced numerous turnovers, which they converted into fast-break points, setting the stage for a dominant performance.
The second quarter saw Nigeria continuing their relentless attack, further extending their lead to 41-7 by halftime. Their offensive execution was not just precise, but also strategic, with excellent ball movement and a balanced scoring effort. Nigeria’s ability to find open shots and capitalise on Côte d'Ivoire's defensive lapses highlighted their superior tactical execution and teamwork.
Nigeria maintained their momentum into the second half, showing no signs of slowing down. Their defensive pressure continued to stifle Côte d'Ivoire's offence, while their scoring remained consistent and effective. The Nigerian team's high level of play was sustained throughout the game.
In the final quarter, Nigeria sealed their victory with style, closing the game with a resounding 94-23 scoreline. Their dominance on both ends of the court left Côte d'Ivoire with little opportunity to mount any comeback, solidifying Nigeria's position as a top team heading into the U18 AfroBasket Championship.
Several key players' had standout performances for Nigeria. Each contributed to the team's success through scoring, playmaking, and defence. Their collective effort and cohesion were instrumental in their dominant performance, showcasing the depth and talent within the squad.
Nigeria's overwhelming 94-23 win over Côte d'Ivoire on the final day of the FIBA Africa Zone 3 U18 Women's AfroBasket Qualifiers highlights their strength and readiness for the upcoming championship in South Africa. This decisive victory underscores Nigeria's potential to excel on the continental stage, as they continue to impress in the U18 AfroBasket Championship. Côte d'Ivoire, despite the loss, gained valuable experience and insights to build upon for future competitions.
[Photography Courtesy of the FIBB]
