Post-Game Review: Nigeria's National Women's Basketball team made history with a 79-70 win over Canada, advancing to the 2024 Paris Olympics quarter-finals. Their relentless defence limited Canada to 19.2% from three-point range, and 16 steals led to 26 turnovers, showcasing their skill and determination.
Last Updated on
August 5, 2024
Ayo Biyibi
Staff Writer
In an extraordinary display of skill and determination, Nigeria's Women's team triumphed over Canada, 79-70, to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics Basketball Tournament. This historic win marks the first time any African nation, men's or women's, has qualified for the quarter-finals in Olympic basketball history.
A key to Nigeria's success was their relentless defence, particularly on the perimeter. Aware of Canada's prowess as the 5th best three-point shooting team in the tournament, Coach Rena's squad executed their defensive strategy flawlessly, limiting Canada to a dismal 19.2% from beyond the arc. Additionally, Nigeria's aggressive defensive play resulted in 16 team steals and forced 26 turnovers, showcasing their ability to disrupt Canada's offensive flow.
Nigeria's early game strategy paid off, as they opened with a 6-0 run. Despite Canada rallying to narrow the lead to 14-13, Nigeria maintained composure, ending the first quarter tied at 18-18. The second quarter saw Nigeria momentarily lose their lead, with Canada taking advantage to go up 41-37 at halftime. Key statistics highlighted Nigeria's first-half strengths and weaknesses: a 78% success rate from the free-throw line and effective defence against Canada's three-point attempts, but only five bench points and six total assists.
Nigeria's third quarter was a defensive masterclass. They held Canada to just five points while scoring 23 themselves, including an 11-0 run to start the period. Nigeria's defensive pressure forced Canada into seven turnovers, with Nigeria collecting five steals. This exceptional defence enabled Nigeria to transform a halftime deficit into a 60-46 lead heading into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter saw a back-and-forth battle, with Nigeria keeping Canada at bay. Despite a late surge by Canada, Nigeria's earlier lead proved insurmountable. Key plays included Amukamara's layup to extend the lead to 14 points and Ezinne Kalu's relentless attacks that drew crucial fouls. The Nigerian bench erupted in jubilation following a pivotal steal by Kalu, underscoring the team's cohesive and determined effort.
Nigeria's victory over Canada secured their place in the quarter-finals and solidified their status as trailblazers in African basketball.
[Photography Courtesy of The 2024 Paris Olympics]
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