Nigeria's Historic Run Ends with 88-74 Loss to USA in Olympic Quarter-Finals

Nigeria's Historic Run Ends with 88-74 Loss to USA in Olympic Quarter-Finals

Nigeria's groundbreaking journey in the 2024 Paris Olympics Basketball Tournament culminated in a courageous 88-74 battle with the USA in the quarter-finals. This match was a watershed moment, as Nigeria, the first African nation in both men's and women's categories, reached the Olympic basketball quarter-finals, marking a historic milestone.

Nigeria's Head Coach Rena Wakama's starting lineup featured stars Amy Okonkwo, Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Elizabeth Balogun, and guards Promise Amukamara and Ezinne Kalu. The USA quickly established a 10-4 lead by the midway point of the first quarter, prompting a strategic timeout from Coach Wakama.

Despite a momentary offensive revival, Nigeria's defensive lapses persisted, culminating in a 26-17 deficit by the end of the quarter. The introduction of the USA's 6'8" center, Brittney Griner, exacerbated Nigeria's rebounding challenges against their 6'2" F/C Kunaiyi-Akpanah and Murjanatu Musa, igniting a 10-5 scoring run that further extended the American lead.

Nigeria's difficulties persisted in the second quarter, as it managed only 16 points against the USA's 26. Despite veteran Ezinne Kalu's 3-pointer, Nigeria faced offensive inefficiencies and committed three turnovers. A late 5-0 run by Breanna Stewart extended the USA's lead, ending the half at 52-33.

The third quarter saw Nigeria's offensive woes continue, scoring just 15 points compared to the USA's 24. Despite three successful 3-pointers from Amy Okonkwo and Promise Amukamara, Nigeria's defensive efforts could not significantly reduce the deficit. The USA capitalised on turnovers, maintaining a considerable lead of 76-46 heading into the final period.

Nigeria tried their best to fight back into the game in the fourth quarter, outscoring the USA 24-12. Defensive adjustments led to five forced turnovers, and Nigeria cut a 25-point deficit down to 14 points by the game's end. Despite the impressive final push, the early lead built by the USA proved insurmountable.

While ending their Olympic campaign, Nigeria's overall performance throughout the tournament showed the world that the four-peat FIBA Women's AfroBasket champions are a team to be feared and respected on the global stage.

Their historic quarter-final appearance and competitive spirit against a powerhouse like the USA, Canada, and Australia have set a new benchmark for African basketball. Despite the loss, Nigeria's performance has earned them respect and admiration, solidifying their place in Olympic basketball history.

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[Photography Courtesy of The 2024 Paris Olympics]