AfroBasket 2025: D’Tigers Beat Cameroon 99–90 to Seal Quarter-Final Spot
By IDNN Sports Desk
The Nigerian men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, delivered a statement of intent at the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket by defeating Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions 99–90 in a pulsating Group B showdown in Luanda, Angola.
The result means Nigeria closed the group stage with a perfect 3–0 record, advancing directly to the quarter-finals. Cameroon, finishing 2–1, will head to the playoffs for another shot at the knockout rounds.
From the opening tip, Nigeria showed purpose. NBA star Josh Okogie (Houston Rockets) lit up the court, recording 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Guard Caleb Agada provided crucial balance with 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals, while veteran forward Stan Okoye added 15 points in a trademark all-around display.
Cameroon responded with firepower of their own. Williams Narace tallied 24 points, while NBA prospect Yves Missi impressed with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Despite their push, Cameroon trailed 55–46 at halftime and never fully erased the deficit.
“We knew Cameroon would come hard, but we trusted our system and stayed locked in,” said head coach Mohammed Abdulrahman after the game.
The win capped a dominant group run for Nigeria, who had earlier beaten Madagascar (77–59) and defending champions Tunisia (87–66). The victory also reinforced comparisons with the team’s 2015 championship squad — the only time Nigeria has lifted the AfroBasket title.
Statistically, Nigeria’s efficiency stood out:
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Field Goal Percentage: 52% (35/67)
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3-Point Shooting: 11/25 (44%)
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Free Throws: 18/23 (78%)
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Rebounds: Nigeria 42 – Cameroon 36
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Turnovers: Nigeria 12 – Cameroon 15
Observers hailed Okogie’s performance as one of the finest individual outings of the tournament so far, while Agada’s relentless play on both ends gave Nigeria an edge in crunch moments.
With the quarter-finals looming, D’Tigers are now regarded as strong contenders to reclaim the continental crown they last won a decade ago. The team’s next opponent will emerge from the playoff round, but the unbeaten Nigerians have already sent a clear warning to the rest of Africa: they are back to rule the hardwood.
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