D’TIGERS BEGIN AFROBASKET CAMPAIGN WITH CONFIDENT WIN OVER MADAGASCAR

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria’s D’Tigers started their 2025 AfroBasket Group B journey on a bright note with a convincing 77-59 victory over Madagascar on Wednesday at the Pavilhao Multiusos de Luanda in Angola.

It was the second time both teams were meeting at the AfroBasket since 2011, and once again Nigeria came out on top. Caleb Agada led the charge with a game-high 22 points, while Stan Okoye added 13 points, team captain Ike Nwamu scored 12 points, and Kaodirichi Akobundu chipped in 10 points.

For Madagascar, Sitraka Raharimanantoanina was the standout performer with 20 points, but his effort could not stop Nigeria’s strong push in the second half. Kiady Razanamahenina also scored 13 points and Mathias M’madi contributed 11 points.

The first half was closely fought, as both teams tried to take control. Agada, who is the 2025 BAL champion, scored 13 points before the break, attacking the paint, driving to the rim, and hitting midrange shots with confidence. Raharimanantoanina also impressed with 11 points in the first half, using his height and skill to trouble Nigeria inside and even knocking down a three-pointer early in the game. Nigeria ran away with the quarter 18-14.

The second quarter was tightly contested but Madagascar took it by 23-20

The first half however ended with Nigeria leading 38-37, thanks to Akobundu’s put-back dunk at the buzzer after Agada’s missed three-point attempt.

In the third quarter, the D’Tigers wasted no time in taking control, quickly building a nine-point lead at 48-39 through free throws from Akobundu and Josh Okogie, a jump shot from Zanna, and four more points from Agada. Although Razanamahenina’s three-point play gave Madagascar a brief lift, Nigeria responded strongly and stretched their lead to 55-46 by the end of the quarter.

By the fourth quarter, it was clear that Madagascar had run out of answers. Nigeria maintained their momentum, stayed sharp at both ends of the court, and secured an 18-point win to start their campaign on the right foot.

This result gives the D’Tigers early confidence as they look ahead to tougher challenges in the tournament.

They will face Tunisia in their second Group B fixture.