UDEZA SAVES NIGERIA IN THRILLING BASKETBALL VICTORY

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria pulled off an incredible comeback win against Rwanda in a World Cup basketball qualifier on Sunday. The team faced defeat but was rescued in the final seconds by a stunning play from Morris Udeza.

Rwanda was aiming to beat Nigeria for the first time ever and they led by three points with only four seconds left in the game.

With Rwanda leading by three (61–58) and just four seconds remaining, Prince Muhizi fouled Udeza, who converted a two-handed dunk followed by a free throw.

Udeza’s free-throw sent the game to overtime where Nigeria outscored Rwanda 14-8 to secure the 75-69 win.

Udeza was the clear hero of the day, as he finished the game with thirty points, ten rebounds, and two assists. His thirty points were the most scored by any player in the first round of African qualifiers.

The win was very important for Nigeria, which is currently ranked eighth in Africa. The former African champions have faced many challenges recently and they struggled throughout this game against the fourteenth-ranked Rwandans.

Nigeria’s head coach, Abdulrahman Mohammed, heaped praise on Udeza after the game. He said he did not want to take credit away from the other players but he stated that the team would have been lost without Udeza, explaining that Udeza embraced his role on the team completely.

“He is always committed, dedicated and he is always ready,” the coach said. Every time he is on the floor, he gives everything he’s got. I would like to give him credit for today’s win. He’s been fantastic.”

Rwanda played this game without their key player, David McCormack, because of a foot injury. This result ends the first round of Group C games with Nigeria now holding a record of one win and two losses. Rwanda will return home with three losses.

The Nigerian team and its fans will celebrate this dramatic escape, and they will look ahead to the next round of qualifiers with renewed hope.