The National Sports Commission (NSC) has thrown its full weight behind Nigeria’s D’Tigress as the African champions prepare to open their FIBA Women’s World Cup campaign against South Korea in Berlin later today. Seeking both a strong start and a measure of redemption, the Nigerian side will be aiming to avenge the defeat they suffered against their Asian opponents during the World Cup Qualification Tournament in France earlier this year.
Under the guidance of head coach Rena Wakama, D’Tigress arrived at the tournament in high spirits following solid training camps and rigorous preparations.
Expressing absolute confidence in the squad, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade described the senior women’s team as a quintessential tournament side that knows exactly how to elevate their game on the biggest stages. Olopade noted that beyond his optimism for their success on the court, he is immensely proud of how the players continually portray Nigeria in a positive light through their stellar conduct, discipline, and patriotism.
“I have no doubt that our girls will leave everything on the court in every game, starting with today’s match against the Koreans. That is one thing you can not take away from the D’Tigress and their coaching staff,” the Director General stated, praising their status as true ambassadors of the country. He further urged the nation to unite behind the team, adding, “I want every Nigerian to rally round the team and put them in their prayers because they definitely need all our support to have a good campaign at the World Cup.”
Today’s crucial opener will mark the fourth meeting between D’Tigress and South Korea, with Nigeria currently leading the head-to-head record with two wins and one defeat.
Placed in a highly competitive Group B alongside South Korea, Hungary, and European powerhouse France, the Nigerian team has a clear objective. Under the tournament’s format, the top team in the group will advance directly to the quarterfinals, while the second- and third-place finishers must navigate a qualification game to reach the last eight. With the backing of the NSC and the nation, D’Tigress are primed to make their mark in Berlin.
