Nigeria’s U-19 women’s basketball team, the Junior D’Tigress, concluded their inaugural appearance at the 2025 FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Brno, Czech Republic, with a 96-71 loss to China. This final classification round defeat placed them 12th overall in the tournament. This concluding game mirrored the opening match of the tournament where Nigeria had surprisingly triumphed over the same Chinese team with a score of 93-88. However, in this rematch, China dominated, effectively avenging their earlier loss and demonstrating a significant shift in momentum.
The game unfolded with China asserting control from the outset. They claimed a decisive lead in each of the first three quarters, outscoring Nigeria 26-14, 30-21, and 23-18. While Nigeria managed to slightly edge out China 18-17 in the final quarter, the earlier deficit proved insurmountable. Statistically, Nigeria attempted 79 field goals, converting 24, while China, with a more efficient performance, made 32 of their 67 attempts. The rebounding battle was close, with Nigeria pulling down 49 to China’s 48. However, China’s superior ball movement resulted in 33 assists compared to Nigeria’s 16. Both teams recorded comparable steals and blocks, demonstrating similar defensive intensity.
Nigeria’s individual performances were led by Idubamo Beggi, who contributed 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. Nora Ezike added 12 points and 9 rebounds, while captain Wandoo Hembam scored 10 points. Abigail Isaac matched Hembam’s 10 points and also grabbed 9 rebounds. Momoluwa Tewogbade rounded out the key contributors with 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists. Despite these efforts, the Nigerian team struggled to maintain consistent offensive pressure against a resurgent Chinese side.
China’s victory was spearheaded by Ran Kejia’s dominant double-double performance of 25 points and 13 rebounds. Li Yuqian provided significant offensive support with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Li Yonglin added 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Liang Yaqi and Wang Jiaxin chipped in with 8 and 7 points respectively. China’s balanced scoring and strong rebounding proved too much for the Nigerian team to overcome.
Throughout the tournament, Nigeria’s performance reflected a mix of promise and inconsistency. They showcased their potential with victories against China in the opening round and Argentina in the classification rounds. However, they also experienced setbacks against stronger opponents, losing to Canada and Portugal in the group stage, followed by defeats against Hungary in the round of 16, Korea Republic, and finally, China again in the classification rounds. This overall record of two wins and five losses highlights the challenges the young team faced in competing at this high level of international competition.
The Junior D’Tigress’s debut on the global stage, while ultimately culminating in a 12th-place finish, offers valuable experience and identifies areas for growth. Their initial victory against China demonstrated their capability to upset higher-ranked teams, while subsequent losses highlighted the need for greater consistency and depth. This inaugural World Cup campaign provides a foundation for future development and serves as a crucial stepping stone towards future success. The FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup will next be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, in 2027, providing another opportunity for the Junior D’Tigress to demonstrate their progress and compete for a higher standing on the world stage. The lessons learned in Brno will undoubtedly shape their preparations for the 2027 tournament.
