Former D’Tigers player Stanley Gumut has praised Nigeria’s hard-fought victory over Tunisia in the FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers, describing it as the perfect start to David Fizdale’s reign as head coach.
Nigeria defeated Tunisia 84-81 in Luanda despite the team having just one training session together before the game, following the late arrival of players from different parts of the world.
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Gumut believes the result highlights the character and quality within the squad, especially considering the limited preparation time available to the new coaching crew.
“It’s a very good start for David Fizdale. The team had just one training session, yet they found a way to beat a very strong Tunisian side,” Gumut said.
The former Nigeria international noted that while the performance was not flawless, securing victory under such difficult circumstances was the most important outcome.
He expects D’Tigers to become stronger as the players continue adapting to Fizdale’s philosophy and develop better chemistry on the court.
“The understanding and synergy among the players will continue to improve. It’s still too early to judge this team because they’re only beginning to work together,” he added.
The victory has boosted Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, with crucial fixtures against Guinea and Rwanda still to come in the qualification window.
Gumut expressed confidence that D’Tigers can build on the win over Tunisia and grow into one of Africa’s strongest teams under Fizdale as the American coach begins a new chapter with Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team.
