Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, saw their impressive run at the FIBA 2025 Men’s AfroBasket come to an abrupt end after a 91-75 quarter-final defeat to Senegal on Wednesday in Luanda, Angola.
The clash, dominated by the Senegalese, marked a sharp contrast to Nigeria’s group-stage form.
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They recorded three straight victories against Madagascar,Tunisia, and Cameroon. Their flawless start had raised hopes of a deep run, possibly replicating their historic 2015 AfroBasket triumph.
However, Senegal, technically superior on the night, secured their fifth consecutive semi-final berth, ending Nigeria’s campaign.
Head coach Mohammed AbdulRahman admitted his team fell short when it mattered most but praised the players for their fight, attitude, and the identity they are beginning to build.
“On a night we were supposed to bring out our A-game, we fell short. I’m not taking anything away from Senegal, they deserved the win,” AbdulRahman said.
“I am proud of how we played. We have an identity now, and we will continue to build on it.”
Despite the disappointment, AbdulRahman stressed that the tournament offered encouraging signs for the future.
D’Tigers closed their campaign with four games played three wins in the group stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals.
