Nigeria’s U-19 women’s basketball team, Junior D’Tigress, have officially touched down in Brno, Czech Republic, armed with passion, purpose, and the full backing of the National Sports Commission (NSC) as they gear up for the 16th edition of the FIBA U-19 Women’s World Cup.
Drawn into a tough Group B, the Junior D’Tigress will open their campaign against Asia’s powerhouse China on Saturday, July 12, before taking on North American contenders Canada on Sunday, July 13.
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Their group stage journey concludes with a crucial tie against Portugal on Tuesday, July 15.
The squad, under the leadership of Head Coach Faustina Akhere Juliana and her assistants Nyingifa Atonye and Usuwa Chinedu Stone, has been lauded for their discipline and determination as they prepare to showcase Nigeria’s growing strength in global women’s basketball.
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, underscored the significance of the moment, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to leave a mark on the world stage.
“This is more than just a tournament; it’s a statement of belief in the future of Nigerian sports. Our girls are carrying the hopes of a proud nation, and we believe in their ability to compete, inspire, and achieve greatness,” Olopade said in a statement. “The NSC stands fully behind them.”
The Junior D’Tigress will be among 16 nations competing for the prestigious title from July 12–20, with this year’s edition taking place entirely in Brno, the Czech Republic’s second-largest city. It marks another historic milestone for Nigeria’s female basketball development, as the team prepares to face some of the world’s top youth programs.
With a blend of domestic and overseas-based talent, the Junior D’Tigress are not just participating — they are aiming to compete. Their performance in Brno is expected to provide a glimpse into the next generation of stars who may one day join the senior D’Tigress in continental and global competitions.
As tip-off approaches, all eyes will be on Nigeria’s rising queens of the court as they look to fly the green-and-white flag high on European soil.
