Head coach of the Minnesota Lynx, Cheryl Reeve, has praised Nigeria’s D’Tigress following their competitive clash during the team’s USA preparation tour.
Despite securing an 88–79 victory, Reeve admitted that the Nigerian side posed serious challenges throughout the game.
“They tested us,” she said.
According to the experienced coach, D’Tigress forced her team to dig deep and find solutions, particularly with their physicality and defensive intensity.
“They made it difficult,” she implied.
The fixture forms part of Nigeria’s build-up to the upcoming FIBA Women’s Basketball World Championship, and Reeve believes the game provided valuable lessons for both teams.
“It was a strong test,” she noted.
She specifically highlighted Nigeria’s defensive organization, praising how they remained competitive despite facing a top-level WNBA side.
“They stayed in the game,” she added.
For Reeve, such encounters underline the growing strength of international women’s basketball, with teams like Nigeria continuing to close the gap on established powers.
“They are improving,” she stressed.
The match also served as a reminder of the importance of preparation and adaptability when facing diverse playing styles.
“You have to adjust,” she said.
As D’Tigress continue their tour, performances like this are expected to boost confidence and sharpen their readiness for the global stage.
For Reeve, the message is clear.
Nigeria is a team to watch.
Because when a side can challenge elite opposition, it shows real progress.
And D’Tigress are proving exactly that.
