Nigeria’s U18 Women’s Basketball Team on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, advanced to the semifinals of the Afrobasket for the first time in 14 years, following an emphatic 66-51 win over Egypt in Pretoria.

The Junior D’Tigress, who reached the quarter-finals as one of two third-placed finishers, started strong against unbeaten Egypt, leading 24-13 in the first quarter.

The Nigerian girls put on a show, as they rebounded well, applied pressure, put on a full-court press, woman-to-woman defence, had good drives into the paint and got behind Egypt’s defence, they also made good steals, and were quick in transition which left Eygpt open.

Egypt on their part had trouble handling the ball, but forced Nigeria to make fouls sending them to the free-throw line where they excelled.

The second quarter saw continued dominance from the Junior D’Tigress, as well as increased teamwork and unselfish display, giving them a 37-24 lead into the break.

In the third quarter, the girls struggled with turnovers and foul troubles but they continued to put pressure, keeping the defence tight, playing good offence, and making sweet ball movements, finishing the third with a 54-36 lead.

Taking an 18-point lead into the fourth and final quarter and having to avoid more foul troubles, as well as turnovers, the Nigerian side had to switch on their game management hats. They closed out the game on a strong note despite showing signs of fatigue. Egypt tried to get back into the game but was not successful.

Egypt who had earlier defeated Nigeria in the competition opener were on the back foot for the entirety of the game, as the Nigerian side made sure history did not repeat itself, exerting revenge on the Cleopatra’s. Abigail Isaac stood out with a double-double, scoring 15 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.

Egypt and Nigeria’s history dates back to 2010 when they defeated Nigeria by a point to win Gold, making the ladies in green white green, settle for Silver.

Nigeria who has never won a U18 Afrobasket title will look to outscore Uganda, their semifinal opponent, and have one hand on glory. Uganda previously defeated Nigeria 80-64 in the group stage.