The Nigerian women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by qualifying for the quarter-finals with a 79-70 victory over Canada. This feat makes them the first African team, male or female, to reach the quarter-finals of an Olympic basketball tournament.

Nigeria, three-time Women’s Afrobasket Champions, faced a tough test against the North Americans, ranked fifth in the world. A win for D’Tigress was crucial as they sought to move past their loss to France.

The first quarter saw both teams jostling for ascendancy, ending 18-18 with nothing to separate them. However, the Canadian team came into the second quarter with renewed energy, finishing it 23-19.

Coach Rena Wakama looked to Ezunne Kalu to raise D’Tigress’ spirits, and she didn’t disappoint, rallying the team to end the third quarter as 23-5 leaders. Despite a late fightback from Canada in the fourth quarter, the Nigerian side held on to their nine-point lead.