Nigeria’s D’Tigers delivered a commanding performance to go 2-0 in Group B of the 2025 AfroBasket, overpowering reigning champions Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles 87–66 on Friday, August 15, at the Pavilhão Multusos de Luanda.
According to FIBA.com, NBA star Josh Okogie lit up the arena with a sensational 33-point display, shooting 12-of-19 from the field and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line, significantly boosting Nigeria’s quarterfinal hopes.
Tunisia’s Omar Abada and Yacine Toumi each contributed 13 points, but their efforts fell short as the Carthage Eagles slumped to a 0–2 record in the group.
The D’Tigers started strong, racing to a 10–0 lead with early three-pointers from Caleb Agada and Ike Nwamu. Talib Zanna and Kaodirichi Akonbundu added points in the paint, forcing Tunisia’s coach Mehdi Mary to call a timeout just three and a half minutes into the game.
Nigeria played with confidence throughout, with Okogie scoring 10 points in the first quarter alone, helping his team to a 29–16 lead. He continued his dominance in the second quarter, adding nine more points—including a deep three-pointer and a pair of free throws—to extend Nigeria’s lead to 38–19.
Tunisia struggled to match Nigeria’s intensity, with their attempts to close the gap thwarted by D’Tigers’ stifling defense. Agada’s free throws pushed the lead to 48–27, but Tunisia responded with a Bilel Jeziri three-pointer and a dramatic and-one play by Jawadi, narrowing the score to 48–33 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Nigeria widened the gap to 63–43 with four minutes remaining. Okogie added 12 more points through aggressive drives, a three-pointer, and free throws, helping Nigeria maintain a 68–47 lead heading into the final stretch.
Okogie was the focal point of Nigeria’s offense, finishing with an efficiency rating of 32. His consistency will be crucial as D’Tigers aim for a deep run in the tournament.
Statistically, Nigeria outclassed Tunisia across the board—scoring 17 points off turnovers, 16 fast-break points, and dominating second-chance opportunities (9–4). The bench also contributed 25 points, showcasing the team’s depth.
D’Tigers have executed coach Abdulrahman Mohamed’s game plan flawlessly in their two group games.
Forward Devine Eke reflected on the team’s progress. “We feel good about the win. The job is not done, but I feel we can win this whole thing. We executed well, followed our coach’s game plan, and everyone played their role. If we keep that up, anything is possible,” said Eke.