Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, gave an improved performance in their second game of their US Tour against Minnesota Lynx but their best was not good enough as they succumbed 79-88.
The game though an exhibition encounter which is part of their high profile matches against some top WNBA teams ahead of their FIBA Women’s World Cup coming up later in Germany saw the Nigerian girls fight for every point.
D’Tigress showed greater cohesion and desire from the opening tip, as against the first game, matching the Lynx possession for possession in a fiercely contested first half.
The intensity of the game could be seen with D’Tigress taking the lead 42–38 In the second quarter, signposting their improved offensive play and defensive organization.
The lead was however short lived given the experience of the Lynx team as they regrouped after halftime, tightened their rotations, and executed efficiently down the stretch to secure the nine-point victory.
Ever reliable Captain, Ezinne Kalu, who delivered a standout performance with a game-high 25 points, led the charge for the Nigerian ladies, combining composure, perimeter shooting, and leadership.
Upcoming guard Gabby Williams added 16 points and contributed strongly on the boards, while additional support came from key contributors across the roster, reflecting a more balanced team display.
Courtney Williams inspired the Minnesota based team with 17 points, while rookie guard Olivia Miles displayed an all-around ability with 11 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
Though the Nigerian ladies have lost the two games played so far, but there are positives that gladden the heart given the improvement seen in the second game in the area of ball movement, defensive intensity, and ability to compete deep into games against some of the best teams and players in the world.
Up next for the D’Tigress will be the Indiana Fever on May 2, which promises to be another test match for the ladies as they continue preparations for the World Cup.
