Nigeria’s D’Tigers Knocked Out of 2025 FIBA Men’s AfroBasket
Nigeria’s D’Tigers have been eliminated from the 2025 FIBA Men’s AfroBasket after a disappointing 91–75 loss to Senegal in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.
The defeat marks the end of Nigeria’s impressive run in the tournament, following a flawless group stage campaign where they secured victories over defending champions Tunisia, Madagascar, and Cameroon to advance directly to the quarter-finals.
Senegal, who had two wins and one loss in the group stage, had to fight their way to the quarter-finals through a playoff victory against South Sudan.
The game started off on a positive note for D’Tigers, as they narrowly edged the first quarter 24–23. However, Senegal quickly gained control in the second and third quarters with dominant performances, winning 39–18 and 23–13 respectively.
Despite Nigeria’s efforts to rally back and claim the fourth quarter 20–15, it was not enough to overcome the lead Senegal had built. The Senegalese held on for a comfortable win, securing their spot in the semi-finals.
For D’Tigers, the loss means their quest for a second AfroBasket crown continues, as they have not replicated the success of their historic triumph in 2015.
This defeat also stands in contrast to the recent achievements of Nigeria’s women’s national team, D’Tigress, who recently clinched a record fifth consecutive AfroBasket Women’s title in Côte d’Ivoire.
As D’Tigers bow out of the competition, they will now turn their focus to regrouping and preparing for future tournaments in hopes of reclaiming the title they have been chasing since their previous victory.
