David Fizdale Begins D’Tigers Job With FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, will head to Angola with a 12-man squad for the third window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers, marking the first competitive assignment for new head coach David Fizdale.

The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) unveiled the squad ahead of the qualifiers, which will be held in Luanda from July 2 to 5.

Fizdale will rely on a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent as the D’Tigers steps up their bid to secure a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

The squad features Uchenna Ireogbu, Ikenna Ireogbu, Caleb Agada, Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal, Stanley Okoye, Daniel Utomi, Chimezie Metu, Wesley Iwundu, Christian Mekowulu, Akobundu-Ehiogu Kaodirichi and Michael Eric.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Guinea, Rwanda and Tunisia, with each fixture expected to play a key role in the race for qualification.

NBBF president Ahmadu Musa Kida expressed confidence in the team and welcomed Fizdale to his first official tournament in charge of D’Tigers.

He said: “This is an exciting moment for Nigerian basketball. David Fizdale brings exceptional experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of the modern game. We believe he is the right person to guide D’Tigers, into the next chapter as we continue building a programme capable of competing with the very best in Africa and on the world stage.

“We also congratulate the players who have earned the privilege of wearing the green and white. Representing Nigeria is an honour, and we are confident they will compete with passion, pride, and professionalism.”