D’Tigers Afrobasket loss to Senegal ends Nigeria’s semifinal hopes as they fall 91-75, with NBA star Josh Okogie limited to just four points

D’Tigers Afrobasket loss on Wednesday night shattered Nigeria’s hopes of another championship run, as the team fell 91-75 to fierce rivals Senegal in Luanda, Angola.

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For Senegal, the victory was sweet revenge, coming just weeks after their women’s side fell to Nigeria’s D’Tigresses. This time, the Lions roared with intensity, overwhelming Nigeria with power and precision.

The game started tightly, with Nigeria edging the first quarter 24-23. Fans briefly believed another semifinal ticket was within reach. But Senegal turned up the heat in the second quarter, outscoring D’Tigers 30-18 to take a commanding 53-42 halftime lead.

Things spiraled in the third quarter as Senegal stretched their dominance, winning 23-13. Although Nigeria fought back in the final quarter, edging it 20-15, it was a consolation. Final score: 91-75.

The biggest heartbreak came from NBA star Josh Okogie. After lighting up the group stage with 33 points, he was silenced by Senegal’s defense, managing just four points on the night Nigeria needed him most.

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Despite still leading Senegal 5-4 in their all-time head-to-head, this defeat cuts the deepest, ending D’Tigers’ semifinal journey. For fans, the D’Tigers Afrobasket loss is a bitter reminder that glory is never guaranteed.