Nigeria's AfroBasket 2025 Campaign: A Blend of Experience and Youth

Houston Rockets forward Josh Okogie is set to lead Nigeria's national basketball team, D'Tigers, in their quest for the AfroBasket 2025 title in Angola. As the sole NBA representative in the squad, Okogie brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of high-energy play and relentless perimeter defense.

Key Players to Watch

• Josh Okogie: Known for his scoring and assists, Okogie averaged 12.6 PPG and 4.4 APG in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
• Stan Okoye: A veteran from Nigeria's 2015 AfroBasket victory, Okoye returns to guide the new generation.
• Ike Nwamu: A proven scorer with experience from the 2020 Olympics, Nwamu offers shooting range and composure.
• Devine Eke: A rising star who impressed in the AfroBasket qualifiers with averages of 22 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists per game.

Team Dynamics and Strategy

The squad is a mix of seasoned veterans and new faces, aiming to replicate their 2015 success. Veterans like Okoye and Nwamu provide leadership and defensive toughness, while young talents like Eke bring fresh energy and all-around production.

Tournament Schedule and Challenges

D'Tigers are placed in Group B, facing tough competition from defending champions Tunisia, Cameroon, and Madagascar. The team's preparation included two games against Guinea, with a win and a loss.

• Aug. 13: vs. Madagascar
• Aug. 15: vs. Tunisia
• Aug. 17: vs. Cameroon

The knockout phase begins on Aug. 18, with the final scheduled for Aug. 24 at Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda.

Historical Context and Ambitions

If Nigeria secures the title, they will be the first country to hold both men's and women's continental titles simultaneously, following D'Tigress's victory in the 2025 women's AfroBasket.

Nigeria Squad for 2025 Men's AfroBasket

• Josh Okogie
• Caleb Agada
• Ike Nwamu (co-captain)
• Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu
• Talib Zanna
• Stan Okoye (co-captain)
• Mike Nuga
• Devine Eke
• Christian Mekowulu
• Martins Igbanu
• Ugo Andrew Simo
• Emmanuel Omogbo

With a balanced team and a clear strategy, Nigeria is poised to make a strong run in AfroBasket 2025, aiming to reclaim their continental glory.