NIGERIA’S D’Tigress breath-taking performance at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, came to an end on Wednesday night as they lost to eight-time Olympic and defending Champions USA 74-88 in the women’s basketball game decided at the Bercy Arena in Paris, France.
The Americans took the first three quarters in a tough battle 26-17, 26-16, and 24-15. The Ladies from the land of the energetic green and royal white grabbed the 4th quarter in a fascinating style and convincing fashion 26-12.
Final scores 26-17, 26-16, 24-15, 12- 26.
The Americans, who were taller and more physical, played a more technical game to come from behind to take the second quarter, ensuring they ended the first half at 52-33.
To reach the last eight, the Americans, playing in Group C, humbled Japan 102-76 and cruised past Belgium 87-74 before overrunning Germany 87-68.
On the other hand, Nigeria, which qualified from Group B, was stunned by highly rated Australia 75-62, lost to France 54-75 and lockdown Canada 79-70 to navigate their path to the quarter-finals.
Currently, Nigeria ranked 8th in the world and number 1 in Africa; D’Tigress’ journey in Paris has been imperial, encouraging, and equally scintillating.
The six-time African champions made history by becoming the first African country to reach this stage of the competition at the Games.
The US will on Friday meet Belgium in the semi-finals, while France and Australia will have a rematch of some sort in the second semi-finals on the same day. Australia defeated France 79-72 in the last Group C game.
Eighteen-Eleven Media