Nigeria Rally Past Philippines In FIBA Qualifier
Nigeria Overturns Halftime Deficit
NIGERIA’S women’s basketball team, Nigeria women’s national basketball team, produced a dominant second-half comeback to defeat the Philippines women’s national basketball team 101–84 at the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne on Saturday.
The Philippines controlled much of the opening half, leading for more than 22 minutes and establishing a 10-point advantage in the second quarter. Nigeria, however, regrouped after the break and gradually seized momentum with a disciplined offensive display.
Third-Quarter Turning Point
Nigeria began the turnaround midway through the third quarter when they erased a five-point deficit with a decisive 17–12 run. A turnaround jumper from Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah levelled the contest at 67–67 and shifted the game’s momentum.
Guards Ifunanya Okoro and Elizabeth Balogun contributed nine points during the surge, while Promise Amukamara added two points and four rebounds to stabilise the team.
Although three-pointers from Janine Pontejos and Louna Ozar kept the Philippines competitive, Nigeria’s dominance inside the paint helped them edge ahead 70–67 heading into the final quarter.
Strong Finish Seals Victory
D’Tigress took full control in the fourth quarter with a decisive 9–0 run that stretched an 81–80 lead to 90–80. Balogun scored five points during the stretch while Nigeria’s defence tightened to limit scoring opportunities for their opponents.
Nigeria eventually pushed their advantage to 17 points in the closing seconds to secure a convincing 101–84 victory.
Balanced Team Effort
Several players delivered standout performances in the comeback win. Victoria Macaulay led the charge with 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two blocks in just over 21 minutes.
Murjanatu Musa recorded 10 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists, while Nicole Enabosi contributed 15 points and 12 rebounds after an early scoring burst.
The victory underlined Nigeria’s depth and resilience as the team continues its quest for qualification at the tournament.
