NBBF releases D’Tigers roster for FIBA World Cup African Qualifiers in Angola

Editor

The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has released the 12-man D’Tigers roster that will represent Nigeria at the FIBA World Cup 2027 African Qualifiers (Window 3). The competition will be held in Luanda, Angola, from July 2 to 5, 2026.

The tournament will see the new Head Coach, David Fizdale, take charge of D’Tigers for the first time, bringing with him decades of NBA coaching experience.

Coach Fizdale will lead a talented blend of experienced internationals and emerging stars as Nigeria continues its quest to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

D’Tigers’ final roster includes Uchenna Ireogbu, Ikenna Ireogbu, Caleb Agada, Martins Igbanu, and Paul Dibal.

Others are Stanley Okoye, Daniel Utomi, Chimezie Metu, Wesley Iwundu, Christian Mekowulu, Akobundu-Ehiogu Kaodirichi, and Michael Eric.

Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Guinea, Rwanda, and Tunisia.

NBBF President, Engineer Musa Kida, has expressed confidence in the team and welcomed Coach Fizdale to his first official competition with Nigeria.

“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.

“The appointment of Coach Fizdale reflects the Federation’s continued commitment to attracting world-class coaching and creating a sustainable high-performance environment for Nigeria’s senior national teams.”

His debut follows the successful era led by former D’Tigers Head Coach Mike Brown, whose tenure elevated Nigerian basketball to unprecedented international recognition and laid a strong foundation for continued growth.

Nigeria’s games are slated for July 3: Nigeria vs Guinea, and July 5: Nigeria vs Rwanda

The top teams from the African qualifiers will advance toward qualification for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027.