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By Joe Apu
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has announced a 12-man D’Tigers squad for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 African Qualifiers (Window 3), with newly appointed head coach David Fizdale set to make his competitive debut in charge of the national team.
The qualifiers will take place in Luanda, Angola, from July 2 to 5, with Nigeria aiming to strengthen its bid for a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Fizdale, who brings decades of NBA coaching experience, will oversee a squad that blends experienced internationals with emerging talents as D’Tigers begin a new chapter under his leadership.
The team comprises Uchenna Ireogbu, Ikenna Ireogbu, Caleb Agada, Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal, 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, with each fixture crucial as the qualifying campaign reaches a decisive stage.
NBBF President, Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, expressed confidence in both the team and the new coach.
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“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,” Kida said.
He also congratulated the players selected to represent Nigeria.
“We 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.”
According to the federation, Fizdale’s appointment reflects its commitment to attracting world-class coaching while building a sustainable high-performance environment for the country’s senior national teams.
The former NBA coach succeeds Mike Brown, whose tenure helped elevate Nigerian basketball on the international stage and laid the foundation for future success.
Nigeria will begin its Window 3 campaign against Guinea on July 3 before taking on Rwanda on July 5 in Luanda.
The NBBF has called on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to rally behind D’Tigers as they continue their quest to secure qualification for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
