Nigeria vs Australia basketball saw a stunning victory as Nigeria defeated the Opals 75-62 in their opening game of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Paris 2024 tournament. The African team delivered an impressive performance, capitalizing on Australian turnovers to secure the win in front of a large crowd in Lille.
Turning Point
A pivotal moment came when Nigeria posted a spectacular 11-0 run to end the first half, giving them a 13-point lead heading into the locker rooms. This cushion proved crucial as the Opals closed the gap to a one-shot game in the final period. However, Amy Okonkwo hit a crucial three-pointer to restore Nigerian momentum.
Game Hero: Ezinne Kalu
While the entire Nigerian team contributed to the win, Ezinne Kalu stood out with 19 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. Kalu, who hadn’t represented her country since Tokyo 2020, was instrumental in the victory.
Australia’s basketball turnovers were a significant factor, as Nigeria scored 26 points off these mistakes. This was particularly impactful in the first half when Australia nearly handed their opponents a point per minute from turnovers.
Despite a slow start, Nigeria’s defense shone through, positioning them as a potential disruptor in Group B. This win marks only Nigeria’s second victory in the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, their first since defeating South Korea in 2004. It’s also their first win in nine preliminary round games, conceding fewer points today than in any previous competition match.
Australia, meanwhile, looked disjointed, with their guards struggling under pressure and committing numerous turnovers. This marks their second consecutive opening game loss in the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament and their first defeat against an African team in major competitions.
Comments and Reactions
“We stuck together and came together in adversity. This is what it is all about – you fight,” said Nigeria forward Amy Okonkwo.
Alanna Smith of the Opals acknowledged, “We turned the ball over way too much and were not ready for the physicality of the game. Turning the ball over was the crux of the game.”
Opals’ coach Sandy Brondello added, “We didn’t play Opals’ basketball and weren’t aggressive defensively. We have to be better and find a way.”
Key stats include Nigeria making nine 3-pointers, more than in any of their previous Olympic games, and Ezinne Kalu becoming the first Nigerian player to register a 15/5/5 game in the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament.
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