Nigeria’s D’Tigress began their FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup campaign with a 99-81 defeat to South Korea in their Group B opener in Berlin.
The African champions stayed within touching distance for much of the contest, but a decisive fourth-quarter surge from South Korea ultimately settled the encounter.
South Korea came out firing, moving the ball quickly and finding space on the perimeter to take a 26-22 lead after the opening quarter.
Nigeria responded well in the second period, using their physicality in the paint and attacking the basket more effectively. D’Tigress outscored their opponents 23-22 in the quarter, reducing the deficit to just three points at halftime, with South Korea leading 48-45.
The third quarter remained closely contested, although South Korea maintained control. Korea edged the period 20-17 to take a 68-62 advantage into the final 10 minutes.
That was where the game slipped away from Nigeria.
South Korea produced a 31-19 fourth-quarter run, capitalising on turnovers and quick transition opportunities as D’Tigress struggled to maintain their defensive shape.
Nigeria’s live-ball giveaways repeatedly allowed South Korea to attack before the African champions could establish their half-court defence, while Korea’s perimeter shooting helped stretch the lead beyond reach.
The result means D’Tigress will need a quick response as they continue their Group B campaign against Hungary and France.
Nigeria’s strong second-quarter showing demonstrated the team’s ability to hurt opponents inside, but greater defensive discipline, fewer turnovers and more consistency across all four quarters will be crucial in the games ahead.
