D’Tigers beat S’Sudan, qualify for Rwanda 2021 Afrobasket

Nigeria started well and then stuttered before picking up again to survive a fourth quarter scare to beat South Sudan 75-70 in an Afrobasket 2021 qualifier played on Wednesday in Monsatir, Tunisia.

The result means that Nigeria has for the final tournament in Kigali, Rwanda.

The team avoided a last minute scare against a physically imposing opposition thanks to back-to-back treys from Obi Emegano to stretch D’Tigers lead to five points after South Sudanese opened a one point lead in the dying minutes of the game.

Nigeria, currently ranked number one in Africa, the stand-in coach Mfon Udofia led side scored 18-9, 20-21, 19-18, 18-21 in all quarters.

Ike Iroegbu emerged the highest scorer for the team with 16pts, 5 assists and 7 rebounds while Obi Emegano contributed 15pts, 3 assists and 2 rebounds.

Nuni Omot of Sudan was on rampage all night scoring 27points, but his efforts were not enough to rescue his team from going under.

Debutants, Chima Moneke scored 8pts while Amanze Egekeze had 5pts before coming off injured with a medical report being awaited.

Uche Iroegbu with 6pts, 3rebs and 4 steals continued the tradition of brothers playing for D’Tigers as he made his debut and played alongside his brother, Ike Iroegbu.

They join the elite group of the Aminus (Al Farouk Aminu and Alade Aminu)

Nigeria will face off against Rwanda on Thursday at midday.