Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, began their 2025 AfroBasket journey on a high, overpowering Madagascar 77–59 in Luanda, Angola, on Wednesday afternoon.

The 2015 champions, on a mission to reclaim the continental crown, started brightly, edging the first quarter 18–14. Madagascar responded in the second, taking it 23–20, but Nigeria clung to a slim 38–37 lead at halftime.

After the break, D’Tigers turned up the heat. With disciplined defense, sharp ball movement, and accurate shooting, they outscored Madagascar 17–9 in the third quarter to open a comfortable gap before sealing the victory with a dominant 22–13 final-quarter run.

Caleb Agada stole the show with 22 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and three steals in a complete all-round performance. Stan Okoye added 13 points, while Ike Nwamu chipped in with 12, their experience proving vital in closing out the game.

With the win in the bag, D’Tigers now brace for a blockbuster clash against defending champions Tunisia on Friday before wrapping up their group stage campaign against Cameroon on Sunday.