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..David Fizdale set to make his debut as D’Tigers head coach
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has officially unveiled the roster of 12 D’Tigers players who will represent Nigeria at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers (Window 3) taking place in Luanda, Angola from 2 to 5 July 2026.
The tournament marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Nigerian basketball as coach David Fizdale takes charge of the D’Tigers, for the first time, bringing with him decades of experience as an NBA coach and a proven track record of developing elite talent at the highest level.
Coach Fizdale will lead a talented blend of experienced internationals and emerging stars as Nigeria continues its quest to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The final D’Tigers roster includes;
Uchenna Ireogbu, Ikenna Ireogbu, Caleb Agada, Martins Igbanu, Paul Dibal.
Others are 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, and each match will have significant importance as the qualifying campaign enters a decisive phase.
NBBF President, Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida, expressed confidence in the team and welcomed Coach Fizdale to his first official competition with Nigeria.
“This is an exciting time 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 lead D’Tigers into the next chapter as we continue to build a program capable of competing with the best in Africa and on the world stage.
“We also congratulate the players who have earned the privilege of wearing the green and white jersey. Representing Nigeria is an honor and we are confident that they will compete with passion, pride and professionalism.”
Coach Fizdale’s appointment reflects the Federation’s continued commitment to attracting world-class coaches and creating a sustainable, high-performance environment for Nigeria’s senior national teams.
His debut follows the successful era led by former D’Tigers head coach Mike Brown, whose tenure elevated Nigerian basketball to unprecedented international recognition and laid a solid foundation for continued growth.
The Federation believes the combination of experienced veterans, emerging talent and elite coaches will position the D’Tigers for continued success during their World Cup qualifying campaign.
As preparations conclude, the NBBF calls on Nigerians at home and across the diaspora to rally behind the D’Tigers as they proudly represent the nation in Angola.
FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers – Window 3
The venue is Luanda, Angola, scheduled for July 2-5, 2026. And Nigeria’s matches are scheduled for July 3; Nigeria-Guinea and July 5; Nigeria vs Rwanda
The top teams from the African qualifiers will advance to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
