Nigeria’s D’Tigress opened their 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup campaign with a 99-81 loss to South Korea in their Group B opener on Friday.
Nigeria stayed within reach for three quarters, trailing 26-22 after the first, 48-45 at halftime, and 68-62 heading into the final period.
South Korea broke the game open in the fourth, taking advantage of Nigeria’s 23 turnovers and hitting consistently from three-point range. Park Jihyun led all scorers with 27 points, while Leeseul Kang added 20.
D’Tigress captain Amy Okonkwo topped Nigeria with 20 points, and Murjanatu Musa pulled down 13 rebounds.
Nigeria will face Hungary on Saturday as they seek a first win to keep their hopes of advancing from Group B alive.
