Oyedeji urges D’Tigress to move past Korea defeat, focus on Philippines clash
By Tosin Omojola
NBA and FIBA ambassador Olumide Oyedeji, a leading candidate for the presidency of the Nigeria Basketball Federation, has called on D’Tigress to put behind them the 77–60 defeat to South Korea at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament 2026 in France, but to remain focused ahead of their next game.
Speaking after the game played at the Astroballe, Oyedeji praised the Nigerian women for their effort despite the loss, insisting the setback does not diminish their quality or World Cup readiness.
“You put in the right shift and energy, but it fell short of your usual touch,” he said. “But you were not bruised beyond a comeback.”
He emphasized that the team must channel their attention toward their upcoming fixture. “The next game is what you girls need to be concerned with, that is to take down the Philippines,” Oyedeji added.
The former D’Tigers captain described the Qualifying Tournament as “a warm-up business” for D’Tigress, who have already secured their place at the 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany this September.
“We are proud of your achievements and will continue to support you as you continue to put Nigeria on the global basketball map,” he said, reaffirming his confidence in the reigning African champions.
Though Nigeria fell behind after Korea’s decisive 15–0 first-quarter run and couldn’t recover, Oyedeji stressed that the bigger picture remains intact, a strong World Cup campaign and maintaining Nigeria’s rising presence in global basketball.
