D’Tigers Struggles deepen as Ikechukwu Nwamu blames poor preparation and cohesion for Nigeria’s slow 2027 World Cup qualifying start.
Nigeria’s D’Tigers have admitted to early D’Tigers Struggles in the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers, with American-born Nigerian guard Ikechukwu Nwamu highlighting poor preparation and limited team cohesion as major reasons for their inconsistent performances.
Also read: TOOF elevates Nigeria spotlight at Abu Dhabi Art 2025
Ikechukwu Nwamu said many of the side’s rushed three-point attempts stemmed from poor spacing and a lack of organisation brought on by minimal time together before the window began.
He explained that frequent roster adjustments since AfroBasket had left the current group resembling an entirely new team still learning to play as a unit.
In an interview posted by BballNaija on X, Ikechukwu Nwamu added that turnovers became inevitable when players were unfamiliar with each other’s tendencies, noting that execution often broke down under defensive pressure.
He stressed that improving spacing and decision-making would be essential if Nigeria hoped to regain momentum.
Nigeria sit in a precarious position in Group C after winning only one of their opening three fixtures.
Their campaign began with an 88-78 overtime defeat to Tunisia before a 69-55 loss to Guinea, which claimed their first-ever victory over Nigeria.
The sole bright moment came in a 75-69 overtime win against Rwanda, powered by a commanding 30-point display from Morris Udeze, the highest individual tally in the first qualifying window.
Despite the difficult start, D’Tigers remain within reach of the second round, with the top three teams from each group set to advance and carry results forward.
Only the top two sides and the best third-placed team across the next phase will ultimately qualify for the 2027 World Cup.
Ranked eighth in FIBA’s African power standings, Nigeria face significant pressure to rebuild confidence after missing the 2023 tournament and exiting in the first round in 2019.
Also read: ‘You’re reckless!’ Sports minister, Sunday Dare, in the mud after Mali replaces D’Tigress
Improving cohesion, Nwamu said, will be central to restoring the team’s competitive edge as the qualifiers continue.
