Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, delivered an improved performance despite falling 88–79 to the Minnesota Lynx in a competitive exhibition clash on Monday night.
Playing at the T-Mobile Center, the African champions showed greater cohesion and attacking intent compared to their opening game of the tour, pushing their WNBA opponents for long stretches. The first half remained tightly contested, with Nigeria trailing by just three points at 46–43 heading into the break.
Veteran guard Ezinne Kalu was the standout performer, leading all scorers with 25 points while adding four rebounds and two assists. Her aggressive drives and perimeter shooting kept D’Tigress within reach throughout the contest.
She was supported by Gabby Williams, who contributed 16 points and seven rebounds, while Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah added 11 points and six rebounds. Uche Izuogu also made an impact with eight points and seven rebounds.
The Lynx, one of the WNBA’s most established franchises, pulled away in the third quarter, using their depth to open up a lead that ultimately proved decisive. However, D’Tigress responded with a strong fourth-quarter showing, scoring 20 points to underline their growing competitiveness.
The exhibition tour forms part of preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany, with the Nigeria Basketball Federation aiming to fine-tune the squad against elite opposition.
Speaking on the team’s progress, NBBF President Amadu Musa Kida said the tour reflects a broader ambition to build a stronger, globally competitive side.
D’Tigress will conclude their U.S. tour with a final exhibition game against the Indiana Fever in Indianapolis on May 2, as they continue preparations ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers.