NBBF President Kida: 'Group of Death' Challenges and Inspires D'Tigress
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has characterized the 'group of death' involving D'Tigress in the upcoming FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup as both challenging and inspiring. African champions Nigeria are set to face formidable opponents France, Hungary, and South Korea in what is widely regarded as the tournament's most competitive group.
Kida's Perspective on the Draw
Speaking ahead of the World Cup scheduled for Germany later this year, NBBF President Ahmadu Musa Kida emphasized that D'Tigress are on par with their opponents. Through his media aide, Oluchi Tobechuckwu, Kida stated, 'At this stage of international competition, there are no easy opponents. Being drawn against top basketball nations such as France, Hungary, and South Korea underscores the level of excellence expected at the World Cup.'
He further highlighted the team's resolve, discipline, and championship pedigree, expressing unwavering confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion. The expanded 2026 FIBA World Cup will take place in Germany from September 4 to 13, featuring 16 of the world's top teams, an increase from previous editions.
Group B: A True Test of Character
Nigeria secured qualification as one of Africa's leading representatives and was seeded in Pot 2 before the draw. D'Tigress, known for their consistency and dominance within Africa, now confront a group that combines elite European structure with the tactical discipline characteristic of Asian basketball.
- France enters as one of the highest-ranked teams globally.
- Hungary and South Korea bring technical depth and competitive experience.
- This lineup makes Group B a rigorous test of character and quality.
Opportunity Over Setback
Despite the perceived difficulty, Kida stressed that the federation views the draw as an opportunity rather than a setback. 'D'Tigress are not new to overcoming adversity,' he said. 'Our journey in recent years has been defined by determination, unity, and a winning mentality. This draw provides another platform to showcase Nigerian excellence, inspire the next generation, and further elevate our status in world basketball.'
Intensified Preparations
In line with this commitment, the NBBF has intensified preparations by securing a series of high-profile international friendlies in the United States against top Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchises. These matches are part of the pre-season calendar and will provide D'Tigress with elite-level competition and valuable exposure against some of the best players and systems in world basketball.
Kida reiterated the board's dedication to ensuring optimal preparation, including high-performance training camps and increased international exposure as part of the build-up to the tournament. This strategic approach aims to bolster the team's readiness for the challenges ahead in Germany.
