By Aderonke Ojo
Nigeria’s D’Tigress suffered a setback in their second 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualification match, falling to South Korea on March 12, 2026.
The Nigerian side had earlier delivered an impressive 70–37 victory over Colombia in their opening game.
However, against South Korea, the team struggled with foul trouble and an off night from some key players, allowing their opponents to capitalize on efficient three-point shooting.
South Korea held a narrow 36–32 lead at halftime and maintained control in the second half to secure the win.
Reacting to the defeat, Mark Igoche, promoter of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, encouraged the team not to lose confidence.
“Don’t let this setback bring you down,” Igoche said. “As I always say, champions aren’t made in the wins they are made in the losses.
You are already shown your strength against Colombia, and now it’s time to regroup and refocus.”
He further urged the team to draw motivation from the loss.
“Fall down seven times, stand up eight. Let’s use this as fuel to propel us forward. You are not just playing for Nigeria you are playing for the future of Nigerian basketball.
Dust yourselves off and get ready for the next one. The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. Let’s rise, D’Tigress!”
The team, led by head coach Rena Wakama, will aim to bounce back in their upcoming qualification matches against the Philippines, France, and Germany.
