The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) on Monday officially released the D’Tigers final 12-man roster for the third window of the FIBA AfroBasket Qualifiers set to take place in Tripoli, Libya, from 21-23 February 2025.
The NBBF earlier in the month announced a 24-man preliminary roster for the D’Tigers, which has now been trimmed down by 50%.
The selected squad includes a strong mix of experienced players and emerging talents, all ready to represent Nigeria on the international stage.
Head coach Abdulrahman Mohammed, who navigated the D’Tigers through the first window, will remain in charge, and will be assisted by former Nigerian international Deji Akindele and Isikaku Ikenna Smart, an assistant coach with the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
The coaches and staff, along with the players, departed from their respective locations on Monday and are expected to arrive in Tripoli on or before February 18.
The team is expected to hold its first practice session on Tuesday evening, as they continue to put finishing touches to their preparations for the crucial games ahead.
D’Tigers final 12-man roster:
- Zaid Hearst (Zamora, Spain)
- Mike Nuga (Valmiera Glass, Latvia)
- Ike Nwamu (CCMB, France) – Team Captain
- Caleb Agada (Avtador, Russia)
- Ugochukwu Simon (Virtus Ragusa, Italy)
- Ifeanyi Koko (Rivers Hoopers)
- Ibe Agu (Customs, Nigeria)
- Abdul Malik Abu (Arriva P. Cukier, Poland)
- Christian Mekowulu (Akita Northern Happinets, Japan)
- Talib Zanna (KK Cibona, Croatia)
- Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu (Pallacanestro Varese, Italy)
- Jason Jitoboh (Vellaznimi, Kosovo)
