FIBA WWCQ: D’Tigress Beat Philippines

FIBA WWCQ: D’Tigress Rally To Beat Philippines

Sampson Adedeji

D’Tigress produced a dominant second-half performance to overturn a double-digit deficit and defeat the Philippines 101–84 in their Group A clash at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in France, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The game, played on Saturday, at the Astroballe in Villeurbanne, saw the Philippines control proceedings for much of the first half, leading for more than 22 minutes and building a 10-point advantage.

Nigeria, however, turned the game around after the break. 

With both teams exchanging the lead in a closely contested encounter that featured 12 lead changes, the African champions eventually pulled away in the final quarter to secure a convincing victory.

Midway through the third quarter, Nigeria wiped out a five-point deficit with a 17–12 run, levelling the game at 67–67 after a turnaround jump shot by Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah with 3:06 left in the period.

Guards Ifunanya Okoro and Elizabeth Balogun combined for nine points during the surge, while Promise Amukamara contributed four rebounds and two points to help steady the team.

The Philippines attempted to respond through three-pointers from Janine Pontejos and Louna Ozar, but Nigeria’s aggressive inside play proved decisive as they edged ahead 70–67 heading into the final quarter.

From there, D’Tigress maintained their momentum and extended their lead to seal a comfortable 101–84 win.