Nigeria Prepares for Third Olympic Basketball Appearance Against Australia.
Nigeria’s D’Tigress are gearing up for their third appearance in women’s Olympic basketball, following previous participations in Athens 2004 and Tokyo 2020. Their opponents, the Opals of Australia, have recently completed an intensive training camp in Spain, where their six WNBA players joined captain Tess Madgen and five other squad members who flew in from Australia.
The Australian team was finalised in early July. However, Tokyo 2020 Olympian Bec Allen had to withdraw due to injury and was replaced by Amy Atwell, who is set to make her Olympic debut. Head coach Sandy Brondello expressed confidence in Atwell, stating, “Amy Atwell has been part of this Olympic squad all year and with us in Spain for our practice matches.”
Brondello emphasised the strong bond and connection within the team, highlighting their focus and preparation for their opening game against Nigeria. “This group has a really strong bond and connection and we will lock in, stay focused and continue our preparation for game one against Nigeria,” she said.
As Nigeria prepares to face a well-coordinated Australian team, both sides are poised for an exciting and competitive match in the women’s Olympic basketball tournament.