D’Tigress To Face Mozambique, DR Congo In Olympic Qualifiers

Published

6 years ago

October 9, 2019

Joel Ajayi

African Champions, D’ Tigress of Nigeria will face host Mozambique, DR Congo in Group A of the Africa Pre-Qualifying tournament for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo in November.

D’Tigress won the AfroBasket Championship in Senegal this year and will battle Mozambique ranked and DR Congo for a semifinal spot.

The two top countries from both groups A and B at the end of the qualifiers will earn the tickets for next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

In Group B is 11 times African Champions Senegal who will play alongside Mali and two-time winners Angola.

D’ Tigress only last August defeated Senegal at home by 60-55 to win a second consecutive title in what was a pulsating encounter.

The current Nigerian and African side is the best female basketball in history to reach to the quarterfinals of a FIBA World Championships.

The qualifying tournament begins on November 14, 2019

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Nigeria @ 65: Igoche Mark Pays Homage to Nigerian Athletes for Contributions

Published

6 days ago

October 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday October 1, Basketball Promoter and Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr. Igoche Mark, has commended the country’s athletes for their outstanding contributions.

In a heartfelt message, Mr. Mark praised active and retired athletes for consistently putting Nigeria on the global map through their dedication, hard work, and achievements. “Your dedication, hard work, and achievements have not only brought us pride but have also inspired a generation of Nigerians,” he stated.

The Sports Administrator urged the National Sports Commission to establish a platform to celebrate these athletes and recognize their invaluable contributions to Nigerian sports. He emphasized the need to honour their legacy and provide a framework for their continued involvement in sports after retirement.

To support athletes in transition, Mr. Mark recommended that “retirement plans be implemented to ensure a seamless transition into life after sports. This would enable athletes to plan for their future and maximize their post-athletic careers.”

Furthermore, he proposed a welfare package for retired athletes, including access to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programs. “By doing so, we can show our appreciation for their service and ensure that they are taken care of,” Mr. Mark added.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, with the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” Mr. Mark’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe in the importance of recognizing and supporting the country’s athletes.

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