Nigeria’s push to rebuild D’Tigers into an Olympic contender has gathered pace, with head coach David Fizdale revealing that 14 NBA players with Nigerian connections have expressed interest in representing the country. Fizdale said he has spoken personally with the players, who are not currently eligible to play for Nigeria. Two of them, he added, have already committed to the project, subject to resolving their international eligibility.
The recruitment drive is central to Fizdale’s plans, with qualification for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics at stake. Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifying squad already featured NBA experience in Josh Okogie, Chimezie Metu and Udoka Azubuike, among other established internationals.
The Los Angeles Games carry personal significance for Fizdale, who grew up in the city and recalls the 1984 Olympics. He has been clear about his ambition to take Nigeria to the tournament and to compete with more than just participation in mind.
"We have to make getting to Los Angeles our mission. That is my ultimate goal, to get this team to those Olympics. And not just get there. I want to win," Fizdale said. D’Tigers have previously featured at the London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics but have never won an Olympic basketball medal. According to FIBA, seven teams will qualify directly for the 2028 Olympic basketball tournament through the 2027 World Cup.
