Experienced coach Mohammed Abdulrahman will guide Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, as interim head coach during the upcoming FIBA AfroBasket tournament in Angola.
The 31st edition of Africa’s premier basketball competition kicks off this month, with Nigeria drawn in Group B alongside defending champions Tunisia, Cameroon and Madagascar.
Abdulrahman, who previously served as assistant coach during multiple international tournaments, took charge during last year’s qualifying rounds in Libya. Under his leadership, D’Tigers secured crucial victories against Libya, Uganda and Cape Verde to book their spot in the continental championship.
The seasoned tactician brings extensive experience to the role, having coached several Nigerian club sides including Rivers Hoopers and Gombe Bulls. His international credentials include leading Nigeria at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and recent FIBA qualifiers.
D’Tigers will begin their campaign against Madagascar on August 13 before facing Tunisia two days later. They conclude the group stage against Cameroon on August 17.
While the Nigeria Basketball Federation has yet to announce details about the team’s training camp, players are expected to assemble soon pending visa approvals.
Abdulrahman faces the challenge of improving on Nigeria’s 2015 championship-winning performance at a tournament featuring Africa’s basketball powerhouses. The team’s preparations come as Nigerian basketball continues its resurgence following recent administrative challenges.
