The General Manager of Nigeria basketball national teams, Musa Adamu, has assured Nigerians of the readiness of reigning African basketball champions, D’Tigress to do well and make Nigerians proud at the FIBA Women’s Olympic qualifiers tournament, billed to hold February 8-11 in Belgium.
In a chat with journalists, Adamu acknowledged that there are palpable concerns by stakeholders and enthusiasts of Nigerian basketball, as the D’Tigress have not resumed camping ahead of the tournament.
He was quick to however, explain that unlike football, where the governing body makes it mandatory for clubs to release invited players two weeks before the tournament, it is different, with basketball.
“Football governing body makes it mandatory for clubs to release invited players two weeks before a championship. However, for FIBA organised tournaments, it is just seven days before the event starts,” he explained.
“That the girls are not in camp yet, doesn’t mean the team won’t be ready. The coach knows the team and the players she needs. Right now, most of the girls are busy playing with their different clubs and colleges,” he further assured.
The administrator hoped that the Federal Government releases the needed funds to ensure the participation of the D’Tigress in the tournament.