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For the first time in a long while, team captains, Ike Diogu, and Ben Uzoh, have been omitted from the Nigerian squad for a major tournament. Eight NBA stars headlined the 15-man list as Detroit Piston Centre, Jahlil Okafor, looks to make his international debut for Nigeria. The trio of Gabe Vincent, Chikezie ‘KZ’ Okpala, and Precious Achiuwa (2020 NBA Draft), who all ply their trade with the Miami Heat, and Miye Oni of Utah Jazz, are part of the list. Sacramento Kings star, Chimezie Metu, and Josh Okogie of Minnesota Timberwolves were also included by coach Brown as they look to continue their impressive display for D’Tigers after a brilliant 2019 FIBA World Cup in China where they booked Nigeria’s Olympic ticket alongside Ike Iroegbu who is also part of the 15 players in camp.
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Nigeria’s youngest highest point scorer in a competitive game, Jordan Nwora, who is currently in the NBA finals with the Milwaukee Bucks, continues his adventure with the Nigerian side, while Obi Emeghano is back in the squad after missing out on the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Stanley Okoye who has constantly featured in the team since 2015 was also listed by Brown, alongside stars like Ekpe Udoh and Caleb Agada. 2015 Afrobasket team member, Mike Gbinije, and 2021 Afrobasket qualifiers star, Chima Moneke, was also listed by the American tactician. Mike Brown also disclosed that the final 12-man roster will be made public a few days before the commencement of the Olympics. D’Tigers are pitched in Group B of the tournament alongside, Australia, Germany, and Italy. Source NBBF Online
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