Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team staged a strong second-half rally to defeat the Philippines 101-84. The African champions secured their second win in three games at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament. They played the match on March 14 2026 at the Astroballe arena in Villeurbanne Lyon, France.
The Philippines team controlled the opening stages. They won the first quarter 26-21. They added 25 points in the second quarter while Nigeria scored 21. The score stood at 51-42 in favour of the Philippines at halftime.
Nigeria coach Rena Wakama adjusted tactics during the break. D’Tigress responded with force in the third quarter. They scored 34 points and held the Philippines to 21. Nigeria took a 76-72 lead into the final period. Then they dominated the fourth quarter 25-12 to seal the win.
Nigeria outrebounded the Philippines 58-33. They also recorded 36 assists to the opponents’ 24. The 101 points marked a new record for Nigeria in FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers. It surpassed their previous high of 76 points.
Forward Victoria Macaulay led Nigeria’s attack. She scored 16 points with six rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Nicole Enabosi added 15 points and 12 rebounds. Murjanatu Musa posted 10 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Guard Janine Pontejos scored 16 points for the Philippines.
D’Tigress claimed victory after an earlier 70-37 win over Colombia and a 60-77 loss to South Korea. The team improved its rebounding and ball movement in this match. Nigeria will next face France on March 15 before concluding the group stage against Germany.
