African champions Nigeria’s D’Tigress were edged 88–79 by the Minnesota Lynx in a closely fought pre-season friendly at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on Tuesday, www.aclsports.com reports.
D’Tigress showed resilience and flashes of quality in a spirited performance as part of their ongoing WNBA pre-season tour, following their clash against the Los Angeles Sparks.
The starting five of Promise Amukamara, Ezinne Kalu, Suzie Rafiu, Uche Izoje and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah were immediately drawn into a fast-paced contest, with the Lynx edging the first quarter 27–26.
A tightly contested second quarter followed, as both sides traded baskets in a balanced spell. Minnesota, however, made the most of key moments to take a 46–43 lead into half-time, with Ezinne Kalu steering Nigeria’s offence.
After the break, the Lynx tightened their grip on proceedings, taking advantage of Nigerian turnovers and transition opportunities to extend their lead and enter the final quarter ahead 67–59. Despite Nigeria’s response through inside and perimeter scoring, Minnesota maintained control during crucial phases of the game.
In the fourth quarter, D’Tigress showed resilience with late scoring runs, but the Lynx remained composed, relying on efficient shot selection and free throws to close out the contest.
Ezinne Kalu led Nigeria with 25 points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal, shooting efficiently from beyond the arc while attacking the rim. Gabby White added 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block, while Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah contributed 11 points, six rebounds, two steals and one block. Uche Izoje finished with eight points and seven rebounds.
For Minnesota, Courtney Williams led with 17 points, while Olivia Miles added 11 points and five assists. Nia Coffey also chipped in 10 points.
Statistically, Minnesota’s efficiency proved decisive, shooting 50 per cent from the field compared to Nigeria’s 40 per cent. They also held the edge in assists and fast-break points. However, D’Tigress dominated the rebounding battle 49–33 and matched their opponents in points in the paint.
The encounter served as another test for D’Tigress ahead of their final game against the Indiana Fever on Saturday, 2 May.
