Basketball enthusiasts, including coaches, yesterday expressed disappointment with the 66-94 loss of the D’Tigers to Argentina, saying the players did not function as a team in their approach to the game.
D’Tigers playing in the first match of their Group B of the basketball event at the ongoing Rio Olympics fell to the superiority of the South Americans.

Most of those who reacted to the loss said that the team needed to raise their game if they want to make an impact in the competition.

The Head Coach of Kwara Falcons, Adewunmi Aderemi, said that though the D’Tigers gave their best, one had to accept that Argentina was a powerhouse in basketball.
“We played a very tough team that has been virtually present in all basketball events of the Olympics, so we should give credit to our players for their performance.

“D’Tigers need to be more team conscious of negative play and stop playing as individuals who are chasing personal glory,” Aderemi said.
He added that for us to make impact in the group, the team would have to work harder and play for each other.

Similarly, the Head Coach of Dolphins Basketball Club of Lagos, Ochuko Okworogun, said the team fell apart when they could not make their three point’s shots.
“It is a sad loss considering the effort they put into the game, but one area that was obvious that could have given the team a better chance was the three points.
“The team needs to step up their game on the offensive and work harder at the three points line,” Okworogun said

 Dele Awonuga, who handles a grassroots basketball team, said in a chat that the team met a tougher opposition and did give their best but it was not good enough.

“We played a better team though as Africa Champions, we needed to play with better prestige but it was as if the team felt they could not compete with the Argentines.

 “The team needs better motivation and needs to work on their morale to be able to lift themselves and play other tougher oppositions in their group. Nigeria is counting on them and the whole nation is with them in prayers,” Awonuga said.

Next up for D’Tigers is a tricky test against Lithuania in their second game on August 9, before battling Spain on August 11 at the Carioca Arena in Rio. They face Croatia and Brazil on the August 13 and Aug. 15 respectively.

 The top four classified teams from the two available Groups A and B will then move on to the final phase. (NAN)