The D’Tigers have shown that they can qualify for the 2027 FIBA World Cup if given the right preparation and motivation during the tournament’s qualifying series, an Abia-centred group of artistes and sportsmen, United Abia Artistes and Patriots, has said.

Speaking on the national men’s basketball team’s exploits at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda in Luanda, Angola, where D’Tigers defeated Guinea 80-79 to qualify for the second round of the African qualifiers for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, the group harped on the brilliance of two brothers, Ike and Uche Iroegbu, whose roots trace back to Abia State.

The Iroegbu brothers delivered outstanding performances as D’Tigers edged African powerhouse Tunisia 84-81 in a pulsating opening game of the FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers. Their contributions, alongside NBA forward Chimezie Metu and Wes Iwundu, gave Nigeria a vital victory in the three-game qualifying window.

Veteran guard Ike Iroegbu finished with 17 points, matching the tally of Chimezie Metu, while his younger brother, Uche Iroegbu, added an impressive 13 points. Wes Iwundu also chipped in 14 points as D’Tigers held their nerve to overcome one of Africa’s strongest basketball nations.

Spokesman for the group, Alozie Alonzo Uzoukwu, said: “Beyond the statistics lies an inspiring family story. The Iroegbu brothers are proud sons of Abia heritage. Their father is from Uzuakoli in Bende Local Council, while their mother hails from Umuawa Alaocha, Umuahia North.

“Although raised in the United States, the brothers have consistently honoured their Nigerian roots by representing the country with passion and distinction.”

Uzoukwu disclosed that in previous interviews with FIBA, the brothers had expressed excitement about continuing Nigeria’s rich tradition of siblings representing the national basketball team, describing the opportunity to wear the green-and-white together as a dream come true.

He said: “Ike Iroegbu has grown into one of Nigeria’s most dependable guards, earning respect for his leadership, composure and ability to deliver under pressure. Uche has rapidly established himself as one of the team’s rising stars, combining athleticism, defensive intensity and scoring ability to become a key figure in the national setup.

“With momentum now on their side, D’Tigers will look to build on their opening victory as they continue their quest for qualification for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar.

“As the qualifiers continue, Nigerian basketball fans should keep an eye on: Ike Iroegbu, the experienced floor general and clutch performer.

Uche Iroegbu, one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising guards.

Chimezie Metu,  a dominant forward capable of taking over games.

“Wes Iwundu, a versatile defender and reliable scorer; Caleb Agada, an energetic all-round performer who thrives in big moments; and Stan Okoye, the experienced forward whose leadership and outside shooting remain invaluable.”

For Abia State, Uzoukwu said: “The performances of Ike and Uche Iroegbu are a source of immense pride and further proof that the state continues to produce athletes capable of excelling on the world’s biggest sporting stages.

“As D’Tigers continue their World Cup qualifying journey, Nigerian fans will be hoping the Iroegbu brothers keep leading from the front as the nation chases another appearance at basketball’s biggest global event.”

He charged stakeholders in Nigeria’s basketball to rally round the D’Tigers as they prepare for the final push for qualification to the FIBA World Cup, while advising the NBBF to ensure that no stone is left unturned in getting the team in the right frame of mind for the challenges ahead.