Nigeria make history with 3×3 basketball victory

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Team Nigeria made history at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games on Friday after recording their first-ever victory in 3×3 basketball with a 21-17 win over the Cayman Islands in their Pool A opener.

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PUNCH Sports Extra reports that Nigeria reached the winning mark with one minute and 36 seconds still remaining on the clock after a disciplined performance in the fast-paced encounter.

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The Nigerians combined sharp shooting with solid perimeter defence to overcome a determined Cayman Islands side and make an encouraging start to their Commonwealth Games campaign.

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The historic victory was celebrated by the Nigerian camp, with National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade joining the players and officials after the final buzzer.

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“This is the kind of start we were hoping for. Congratulations to the team for their fighting spirit and determination. Enjoy this victory, but stay focused because the journey has only just begun. Nigeria believes in you, and we are confident you can achieve even greater success at these Games,” Olopade said.

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The victory provides an early boost to Team Nigeria’s campaign, with athletes also set to compete in boxing and para powerlifting later on Friday.

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Nigeria is represented by 74 athletes across 10 sports in Glasgow, with the National Sports Commission targeting between 16 and 20 gold medals.

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