Nigeria women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, have defeated Mali 73-69 to qualify for the 2022 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Australia.

D’ Tigress secured the final qualification spot in Group B by ousting their African counterpart at the Ranko Zeravica Sports Hall, Belgrade, Serbia.

Otis Hughley Jr. and his women will now join China and France on the trip to Sydney after both sides booked their spots at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup due to their superior point differential.

The Nigerians began their first group game with a defeat to world no. seven, China, but a victory over world number five, France, in their second game set the team back on track for a chance in Sydney.

Sunday’s victory over the Malians sealed the team’s qualification.

The President of Nigeria Basketball Federation, Igoche Mark, congratulated Hughley’s team on bagging the world cup qualification ticket.

“Congratulations dear Champions, I have never doubted your abilities.

“Thank you for putting up a good fight. You have made the federation proud, the country is proud of your performance.

“You defied every odd to beat one of the best basketball teams in the world, that’s the Nigerian spirit.

“You have conquered one of the best in the world and it is now time to step it up a notch as we stand solidly behind you in your next game against Mali. Keep soaring higher,” he said.