FIBA Women’s World Cup: Liz Dominant in Australia’s Win over Nigeria

WNBA star Liz Cambage was too big for the D’Tigress to handle on the court as she became a stumbling block for the Nigerians in Australia’s 18 points win over the African side at the Santiago Martin Arena on Saturday.

The Dallas Wings center proved her status as one of the biggest female basketball stars after registering 34 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists in Australia’s opening match winner.

Australia, dubbed “Opals,” defeated Nigeria 86-68 after dominating the proceedings from the start of the match. The D’Tigress entered the game confident of securing a first ever win in the Group phase, but it was the Australians who took control of the first quarter which ended 24-18 their favor.

The game’s pace in the second stanza changed a little after the West Africans narrowly lost 18-14 to go for the halftime break. With much focus on getting back on track, Nigeria bounced back after the break and won the third quarter 23-21.

However, Australia’s top performer Cambage maintained her individual brilliance, ultimately winning the game for the Opals.

Evelyn Akhator was the top performer for the D’Tigress after she recorded 21 points, five rebounds and an assist. The outstanding 23-year-old power forward admitted that Cambage was the obstacle for them in the match.

“We fought but then we just gave up a little in the last 5 minutes of the game. We shot ourselves in the foot. Lil Cambage is a monster – she really is a beast. Overall, we just need to learn and come back really strong for the next game against Turkey,” she said.

Nigeria will face Turkey tomorrow at 7:30 PM at the Quico Cabrera Arena. Turkey will be looking for the second win after they defeated Argentina 63-37 in Group B’s second match today.

Photo Credit: FIBA