July 04, 2025

Paris 2024: France smothers Nigeria, books quarterfinal ticket in women’s basketball

Paris 2024: France smothers Nigeria, books quarterfinal ticket in women’s basketball
France forces Nigeria to commit 21 turnovers as it went to on dominate the match to secure back-to-back wins in Group B play in Paris 2024 women's basketball. | Photo (c) FIBA

France employed stifling defense in the second half to smother Nigeria, 75-54, and book its seat in the quarterfinals in Paris 2024 women’s basketball at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium on Friday, August 2 (Philippine time).

The World No. 7 squad also limited its first foe, Canada, to the same scoreline four days ago.

France thus advanced to the Last Eight with its 2-0 record in Group B play. Nigeria, meanwhile, trailed behind together with Australia with their identical 1-1 slates.

After leading by just seven points, 38-31, at the break, the French showed once more its defensive prowess in the resumption as they hounded the 12th-ranked Nigerians, limiting them to just eight points in the third for a 54-39 separation.

There was no stopping France as it stretched its lead to 20 points with a little more than seven minutes to go in the match.

All 12 players saw action for the home country, with 11 of them scoring at least two points.

Marine Johannes led the way with 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting from the three-point area.

Gabby Williams added 14 points, seven rebounds, six steals and five assists while Iliana Rupert and Janelle Salaun had nine points apiece for France which scored 24 points off 21 turnovers.

Ezinne Kalu finished with 18 points for Nigeria, while Murjanatu Musa contributed 14 markers in the loss.

Nigeria will look to secure its own quarters spot against the still-winless Canada on Sunday, August 4.

Meanwhile, France tangles with Australia for its last assignment in group play on Monday, August 5. 

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