D’Tigers of Nigeria has been thrown out of the ongoing Tokyo Olympics, after Italy condemned them to a 3rd consecutive loss.

It ended 80-71.

Chimezie Metu scored a double double for Nigeria 22 points 10 rebounds, as Jordan Nwora followed with 18 points 4 rebounds.

Nico Melli led the Italians with 15 points while Achille Polonara and Simone Fontecchio combined for 25 points, as Italy fought back to beat Nigeria in an entertaining affair.

In the last two games, 3-point shooting has not been the problem for Nigeria, instead defensive buffoonery is the reason why they can’t hold to lead, they conceded 19 TO’s in game to Italy’s 10. Nigeria led by as many as 6 points in the third quarter, a huge fightback and time-wasting tactics from Italy pulled the game away.

Jahlil Okafor had his best game as Nigerian player, recording 14 points coupled with some impressive post moves. Emegano and Ike Nwami had a game to forget with the former fouled out late in the 4th quarter after 5 fouls.

Nnamdi Vincent only managed 3 points in 25 mins.

With the win, Italy are through to the next round with two victories.

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