The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has expressed confidence that the national men’s team, D’Tigers will do well at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Speaking about the recently released 12-man list for the Games next month, the body’s Vice President, Babatunde Ogunade is adamant that the team can overcome its group opponents.

In a chat with NAN via telephone, Ogunade said: “The players did well in the recent Africa qualifiers in Mali which saw them defeating all three opponents convincingly.

“The current D’Tigers players will have to be at their best to overcome their group games against Canada, New Zealand and host, Australia.

“Once they overcome the group challenge, I am confident that they can go far in the competition which will give them credibility in future selections.” he added.

Speaking further, the NBBF boss said: “The players know what is at stake for them; if they prove their worth and meet the stuff their coach wants, they will be considered in the future.”

“Other players which would have been used are tied up with their clubs’ responsibilities in Europe, U.S and Asia.

“However, this is not disrespecting the current D’Tigers squad but to say that it gives them the opportunity to showcase their talents and make themselves marketable at the world stage.” he concluded.

The 12-man list released on Tuesday is made up of 6 foreign-based players and 6 home-based players.

Nigeria will face New Zealand, hosts Australia and Canada in the group stage.

The Commonwealth Games is expected to run from April 2 to April 15.