FIBA W/Cup Qualifiers: Aminu Expects Tough Clash in Abidjan

Alade Aminu is anticipating a tough final window for the D’Tigers at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 African Qualifiers in Cote d’Ivoire reports Completesports.com.

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 African Qualifiers tips off from February 22 to the 24 in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire with Nigeria’s D’Tigers battling Cote d’Ivoire, Central African Republic and Senegal to close their successful Group F where there are still two World Cup tickets up for grabs.

With Nigeria already through to the China 2019 showpiece, the Hapoel Tel Aviv forward, Aminu admits the final window will be a tough one.

“Honestly, it’s not only Cote d’Ivoire. We need to win all the games,”Aminu told FIBA.com.

Nigeria have won all of their nine games so far, yet Aminu is cautious.

“Our opponents will be hungry and no doubt determined as well. For us, we just have to do what we need to do to take care of the situation. We’re not expecting a tea party in Abidjan. We must be prepared for the energy they bring and do our job properly.

“We have played against Senegal and we’re looking forward to more challenges. The members of the team are keen on destroying rebels and rivals ahead of any clash. Nigeria stands a chance against anybody.”

“We realized that Nigerian fans are amazing, we got some of the best in the world. They love us doing it in the green white green. I am proud to play before them. We brought a lot of people out the last time, Master P [a famous Nigerian singer] and others. I derived pleasure in playing for Nigeria.”

Aminu has contributed an average of nine points and five rebounds in three games.

“We just have to be focused and show the world we can beat anyone. We must prove we have a strong team with good chemistry. We got a lot of talent. We are billed to keep showing the power Nigeria basketball have and to remain focused,” Aminu pointed out.

He also admits that he will miss his younger brother Al-Farouq for this coming window.

Al-Farouq who stars for the Portland Trail Blazers was left out of the squad due to club commitments.

“Playing against rivals is always fun for us, we have been playing against each others so anytime we get the chance to play together, a lot of fun happens. I hope we will be back to training very soon and make it to the World Cup. I enjoy playing with my brother and other members of the team.”

“Our basketball here in Nigeria is getting better. The players are now moving abroad to showcase their talent. It’s been amazing over there also. Our people at home are happy to see us come around. It’s amazing we are meeting great people.”