By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Nigeria’s basketball federation has intensified efforts to recruit NBA stars for D’Tigers ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. New head coach David Fizdale is leading the campaign, while players such as Aaron Nesmith, Desmond Bane, Onyeka Okongwu and Ayo Dosunmu have shown interest in representing Nigeria. The recruitment drive comes as Nigeria aims to build a strong squad for upcoming international competitions and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Fizdale Leads New D’Tigers Era
The Nigeria Basketball Federation recently appointed David Fizdale as the new head coach of D’Tigers. Fizdale previously coached the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks in the NBA.
He also worked as an assistant coach with the Phoenix Suns between 2023 and 2025. Now, he wants to guide Nigeria back to the Olympics.
Speaking after his appointment, Fizdale described qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics as his biggest ambition with Nigeria.
Nigeria previously competed at the London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. However, the country still seeks its first Olympic basketball medal.
Aaron Nesmith Commits to Nigeria
Basketball journalist Coach Hova confirmed that Aaron Nesmith has committed to representing D’Tigers during the next international basketball window.
Nesmith currently plays for the Indiana Pacers. The Boston Celtics selected him with the 14th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft before Indiana acquired him in 2022.
According to reports, Nesmith’s commitment marks a major step in Nigeria’s Olympic preparation plans.
Desmond Bane Begins Nationality Switch
Desmond Bane has also started processing his international switch to represent Nigeria before the 2028 Olympics.
Earlier this year, Bane openly expressed interest in playing for D’Tigers during a BBC interview.
“We just need to get all the Nigerians together for the Olympics coming up in the next couple years and make something happen,” Bane said.
He also revealed that he had spoken with several Nigerian-eligible NBA players about joining the national team.
“I’d talk to Aaron Nesmith,” Bane explained.
“Me and Gabe Vincent also talked about it a little bit. We need to do it.”
Reports also suggest that Bane has encouraged more Nigerian-eligible players to commit to D’Tigers.
Onyeka Okongwu Interested in D’Tigers Move
Meanwhile, Onyeka Okongwu remains interested in representing Nigeria under Fizdale’s leadership.
Journalist Kehinde Bamidele disclosed that Okongwu missed a previous invitation because officials sent it late. However, both parties continue discussions ahead of the July international basketball window.
His potential addition could strengthen Nigeria’s frontcourt significantly.
Ayo Dosunmu Yet to Decide
Ayo Dosunmu has not made a final decision on representing Nigeria.
Nevertheless, the new coaching crew reportedly wants to convince him to join the project.
Dosunmu previously represented the United States at youth level. He won gold at the 2018 FIBA U18 Americas Championship.
As a result, any switch to Nigeria may require additional international clearance procedures.
Nigeria Builds Strong Olympic Dream
Nigeria’s recruitment drive reflects its determination to assemble one of Africa’s strongest basketball teams before the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
With several NBA players showing interest, D’Tigers could become serious contenders on the international stage in the coming years.
