Nigeria’s new coach Fizdale prepares for the D’Tigers challenge

By Pius Ayinor

David Fizdale has been named the new head coach of Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, the D’Tigers. The Nigeria Basketball Federation announced the appointment last week.

In an exclusive interview with M4STV, Fizdale expressed his enthusiasm and readiness for the role. He said he is currently reviewing Nigerian players in the United States and Europe, focusing on those who could be invited to a national team trial.

The former NBA player and coach believes that his familiarity with Nigerian talent and the national system will help him tackle this new challenge.

Speaking about his connection to Nigerian basketball, Fizdale noted, “I have coached a few of them, and that helps. I coached Chimezie Metu, Josh Okogie, and Ekpe Udoh. Over time, I have worked with many of these players, watching them navigate the draft system and become free agents. Some have played for the D’Tigers before moving to Europe. I am monitoring these players to see if they can join the NBA pool.”

He added, “I have also learned a lot from my friend Mike Brown, who has shared insights about the people I will work with, the process, and what it means to Nigerians.”

Fizdale said he has watched the women’s team play and appreciates their tempo.

In his first interview with a Nigerian outlet, Fizdale emphasized his availability and commitment. “I am extremely available. I would not have taken the job if I didn’t have the time. I stepped down from my NBA coaching role, which makes me very much available. I have never done anything that I can’t put my whole heart into. I talked with many players, administrators, and Mike Brown, and that has given me a clear idea of the work ahead. I am excited and confident that I can put in enough effort to make this team succeed.”

Fizdale’s goal is to lead Nigeria to the 2028 Olympics, which he hopes to achieve while based in his hometown of Los Angeles. The team is scheduled to compete in Angola by July.

He holds an NBA regular‑season head‑coaching record of 71–134 with the Memphis Grizzlies (2016‑17) and New York Knicks (2018‑19). The 51‑year‑old most recently served as an assistant coach for the Phoenix Suns from 2023 to 2025.

Nigeria’s men’s team has appeared in the Olympics three times: 2012, 2016, and 2020. Mike Brown, who coached the D’Tigers at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, led the team to exhibition victories over the United States and Argentina.

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