D’Tigress point guard Ezinne Kalu has earned a prestigious honour by becoming the first African player to be named to an Olympic All-Second Team by FIBA.
Kalu was selected for the All-Second Team on Sunday, August 11, following her outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she led Nigeria to its first-ever quarter-final berth.
Also Read: Paris 2024 Women’s Basketball: D’Tigress Coach Wakama Wins Best Coach Award
During Team Nigeria’s campaign at the recently concluded basketball tournament at the international multi-sports event, Kalu led the scoring chart with 76 points.
Kalu averaged 18.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game during the tournament.
She recorded 58 points during the group stage matches, scoring 18 points against Australia, 19 points in Nigeria’s loss to France, and 21 points in the clash against Canada.
She added 16 points in the loss to the USA in the quarter-final, bringing her total to 76 points for the tournament.
Kalu’s scoring prowess is a testament to her passion and resilience in delivering strong performances for her team at Paris 2024.
In the All-Second Team, Kalu shared the honor with Julie Vanloo (Belgium), Satou Sabally (Germany), Valeriane Ayayi (France), and Ezi Magbegor (Australia).
The All-First Team selections include MVP A’ja Wilson (USA), Defensive Player of the Tournament Gabby Williams (France), Alanna Smith (Australia), Breanna Stewart (USA), and Emma Meesseman (Belgium).
Below are the winners of various award categories:
– Best Coach: Rena Wakama (Nigeria)
– Most Valuable Player (MVP): A’ja Wilson (USA)
– Best Defensive Player: Gabby Williams (France)
– USA – Gold
– France – Silver
– Australia – Bronze
By Dotun Omisakin
Source: www.completesports.com
