NBA Stars Eye D’Tigers Return As Nigeria Sets Sights On 2028 Olympic Glory

Fizdale, a respected NBA tactician who previously served as head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks, also worked as an assistant coach with the Phoenix Suns between 2023 and 2025 before taking over the Nigerian national team.

According to reports from basketball insiders, Aaron Nesmith has already committed to representing Nigeria ahead of the next international basketball window. The Indiana Pacers forward, who was selected 14th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2020 NBA Draft, is said to be eager to join the national team setup.

Further reports indicate that Desmond Bane is in the process of changing his international allegiance to Nigeria as part of preparations for the 2028 Olympics. The sharpshooting guard is believed to be playing an active role in persuading other Nigerian-eligible NBA players to support the project.

In an interview earlier this year, Bane expressed his desire to unite players of Nigerian heritage for a serious Olympic campaign, revealing that he had already held discussions with fellow NBA stars, including Nesmith and Gabe Vincent.

Onyeka Okongwu is also reportedly interested in representing Nigeria under Fizdale. The Atlanta Hawks center previously missed an opportunity to join the team due to short notice, but talks are ongoing ahead of the July international window.

Meanwhile, Ayo Dosunmu has not yet made a final decision regarding his international future. However, securing the commitment of the Chicago Bulls guard is said to be one of Fizdale’s immediate priorities. Dosunmu previously represented the United States at youth level, meaning any switch to Nigeria would require official approval from basketball authorities.

Speaking after his appointment by the Nigeria Basketball Federation, Fizdale described leading Nigeria to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, his hometown, as one of the most meaningful objectives of his coaching career.

Nigeria has featured in the men’s basketball tournament at the 2012 Summer Olympics, 2016 Summer Olympics and 2020 Summer Olympics, but the country is still chasing its first-ever Olympic basketball medal.