D’Tigers forward Stan Okoye has described representing Nigeria as the greatest honour of his basketball career, admitting he never imagined as a young boy that he would one day wear the country’s colours on the international stage.
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The experienced forward, who made his senior debut for D’Tigers in 2013, reflected on his journey with the national team after helping Nigeria revive its 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualification campaign with an impressive run of victories under new head coach David Fizdale.
Okoye has been one of the most consistent figures in Nigerian basketball over the past decade, featuring at major international tournaments, including the FIBA Basketball World Cup, AfroBasket, and the Olympic Games.
“Representing Nigeria is one of the greatest honours of my life. Growing up, I never imagined I would have the opportunity to wear the green and white on the international stage,” Okoye said.
The 33-year-old credited his family and close friends for supporting him throughout his international career, saying their encouragement has remained a constant source of motivation since his first appearance for D’Tigers more than a decade ago.
Okoye added that every invitation to represent Nigeria carries special meaning and is a responsibility he never takes lightly.
“Since making my debut in 2013, the support from my family and friends has been incredible. Every opportunity to play for Nigeria is a blessing, and I never take it for granted,” he added.
The experienced guard was part of the D’Tigers squad that recently recorded three consecutive victories over Tunisia, Guinea and Rwanda to boost Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Nigeria’s attention will now turn to the next qualification window as D’Tigers continue their campaign to secure a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup under Fizdale’s leadership.
