NBA Star Bane eyes Nigerian Olympic basketball revival
Orlando Magic guard Desmond Bane has expressed strong interest in representing Nigeria internationally, aiming to recruit fellow NBA talents to revitalize D’Tigers’ Olympic hopes. Although officially listed as American, Bane’s Nigerian heritage opens a path to bolster a squad that missed qualifying for Paris 2024.
“We just need to get all the Nigerians together,” said Bane, who has discussed joining forces with players like the Lakers’ Gabe Vincent and the Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith. Current Nigerian international Josh Okogie (Houston Rockets) could be joined by other NBA talents, including Precious Achiuwa and Adem Bona.
Ranked 50th globally, Nigeria faces a challenging qualification journey for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, either via the 2027 FIBA World Cup or a continental qualifier.
The recruitment Push of Bane coincides with the continued global expansion of NBA, highlighted by recent games in Europe and the established Basketball Africa League, underscoring the growing international talent pool he hopes to tap into for Nigeria.
