Korea Women’s Basketball Team Secures First World Cup Win Against Nigeria

The South Korean women’s national basketball team achieved a historic victory, defeating Nigeria 77-60 in the second round of the group stage of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Final Qualifying Tournament held in Villeurbanne, France, on March 12th. This marks the first-ever win for the Korean senior national team against Nigeria Chosun.

Key Performances

Park Ji-hyun led the Korean team with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists, earning the title of best player of the game. Kang Yi-seul contributed significantly with 20 points, including 5 three-pointers. Park Ji-soo, despite not being at full health, added a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds Star News Korea.

Game Highlights

Korea established an early lead, finishing the first quarter 20-16 and the second 36-32. Nigeria attempted to close the gap in the third quarter, but consecutive three-pointers from Kang Yi-seul thwarted their efforts. Korea maintained control throughout the fourth quarter, with contributions from Ahn Hye-ji and Jinan, ultimately holding Nigeria scoreless for the final four minutes.

Statistical Overview

Korea committed 29 assists compared to Nigeria’s 15, and forced 22 turnovers from their opponents. The victory demonstrates a significant improvement following a 49-76 defeat against Germany in the previous game Chosun.

Looking Ahead

With this win, Korea aims to secure a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup finals. If successful, this will be Korea’s 17th consecutive appearance in the tournament, a record second only to the United States Star News Korea. Korea will face Colombia on March 15th and the Philippines later that same day, followed by a final match against host country France.

About Park Ji-hyun

Park Ji-hyun is a South Korean basketball player who currently plays for the South Korean national team and Asan Woori Bank Wibee of the Women’s Korean Basketball League (WKBL). She was drafted first overall in the 2018 WKBL draft and won the WKBL Rookie Award in 2019. She also plays for the Bankstown Bruins in the NBL1 league Wikipedia.