The Australian women’s basketball team began its medal campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a surprising 75-62 defeat to Nigeria at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, France, on Monday.

Alanna Smith was the top scorer for the Opals, ranked third globally, with 15 points, while Sami Whitcomb and Jade Melbourne contributed 13 and 12 points, respectively.

Ezinne Kalu, scoring 19 points and grabbing five rebounds, led world No. 12 Nigeria to a memorable victory.

Australia, under coach Sandy Brondello, started with urgency, quickly gaining a 13-5 lead, thanks to the efforts of Jade Melbourne and Ezi Magbegor. However, Nigeria, participating in their second consecutive Summer Games, responded with Ezinne Kalu leading the charge.

By the end of the first quarter, Nigeria edged ahead 18-17, largely due to Kalu’s 11 points, including three three-pointers.

Kalu maintained her dominance in the second quarter, with Amy Okonkwo and Elizabeth Balogun adding to Australia’s difficulties. Nigeria entered halftime with a surprising 41-28 lead, capitalizing on 16 turnovers by the Australians, compared to Nigeria’s eight.

In the second half, the Opals, five-time Olympic medalists, needed a strong response. Despite Nigeria’s resolute defense, the Opals gradually reduced the deficit, led by Alanna Smith.

Heading into the final quarter, Australia trailed by just four points, reigniting the contest.

The Opals will next face world No. 5 Canada in a Group B match on Thursday, followed by a clash with hosts France, the Tokyo 2020 bronze medalists, next Monday. Australia must finish in the top two in their group to advance to the Paris 2024 Olympics basketball quarter-finals.