New Orleans Hornets forward Al-Farouq Aminu has revealed how compatriot Ike Diogu helped him out in getting a call-up to D'Tigers ahead of Nigeria's campaign at last year's FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Venezuela.
Aminu impressed with his versatility, averaging 13.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists in the competition. Along with Diogu, he was one of the key players that secured a ticket for the national team to appear the Olympic Basketball Tournament for the first time.
The 2.05m forward had big performances in key wins over European powers Lithuania and Greece to clinch one of the three Olympic berths on offer.
D'Tigers managed only one win – over Tunisia – at the London Games but look to be among the favourites to be crowned African champions in Abidjan this summer and book a place for the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Aminu certainly relishes being part of Nigeria's national team.
"Even if I was born in the USA, I've always been dreaming of playing for the Nigerian national team," he told FIBA.com.
"But I didn't know how to play for my country until I met Ike Diogu, who helped me to be in contact with the Nigerian federation.
"It's a source of great pride for me to be part of this team. I'm representing my parents' country and I'm helping put Nigeria basketball back on the map."
Aminu is ready to do his part to ensure the continued progression of the D'Tigers in years to come.
"I'm ready to get involved long-term in the project. We have a very talented group of players and we showed in Venezuela and also in London that we can compete at the highest level," he explained.
As he lets his body recover from the grind of the NBA season, Aminu is optimistic that he will turn out for Nigeria this summer.
"My participation at the Afrobasket will depend on my physical fitness but if I'm in shape, I'll go for sure," he said.
"By having a great performance there, we can reach a spot to the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the team will keep improving by playing against the best teams."
