PicNews
The Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Premier League has reached its semifinal stage, featuring four top teams battling for a spot in the grand finale. MFM Queens, the defending champions, secured their spot after defeating Titans 57-32. They’ll face First Bank in the semifinals, a team they’ve had a history with. MFM finished with two wins from three games, having lost their first game against Dolphins.
First Bank completed their perfect group stage record by dismantling Air Warriors 66-35. They’re determined to achieve their target, taking one game at a time. Marylyn Ogoigbe dropped 16 points and seven rebounds, while Onaibe Jessica contributed 13 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
Dolphins maintained a 100% record in the group stage, thrashing Customs 79-45 and Titans 69-39. They’ll take on Royal Aces in the semifinals. Ajani Amudalat led the way with 20 points, while Tewo Mololuwa added 11.
Royal Aces claimed the final semifinal ticket with a gritty 40-37 win over Bayelsa Blue Whales. Bidemi Ogedengbe dominated the paint with 14 points and 20 rebounds. Royal Aces’ Coach, Olasegun Ojo, expressed confidence, saying they’ve worked hard and shouldn’t be written off.
The semifinals are scheduled to take place at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. The teams are competing for a prize money of N7.5 million. Zenith Bank’s Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, expressed excitement over the level of competition this year and reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting women’s basketball in Nigeria.
The semifinal matches promise to be thrilling, with Dolphins facing Royal Aces at 2 p.m. and First Bank taking on MFM at 4 p.m. The coaches have praised the tournament’s standard, crediting good preparation and funding for their teams’ progress. MFM’s Head Coach, Ochuko Owolabi, expressed confidence in his team’s chances against First Bank, while First Bank’s Coach, Juliana Akher, remains unfazed by any opponent.
