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2020 Olympics Group of Death: No Cause For Alarm Over Olympics Draws

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The Nigeria Basketball Federation has expressed optimism that there is no cause for alarm following the draws that pitted D’Tigress against world number one, USA, France and 2020 Olympics host-Japan which many described as the ‘group of death’.

Reacting to the draws conducted yesterday, the Federation said it is focused on preparing the teams well for the challenges ahead in their quest to make Nigerians proud.

The Federation President, Engr Musa Kida said all the 12 teams at the Olympics have a reasonable chance of winning the tournament, hence there are no minnows.

“Nothing good can be handed to you on a platter of gold. You have to work hard and be ready to seize the opportunity when it comes because to be the best, you have to beat the best.”

He believes a lot can still happen between now and when the games tips off capable of upsetting bookmakers predictions and the fate of teams.

“We have to be focused on what we have to do as a federation with the help of the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Sports to ensure we adequately prepare the team, get the right personnel for the challenges ahead.”

On his part, head coach of the senior women’s team, Otis Hughley described USA and world number five- France as familiar foes.

“We met USA and France at the last World Cup in Spain and again faced USA at the Olympics Qualifying Tournament in Serbia last year where we qualified for the Olympics.”

Otis who led the team to the quarter finals of the 2018 World Cup thereby setting an African record before winning the 2019 FIBA Afrobasket championship noted that, “We are mindful of the threat these teams pose to us including Japan who are ranked 10th in the FIBA ranking. We are going to prepare adequately to ensure that when the time comes, we will be ready.”

In an unprecedented fashion prior to any Olympics, D’Tigress are currently camped in Atlanta, USA months before the games under the watchful eyes of Coach Otis.

The Olympics games will be held between 23rd of July and 8th of August, 2021 after its initial postponement due to COVID-19

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Basketball

Igoche Mark Seeks Collaboration,Unity Amongst Basketball Stakeholders in 2024

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The Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr.Igoche Mark has urged basketball stakeholders to embrace 2024 with a renewed hope and face the the year with an unwavering determination.

Mark’s admonition was contained in his new year message issued on Sunday in Abuja.
The message reads, “As we bid farewell to an eventful year and step into a new chapter, but let us embrace the new year with renewed hope and unwavering determination.


As members of this incredible basketball family, we have faced our fair share of hurdles, disappointments, and setbacks. But remember, it is during these trying times that our true strength lies. It is through the darkest of nights that the brightest stars emerge.


So, let us unite our hearts and minds as we eagerly embrace the promises that 2024 holds for us. Close your eyes for a moment, and visualize a future where we stand tall as a force to be reckoned with on the international basketball stage. The time has come to cast aside the shadows of the past and embark on a journey towards a brighter tomorrow. 


Dare to dream, dear basketball family, for dreams can weave miracles into reality. Together, let us forge ahead into the new year, armed with indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and an unbreakable bond that defines our basketball family.

Let us support one another, applaud each other’s achievements, and lend a helping hand when someone stumbles.” He stated.
Mark who reaffirmed his commitment towards the development of basketball,says the new year signals a new dawn to a positive turning point for the game.


“In this new year, let us reaffirm our commitment to the sport we love with every beat of our hearts. Let us nurture the young talents that lie in wait, providing them with guidance, encouragement, and the platform to shine.Believe in the power of our basketball family, dear friends. Believe that we have what it takes to soar to new heights, to defy all odds, and to emerge victorious.


Together, let us raise our heads high, brush off the dust of the past, and embrace the future with open arms.

For 2024 promises to be the dawn of a new era, a chapter where our basketball legacy shall flourish like never before. Wishing you all a year brimming with hope, growth, and joy. May the courts be our canvas, and may the game forever unite us”.Mark’s new year message concludes

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