Basketball

Dallaji U17 Basketball Tournament: Kaduna Coach Optimistic Of Beating Kano In Final

Published

4 years ago

August 15, 2021

The U17 Basketball team coach of Kaduna, Simsim Morrison is optimistic that his boys are capable of defeating the hosts, Kano in today’s final of the Noah Dallaji U17 Basketball Tournament.

Simsim said the confidence level of his boys rises as game proceeds saying that it will be an advantage to his boys to win the title.

He said, “in the beginning of the competition when we saw what was happening, we were a bit doubting whether we can be in the final but as game proceeds we have confidence in the players that they will go far because they improve game after game.

He said the aim of playing in the final almost became impossible after losing to Buachi in the preliminary stage.

“But when we lost to Bauchi we thought that was the end of the road but we went back and re-strategise again and I told the guys that we can actually make it to the final. I don’t see Kano or any team as the best in this competition. We’re capable of beating any team. As for me in this competition my boys are the best and ready to beat Kano.”

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Maku, Kano U17 Basketball team coach played down Simsim threats insisting that Kaduna cannot stop them from lifting the trophy.

“We have learned from our mistakes after our loss to Plateau in the group stage, we went back and planned again.

“I have sat down with my boys to identify and fix our weakness . The opponent I know are a good team but the commitment of my boys will see them through.

The same tempo we use to beat Plateau in the Semi-final is the same we will bring into the game in the final to bring smiles into the faces of Kano residents.” He concluded.

Kaduna defeated Kebbi in the Semi-final of the competition to set a final battle with Kano who edged Plateau in the semis.

The final match is scheduled for Sunday (today) at the Indoor Sports Hall of Sani Abacha stadium, Kano.

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Basketball

Nigeria @ 65: Igoche Mark Pays Homage to Nigerian Athletes for Contributions

Published

4 days ago

October 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday October 1, Basketball Promoter and Initiator of Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Mr. Igoche Mark, has commended the country’s athletes for their outstanding contributions.

In a heartfelt message, Mr. Mark praised active and retired athletes for consistently putting Nigeria on the global map through their dedication, hard work, and achievements. “Your dedication, hard work, and achievements have not only brought us pride but have also inspired a generation of Nigerians,” he stated.

The Sports Administrator urged the National Sports Commission to establish a platform to celebrate these athletes and recognize their invaluable contributions to Nigerian sports. He emphasized the need to honour their legacy and provide a framework for their continued involvement in sports after retirement.

To support athletes in transition, Mr. Mark recommended that “retirement plans be implemented to ensure a seamless transition into life after sports. This would enable athletes to plan for their future and maximize their post-athletic careers.”

Furthermore, he proposed a welfare package for retired athletes, including access to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programs. “By doing so, we can show our appreciation for their service and ensure that they are taken care of,” Mr. Mark added.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, with the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” Mr. Mark’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe in the importance of recognizing and supporting the country’s athletes.

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