Basketball

BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Championship to Jump Off in April

Published

6 months ago

March 27, 2025

The highly anticipated BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship is set to take place at the Lake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State, from April 3 to 4, 2025.

The championship, backed by BetKing’s sponsorship, marks a major boost for wheelchair basketball, which is rapidly growing into one of Nigeria’s premier para-sports.

Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) expressed profound gratitude to BetKing for their unwavering support.

“On behalf of Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, the entire board, and every stakeholder in the sport, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. When we approached them, it felt as though they were already expecting us. Their immediate willingness to support us shows they truly understand Nigeria’s sports history and the vital role Special Sports have played in the country’s international successes over the years,” he said.

The NWBF President emphasized the need for greater corporate involvement in para-sports, noting that such partnerships complement the government’s ongoing efforts to restructure and revitalize Nigerian sports.

With the National Sports Commission (NSC) leading reforms, he called on more organizations to follow BetKing’s example by investing in adaptive sports.

The championship also serves as an important avenue to scout players for the national team, as Nigeria gears up for the Commonwealth Games qualifiers later this year in South Africa.

The President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances of securing a historic spot at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, crediting BetKing’s support for helping the team build momentum.

The BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship will feature elite wheelchair basketball players from across the country, showcasing their skills and resilience in a competition that promotes inclusivity and celebrates athletic excellence. Fans and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and witness the thrilling display of talent and determination.

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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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