Basketball

Federal Government Urge To Resolve Basketball Crisis

Published

1 week ago

September 8, 2024

Igoche Mark, a renowned basketball promoter, has called on the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the lingering crisis in basketball, which has hindered the development of the sport in Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists at the closing ceremony of a two-day basketball camp organized by the Veterans of Abuja (VOA) for kids between the ages of 4-16, Mark emphasized the need for the government to tackle the root causes of the crisis, rather than just treating the symptoms.

“The problem of basketball has been lingering, and it’s still unresolved,” Mark said. “I urge the Sports Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, and the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackle the root causes, rather than adopting the cosmetic approach of past governments.”

Mark highlighted the importance of sports in addressing some of the country’s challenges, including insecurity and economic woes. “Sports can be used to tackle insecurity challenges, economic challenges, and unemployment,” he said. “I enjoin the Federal government to pay more attention to sports and settle the crisis in basketball, as this will yield positive dividends.”

The Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, founded by Mark, remains one of the biggest basketball championships in recent times, and he has maintained his unwavering support for the game. Mark expressed optimism that with the right leadership in the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), the sport will become an envy to many.

“The potential of basketball in Nigeria is enormous, and with the right leadership, we can achieve great things,” Mark said. “I believe that the government and the key stakeholders can work together to resolve the crisis and take basketball to the next level.”

Mark’s call to action comes at a critical time for Nigerian basketball, which has been plagued by internal conflicts and mismanagement. The government’s response to the crisis will be closely watched by stakeholders in the sports sector.

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Basketball

Mango Foundation Launches 80-Player Basketball Camp To Empower Young Talent

Published

7 hours ago

September 18, 2024

The Gleamer

The Mango Foundation has announced the second edition of its highly anticipated 80-man basketball camp, set to take place from September 19-21, 2024. Aimed at empowering young basketball talent from across Nigeria, the camp will gather aspiring players from all 36 states, providing them with invaluable training and mentorship.

Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, Yusuf O. Yakubu, the foundation’s founder and a former professional basketball player, highlighted the initiative’s significance.

“If we work together and invest in our youth, we won’t need to rely so heavily on overseas talent. We can cultivate a generation of homegrown players who are just as skilled, if not more so,” he stated.

Yakubu reflected on his own journey, emphasizing the role sports played in his life. “Growing up, sports were our outlet and our hope. They allowed us to dream beyond our circumstances,” he said.

He said his commitment to giving back stems from his personal experiences on the basketball court, which shaped his path to success.

He said the foundation’s initiative is particularly aimed at addressing the lack of resources for young athletes in Nigeria.

“We had talent but lacked the systems to nurture it. This camp aims to bridge that gap,” Yakubu explained.

He drew comparisons to the United States, where significant investments are made in grassroots sports to support young talent. He said his primary objectives is to provide mentorship and guidance.

“It’s about preparing these young players not just for the game, but for the academic and regulatory challenges they’ll face if they want to play at the next level,” he noted.

He emphasized that empowerment goes beyond basketball; it encompasses academic and life skills as well. Organizing the camp presents challenges, including securing sponsorship.

“Sponsorship is always a major issue, but I believe that with continued effort and support, we can overcome these hurdles,” he stated, expressing optimism about future collaborations and community involvement.

Yakubu called for broader community support, urging parents and families to engage actively.

“I want to see parents proudly watching their children. Your presence can make all the difference in their confidence and motivation,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment for young athletes.

He said the Mango Foundation aims to address systemic issues in Nigerian basketball, including favoritism and a lack of opportunity for talented players.

“Basketball should be a meritocracy—those with talent and work ethic should be given the chance to succeed,” Yakubu asserted.

He said he envisions a system where hard work is rewarded regardless of background.

Looking ahead, he said the foundation has ambitious goals, including securing scholarships for young players to study abroad.

“We want to provide opportunities for these kids to attend schools without the financial burdens that often hold them back,” Yakubu said, highlighting the potential for sports and education to work hand in hand.

As the camp approaches, he said he remains committed to fostering a sense of community. “Together, we can build a future where every child with a dream has the chance to achieve it,” he said, emphasizing the lasting impact of the initiative on Nigeria’s youth and basketball landscape.

He said with strong support from local communities our sponsors and stakeholders, the Mango Foundation’s basketball camp is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of young athletes across Nigeria, fostering a culture of growth, opportunity, and success.

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