After their surprising defeat on the opening day against the Dolphins Women’s Basketball team, the defending champions of the Zenith Bank/NBBF Women’s Basketball League, MFM Women’s Basketball team, returned to winning form on Wednesday, thrashing the Customs Women’s Basketball team 78-42.
Despite leading by more than 15 points against the Dolphins in their opening match, the champions succumbed to a series of attacks from their opponents, ultimately losing the game 51-41.
Team coach Ochuko Owolabi stated that the loss to the Dolphins served as a wake-up call for the squad. He expressed satisfaction with their response in the victory over Customs but emphasised the need to pull together as they prepare to face the Titans in their final group game on Thursday, which is crucial for securing their place in the semi-finals.
In the day’s earlier match, Bayelsa Blue Whales also secured their first win of the finals, defeating Air Warriors 65-47. This victory gives them a viable chance of qualifying for the final four, while both Air Warriors and Nigeria Customs find themselves on the brink of elimination after losing two games in the series.
In an interview with our correspondent, Bayelsa Blue Whales’ Head Coach, Tony Nelson, expressed optimism, noting that with a win under their belt, all they need to do is triumph in their final game, after which anything can happen in the semi-finals.
The Dolphins also edged closer to the finals after securing another victory, defeating the Titans 63-39.
Meanwhile, the teams have commended the league sponsor, Zenith Bank, for the significant increase in prize money for this year’s finals.
It is worth noting that Zenith Bank has announced a new prize fund of N7.5m for the winners, while the second and third-placed teams will receive N5m and N3m, respectively.
