Maktown Basketball Academy and Amazons Basketball Academy have emerged as champions of the maiden edition of the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Academies Tournament held in Lagos, Nigeria.
In a thrilling boys’ final played at the Webber Engineering-themed Dolphins Basketball Court in Onipetesi, Ikeja, Lagos, Maktown overcame Warlords Academy of Ilupeju in a nail-biting contest.
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Despite the Warlords’ resilience, the Benue-based Maktown side, led by standout performer Thomas Agbo, edged the encounter 74-70 to claim the historic title.
The girls’ final was equally electrifying, with Amazons Basketball Academy defeating Victoria Queens to clinch the gold medal.
Spearheaded by the brilliant Hembam Vera, the Amazons came out strong in the first quarter, faltered slightly in the second and third, but sealed the win with a dominant performance in the final quarter, finishing the match 23-19.
In his post-match remarks, Amazons Head Coach, Akinwonjowo Oladele Akinwande, expressed gratitude to God and hailed his team’s determination and preparation.
“Thanks to Almighty God for giving us the victory. The girls were well-prepared and determined, especially knowing we were facing strong rivals in Victoria Queens,”
Looking ahead, Coach Akinwande confirmed that preparations will begin immediately for the upcoming Dr. Olukoya Basketball Tournament scheduled for July 14–15, 2025.
He also commended the organizers of the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Academies Tournament, particularly the President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, Colonel Samuel Ahmedu, for providing a valuable platform to showcase young talent.
“We hardly get enough competitions in a calendar year, so this initiative is a welcome development. I urge private sector stakeholders to come on board and support youth basketball,” he said.
Hembam Vera was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the girls’ category, while Thomas Agbo earned the MVP title in the boys’ category.
Vera, elated by the recognition, attributed her success to divine grace and team support.
“I give all glory to God Almighty. I thank my coach and teammates for their unwavering support. It’s a privilege to participate and win MVP at such a prestigious tournament,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude to Col. Ahmedu for his continued investment in youth basketball.
In other highlights, Alex Otu (Impression Basketball Academy) and Moda Ajani (Victoria Queens) impressed in the three-point shootout, while Ola Promise (Raptors Academy) dazzled fans to win the slam dunk contest.
Popular Nigerian comedian, Gordons, added glamour to the event, entertaining spectators and showing support for grassroots basketball development.
Best Five Players – Girls:
Anani R. (Amazon – 5)
Anari C. (Impression – 4)
Angel O. (Impression – 5)
Divine (TABA – 47)
Ali K. (Amazon – 81)
Best Five Players – Boys:
Salawu D. (Warlords – 7)
Agbo T. (Maktown – 13)
Edwin S. (Raptors – 7)
Okaja J. (Maktown – 10)
Ogbonna J. (Warlords – 11)
The inaugural FIBA Africa Zone 3 Academies Tournament delivered a promising platform for emerging talent and set a high standard for future editions.
