Gateway Horns receiver Odimbu Awele has set his sights on becoming one of the top five receivers in the Showtime Bowl Series after scoring a touchdown in his team’s 43-24 defeat to Ibom Raptors on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Despite the loss, Awele was one of the standout voices after the game, stressing his desire to make a name for himself while helping Gateway Horns compete against one of the league’s stronger sides.
Sports247 gathered from the post-game interview that Awele sees competition as a major part of his motivation. He said he wants his impact to be felt whenever he steps onto the field and hopes to become a recognised name among the league’s best receivers.
“I’m playing for my name,” Awele said, adding that he wants his name to be mentioned whenever the league’s top receivers are discussed.
His touchdown added a personal highlight to a difficult outing for Gateway, who managed 24 points against an Ibom Raptors side that finished with 43.
Awele also pointed to the team’s determination to compete despite facing a side he described as one of the league’s top teams. Gateway had previously suffered a mercy-rule defeat against the Raptors last season, making Sunday’s encounter another opportunity to measure their progress.
Rather than allowing the difference in strength between the teams to affect their approach, Awele said Gateway Horns came into the game ready to fight until the end.
The receiver’s performance and comments underline a growing personal ambition that goes beyond individual statistics. With Gateway Horns continuing to develop as a team, Awele will now look to build on his latest outing and strengthen his case among the league’s leading receivers.
For now, his touchdown against the Raptors provides another step towards the recognition he is targeting.
