By Azuka Chiemeka
Ondo State women’s basketball coach, Sola Aluko did not mince words when assessing his team’s tough path at the Niger Delta Sports Festival, labelling Group A “group of death” after a challenging campaign.
“Topping this group was always going to be a tall order,” Aluko admitted following his team’s final group game in Uyo. “Facing teams like Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Edo meant we had no room for error. But for our young players, this exposure is invaluable.”
Ondo’s hopes of securing top spot in Group A were dashed on Saturday as Rivers State delivered a dominant 38-16 victory. “We knew Rivers’ experience would be a hurdle, but I still hoped for a smoother path,” Aluko reflected. “They outplayed us, plain and simple. Now, we regroup for the knockout stage.”
The loss likely sets up a quarterfinal clash with Delta State, who stormed through Group B with a 56-7 thrashing of Imo.
Hosts Akwa Ibom kept their momentum alive with a hard-fought 32-24 win over Edo, but coach Edidiong Offiong emphasized that medals aren’t the sole focus.
“Our priority is development,” he said. “These girls are gaining critical experience. The festival must continue—it’s a lifeline for grassroots basketball.”
Akwa Ibom’s Uchechi Ebenezer, named standout player in the Edo clash, struck a more ambitious tone.
“We’re not just hosting; we’re here to win,” she declared. “A gold medal would open doors for us—exposure, recognition, maybe even scholarship. We’re playing for more than pride.”
As the women’s basketball event shifts to knockout battles, the “group of death” has already left its mark. For Ondo, lessons loom large. For Rivers and Delta, dominance continues. And for Akwa Ibom, a host team’s dream burns bright.
