Faisal Salisu DambattaThe Dolphins Women’s Basketball team has dedicated its second Zenith Bank/NBBF Women’s League title to the memory of its late founder, Wale Aboderin, honoring his vision and enduring legacy both on and off the court.
Aboderin, who passed away on May 30, 2018, was a former chairman of PUNCH Nigeria Limited and a devoted supporter of Nigerian sports.
The late Aboderin made significant investments in the Dolphins, building a clubhouse and gym to develop players and ensure the team could compete at the highest level.
Dolphins Director Olumide Oyedeji informed journalists after the announcement on Saturday that this victory fulfilled Aboderin’s lifelong commitment to the team.
Oyedeji, who is also a former captain of the national men’s basketball team, expressed that the late philanthropist would be proud to witness the team’s second championship even after his passing. The team had previously won the title in 2015.
“Reaching this point is a testament to what the founder accomplished during his lifetime, and I am thrilled to be part of this history.
“I was still playing when the late Aboderin began investing in the team, and after his death, it became essential to continue from where he left off because he would not have wanted to see the team falter.
“Throughout these years, we have been diligently working with the players and management, and the outcome is what everyone is witnessing, especially from the conference to the final against First Bank,” Oyedeji stated.
For Oyedeji and the Dolphins, this victory represents more than just a trophy; it is a celebration of Aboderin’s vision, commitment, and belief in fostering Nigerian talent.
His legacy continues to motivate the team to uphold excellence both on and off the court.
On Saturday, the Dolphins secured the championship at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, triumphing over First Bank with a score of 61-55 in an exciting final that prevented their rivals from achieving a record 10th title.
The final was graced by Zenith Bank CEO Adaora Umeoji, along with other high-ranking bank officials, NBBF Chairman Musa Kida, and Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission.
Both teams entered the final match undefeated in the week-long tournament. The Dolphins defeated the Abuja-based Royal Aces 66-54 in the semifinals, while First Bank edged out MFM with a close 47-45 victory.
The Dolphins took an early lead, finishing the first half at 33-30. They increased their lead to double digits in the third quarter, but First Bank managed to cut the deficit to nine points by the start of the fourth quarter. The game ended regulation time tied at 53-53, leading to overtime. In the additional five minutes, the Dolphins outscored First Bank 8-0, clinching the title and the N7.5 million prize.
First Bank’s coach, Juliana Akhere, shared her thoughts on the defeat, stating, “I firmly believe we needed to better grasp the instructions provided to the players.
“They must adhere to the instructions. If they can achieve that to a significant extent, everything will fall into place.”
In the third-place match, the dethroned champions MFM triumphed over Royal Aces with a score of 70-46 to secure the bronze medal. Individual accolades were awarded to Idubamo Beggi of MFM for the highest assists, Wandoo Hembam for the highest three-pointers, and Bidemi Ogedengbe for the top rebounds, with each receiving N500,000.
