18 teams battle for Renewed Hope basketball tourney

The inaugural Renewed Hope Ikeja Federal Constituency Basketball Championship tipped off on Monday at the Police College court in Ikeja, with 18 teams from the constituency’s political wards competing for honours and significant cash rewards.

The event is sponsored by Olawale Fadare, the personal assistant on general duties to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with additional backing from a network of young professionals under the banner of Young Professionals for Tinubu.

Organisers say the competition is designed to provide constructive engagement and empowerment for young people in the constituency through sport.

During the presentation of jerseys to participating teams, Francis Nkwo, leader of the House in Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area, urged players and officials to uphold discipline and fair play throughout the tournament.

Tournament coordinator Kenneth Agba assured participants of a well-organised and competitive event, noting that the sponsors hoped the championship would serve as a pathway to brighter sporting futures for the players.

He confirmed that prize money of N500,000, N300,000, N200,000 and N100,000 would be awarded to the top four teams, while the remaining 14 teams would each receive N50,000.

The week-long tournament, which runs from November 24 to 30, features teams including Ebun Comets, Hoops and Read Cantonment, Police Baton, Heat Kings, Bobcats, Raptors, Senators and Lite Academy.

Others in the field are Warriors, Warlords, Estate King, Rookies B, Ogudu GRA, WASCOM, Rookies, Sport Nation and Leo Kareem Academy.

Organisers added that the event will also include a slam dunk contest, three-point shooting challenge, dance and DJ sessions, a youth talent showcase and a raffle draw.