By Silvernews
A board member of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and Chief Executive Officer of Afasports, Mr. Ugo Udezue, has begun delivering on his campaign promises following the successful qualification of Coal City Blazers to the main conference of the Nigerian men’s basketball league.
Udezue, the Anambra State-born basketball administrator, was elected into the federation’s board during the last NBBF elections and had pledged to strengthen basketball development in the South-East region.
The qualification of Coal City Blazers has been described by stakeholders as a major breakthrough for basketball in the zone and a positive signal for the future of the sport in the region.
Officials of the club disclosed that the team is made up of players and technical officials drawn from across the five South-East states, reflecting a united regional effort towards rebuilding the game.
Coach Chiedozi Nwoye will lead the technical crew as Chief Coach, while Coach Kinsley Achu will serve as Assistant Coach. Kennedy Onwunali will serve as the club’s Media Manager.
Speaking on the development, Coach Victor Oguguo described the qualification as a welcome development for basketball growth in the South-East, adding that the emergence of Coal City Blazers would help create more opportunities for young players in the region.
Also reacting, Mr. Humphrey Njoku commended Udezue for fulfilling his promise to support basketball development, noting that the achievement would inspire more private sector involvement in the sport.
In his remarks, Philip Ekeh said the qualification of the club reflects the determination of stakeholders in the South-East to reposition basketball and compete favourably at the national level.
The team has intensified preparations ahead of the championship and is expected to depart for Benin City this weekend for the competition.
Stakeholders have expressed confidence that Coal City Blazers will make a strong impression in the league and further promote basketball development in the South-East.
