By Kingsley Uzowulu
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, has congratulated Heartland Queens FC on their historic qualification for the final of the 2026 Federation Cup, while also celebrating the NBA Draft selection of Imo-born basketball sensation, Ugonna Onyenso.
In a statement jointly signed by the association’s chairman, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and secretary, Tunde Liadi, Imo SWAN praised Heartland Queens for their impressive run in the competition, describing their achievement as a product of determination, hard work, resilience, and teamwork.
The Owerri-based female football club secured their place in the Federation Cup final for the first time and will now face Nasarawa Amazons in the decisive encounter scheduled to hold on July 11, 2026, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.
The sports writers’ body expressed confidence that Heartland Queens have what it takes to compete strongly in the final and urged the team to remain focused as they aim to make history for Imo State and the South East.
Meanwhile, Imo SWAN also applauded Ugonna Onyenso following his selection in the 2026 NBA Draft, describing the milestone as a major inspiration for young athletes in Imo State and Nigeria.
The association noted that Onyenso’s rise to the global basketball stage reflects the potential and talent within the state, urging him and Heartland Queens to continue representing Imo with pride on national and international platforms.
Imo SWAN further assured both the team and the NBA draftee of the continued support and goodwill of sports stakeholders and fans across the state.
