LSBBA Introduces Classics, grassroot development

The Lagos State Basketball Association (LSBBA) has introduced the Classic into this year's activities. LSBBA boss, Babs Ogunade said the classic would involve six teams in the male category and five in the female with the ABC male and female teams from Ivory Coast, CBS male team from Togo and the female national team of Niger Republic against two male and two female teams from the City league, two teams from the Savannah Conference and a top female team from the South South geo-political zone of Nigeria.

The former Nigeria senior national team forward revealed that the Classic will hold during the June break period of the City league which is billed to start in March this year.

He said the competition will give the Nigerians to test their strength against opposition from other countries without waiting for the Africa Basketball Federation's organised championship..

Also speaking on the league which debuted last year, Ogunde stated that the event would be better this year as efforts were on to secure sponsors for the league.

"Last year, we had no sponsor for the city league. But there are indications that sponsor will identify with the championship this year. The would-be sponsors were present at last year's event and some have already expressed their readiness to partner LSBBA.

The LSBBA boss revealed that the success recorded at last year's city league gave rise to the introduction of the classic assuring that both championships will definitely get sponsors.

Speaking on how it was possible to hold the league without a sponsor, Ogunade said that the board members provided the funds which he described as unprecedented in Nigeria.

The LSBBA chairman said that this years edition would be better as discussion have already been held with would-be sponsors. He expressed hope that the proposals will get favourable attention.

Though he did not disclose the amount being targeted by his association, he however revealed that the body will work within the funds raised.

"We are putting a lot of effort into the league and that is why we are working ahead of time. It is also our intention to make the championship more glamorous and also appealing to the players and official who will participate.

"There are innovations that will also thrill the athletes, sponsors and the media. Award will also be given for the coverage.

He added that the Association is also working to marry promotional and developmental Basketball while competitions would be held to promote the game, efforts will also be made to develop the game at the school level.

Ogunade said the major problem with developing the game is the unavailability of structures in the schools. He however assured that zonal competitions would be held to usher in a grand finale at the Mobolaji Johnson Sport Hall, Rowe Park, Yaba.

He also revealed that clinic will be held for referees and coaches to update their knowledge.