The Zenith Bank/NBBF Basketball League Final 8 tipped off in Nigeria with MFM, First Bank, Sky Queens and Nigeria Customs all recording victories on the opening day, though repeated power failures and lengthy delays cast a shadow over the competition.
MFM delivered the most emphatic statement, crushing Bayelsa Blue Whales in a result that signalled their intent. First Bank also bounced back to winning form, while Sky Queens of Abuja began their campaign with a composed 55-36 defeat of Titans Basketball Club. Nigeria Customs rounded off the day's programme by capitalising on Air Warriors' off-target shooting to win 55-41.
However, the biggest talking point was the organisation of the event. The opening fixture, originally slated for 10:00 a.m., did not begin until roughly 1:00 p.m., a delay of about three hours. The late start disrupted the rest of the schedule, and power outages hit multiple games, including a stoppage of over 40 minutes during the third quarter of Sky Queens' match.
The lack of a clear explanation for the initial delay left teams and spectators uncertain about the timetable. Questions are now being asked about the venue's readiness to host a major national women's basketball event, with several of the country's leading clubs competing for the title.
Organisers will need to address the issues around facilities, power supply, scheduling and communication to ensure the remaining days of the Final 8 run more smoothly.
