Naija's Home-grown talents shine at BAL Qualifiers
- Victor Komonibo
- Nov 23, 2022
- 2 min read
Basketball in Nigeria has been through turbulent times, but the hunger and passion for the game remain the same.
The hiatus certainly slowed the rate at which the standard improved, but the players haven't let up, with several home-grown talents competing in the BAL qualifiers - fans look forward to the dawn of a new era as the smoke finally clears.
Micheal Okiki Afuwape, Chinedu Chimbuo, and Wisdom Anyaoha represented Elan Coton basketball club of Benin republic, while Kanyinsola Odufuwa suited up for Nigelec Basket club, and it was pretty clear who the standouts were.
Top(L-R) Kanyinsola Odufuwa, Micheal Okiki Bottom (L-R) Wisdom Anyaoha, Chinedu Chimbuo
Photo Credit: FIBA
6'5 guard, Kanyinsola, was by far the most skilled player every time he took the court. His size and ability to score on all three levels made him a matchup nightmare. Unfortunately, his team did not advance to the final round of qualifiers, but he certainly made the continent take notice.
Elan Coton BC defeated 2022 BAL quarter-finalist AS Sale thanks to Okiki's 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 steals. His athleticism, shot-making ability, and sheer will had spectators on the edge of their seats. He followed that up with a 19/8/5 performance against Bangui sporting club. Although Elan Coton fell short of the goal, Okiki put on a show in three games, averaging 16.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists.
His running mate, Chinedu Chimbuo wasn't far behind. His numbers, 6.7ppg, 8rpg, don't do justice to what he brought to the table for an undersized team. Chinedu was a force to reckon with in the paint, terrorizing opposing teams at will on both ends of the court.
Wisdom Anyaocha didn't get much playing time, but he showed his feel for the game with great off-ball movement, creating looks off the dribble for himself and his teammates.
It's safe to say that these players have shown that home-grown talent can perform under bright lights. The only thing slowing them down is a consistent platform.
With the East division in play, the growing success of home-grown players may finally put an end to the notion that has hampered young players' progression to the big stage.
Players in the East Division:
Emmanuel Umeadi – Club Omnisports Police Nationale (Madagascar)
Rueben Abuchi – NBA Acabdemy
Emmanuel Okoroafor – NBA Academy
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