Veritas University Crowned Champions of Inaugural NBA REC University Tournament
Veritas University emerged champions of the inaugural NBA REC University Tournament after defeating the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) 41-36 in the championship game held at the University of Lagos Sports Center on August 8.
The two-day tournament, which ran from August 7-8, brought together eight universities from across Nigeria: University of Lagos, Lagos State University of Education, Veritas University, University of Ibadan, Lagos State University, Lead City University, Afe Babalola University and University of Abuja.
Following the opening-day group stage, Veritas University, Afe Babalola University, UNIABUJA and UNILAG advanced to the semi-finals. UNILAG secured third place after defeating ABUAD 57-50, before Veritas University completed its impressive campaign by overcoming UNIABUJA in the final.
ABUAD forward Anthony Chioke was named the NBA REC University Tournament Most Valuable Player for his performances throughout the competition.
Beyond the basketball action, the tournament featured halftime entertainment and fan engagement activities, including giveaways, dance performances and musical performances by Nigerian artistes Taves and Samad.
NBA REC is the league’s recreational basketball platform for players aged 18 and above, with a focus on enhancing university, community and adult basketball experiences.
The Nigerian university tournament was organised through the NBA’s collaboration with Future Concerns Nigeria Limited and Munch It.
The event attracted a number of notable personalities, including Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development Mobolaji Ogunlende, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sports Marketing Onaopepo Adu, Nigeria Basketball Federation Vice President Babatunde Ogunade, Future Concerns Nigeria Limited Chief Operating Officer Ernest Ugwuzor, Tolaram Events, Sponsorships and Partnerships Manager Frankie Ohwo, Aliko Dangote Foundation Projects Director Zakari Momodu and Nigerian college basketball player Reuben Chinyelu.
Music and entertainment personalities including Groovymono and Laycon were also among the guests at the tournament.
The launch forms part of the NBA’s wider commitment to growing basketball in Nigeria through grassroots development and cultural initiatives, including NBA Crossover and NBA Meets Art. Fans can also relive highlights from the inaugural tournament on the NBA Nigeria YouTube channel.
