Veritas University wins first NBA tournament in Lagos

Veritas University beat the University of Abuja 41-36 to win the first NBA REC University Tournament. This event took place at the University of Lagos Sports Centre, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

The tournament lasted two days and featured eight university teams from around Nigeria. These teams included the 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.

On the first day, teams played in a group stage. Veritas, ABUAD, UNIABUJA, and UNILAG moved on to the semi-finals. On the second day, UNILAG claimed third place by beating ABUAD 57-50. Later, Veritas faced UNIABUJA in the final and won, taking home the first NBA REC University Tournament trophy.

Anthony Chioke from ABUAD was named the tournament MVP.

The event also included halftime activities. Fans enjoyed giveaways, dance shows, and music from Nigerian artists Taves and Samad. This made the tournament fun for everyone, not just those watching the games.

NBA REC is the league's platform for recreational basketball players aged eighteen and above. It aims to improve basketball experiences in universities, communities, and among adults in Nigeria.

The tournament was organized through a partnership between the NBA, Future Concerns Nigeria Limited, and Munch It.

The event saw many important guests. They included Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development; Onaopepo Adu, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sports Marketing; Babatunde Ogunade, Vice President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation; and Ernest Ugwuzor, Chief Operating Officer of Future Concerns Nigeria Limited. Other attendees were Frankie Ohwo from Tolaram, Zakari Momodu from the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Reuben Chinyelu, a college basketball player, and entertainers Groovymono and Laycon.

This launch continues the NBA's commitment to growing basketball in Nigeria. They focus on grassroots development and cultural projects like NBA Crossover and NBA Meets Art. Fans can watch the tournament's highlights on the NBA Nigeria YouTube channel.