Southwest 3×3 Championship Heats Up As Quarter-Finalists Emerge

Southwest 3×3 Championship Heats Up As Quarter-Finalists Emerge

By BSN Sports 

Ondo Raiders have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the ongoing Southwest 3×3 Basketball Championship taking place at Democracy Park following an impressive run in the preliminary stage of the competition, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Akure-based side emerged as one of the standout teams on Saturday after recording more than four victories in their opening matches, delighting home supporters with a series of dominant performances.

Another Ondo State side, Ondo Kings, endured a mixed start to the tournament but remain hopeful of improving their performances as the competition progresses.

Other teams that have advanced to the knockout stage include Lagos-based outfits Lasgidi Kings and Eko Islanders, alongside Oyo Braves, who also impressed spectators with strong displays during the preliminary round.

The intensity and competitiveness of the matches forced organisers to extend the preliminary fixtures into Sunday morning before the commencement of the knockout rounds.

Speaking after one of the matches, Ondo State head coach Sola Aluko praised the commitment and performances of his players while describing the championship as an important platform for talent discovery and basketball development in Nigeria and across Africa.

According to Aluko, the competition has showcased a high level of tactical discipline and technical quality among participating teams.

“The championship is highly competitive, and we have seen many talented players and coaches. Nigeria remains blessed with gifted athletes, and tournaments like this are important for the growth of basketball,” he said.

The remaining preliminary fixtures are expected to conclude at Democracy Park before the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final games begin later in the day.

Organisers of the championship also confirmed that winning teams and outstanding individuals will receive prizes and special awards at the end of the tournament.

The event has attracted significant attention from basketball enthusiasts, with fans expected to enjoy entertainment activities and giveaways alongside the matches.

Among notable personalities present at the championship was former D'Tigers captain Olamide Oyedeji, whose appearance added further excitement to the competition.