Kwara Falcons of Ilorin have emerged winners of the inaugural Louis Edem Men Invitational Basketball Championship held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos State.
The Kwara Falcons of Ilorin defeated Ghana’s Spintex Knights of Accra 65-57.
Kwara Falcons won the ₦2 million prize and other consolation prizes at the maiden edition of the championship, which took place between February 6th – 11th February, 2023 and had about 10 clubs playing for honours.
Black Knights of Accra, who were the only international team, received one million Naira and other consolation prizes.
The Head Coach of Kwara Falcons, Baba Jibril, said after their victory:
“We are happy to lift the trophy and so far won back to back Invitational tourneys to the delight of our fans and sponsors,” Jibril said.
“We worked hard and prepared well for every tournament we go for, we understand that the expectations on us is high and we hope to match it up at every other game.”
The tournament coordinator, Louis Edem, said that he was proud of the whole activities, revealing that he was encouraged by the success and would do more for the sport.
“The tournament was a successful one, it had everything that I hope to see and I am highly encouraged to stage another edition next year.
“However, I intend to give the women a chance to prove themselves as I would be staging the women’s version in a few months time.”
Other teams that participated in the inaugural Louis Edem Men Invitational Basketball Championship included Rivers Hoopers of Port Harcourt, Warlords of Lagos, Lagos Legends, Gidi Giants, Raptors of Lagos, Comets of Lagos, University of Lagos and Police Batons of Lagos.
