Basketball in Africa

The four American-based coaches who were part of the first Royal Hoopers Basketball Camp for elite players which ran from August 27 through 30 in the city of Port-Harcourt, Alex Nwaora, Head coach of Erie Community College, Buffallo, New York and head of the Global Sports advantage, Jackie Knowles, Tyrone Duren and Myke Scholl have pledged to return to the Garden City next year for the camp.

Coach Nwaora, who spoke on behalf of other coaches said they never imagined to see the great turn out of players as they saw at the camp.
'I must confess, it was a great camp and though it was hard work keeping pace with the kids, we had great fun teaching the kids what they should know about the game.'
'It has been three wonderful days its fun filled camping for players who showed great enthusiasm to learn. And from what we saw and given the openness of the organisers, we're ready to do more for Nigeria basketball because there is great potential here I must confess.'

He stated that despite having been part of several camps over the years, he is glad to be associated with the Royal Hoopers Elite camp which for him has been one of the very best. 'There's so much to be done for our basketball in Nigeria and and with the right environment, we can go all the way.'

Awardees at the camp included Joefry Moses of Royal Hoopers emerged the most promising player, the most hard working camper went to Olalekan Ajayi of Dodan Warriors, Most Improved camper went to Yemi Makanjuola of the Police Rookies team, while the 3 MVP All-Star game went to Deji Egbeyemi of Ebun Comet and the Most Valuable camper emerged Harry Ezenibe of AHIP basketball club.

by Olusegun Ikuesan