In anticipation of the 27th National University Games Association (NUGA) tournament, the University of Jos basketball team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. Players have been dedicating extra hours to training at the PG basketball court, showcasing their commitment to success.
During a recent training session at the postgraduate (P.G) hostel court, Unijos Echo had the opportunity to interact with some standout players who are expected to make a mark in the upcoming NUGA games. Notable among them is Opara Delight, a player for Rebirth Basketball Academy with international experience. Other standout players include Donatus Chidera Henry, Donatus Chukwurah Hilary, Abdul Selman, Peace David, Katherine Bunyok, Longnan Ladan, and Chiwetelu Victor.
Donatus Chidera Henry, a 300-level student majoring in Geography and Planning and a member of the Rebirth Basketball Academy (RBBA), shared his journey into basketball. He expressed that his initial aspiration was to become an NBA team player, but over time, he developed a genuine passion and love for the sport.
Donatus also revealed that he has not previously participated in any international games or NUGA tournaments. Despite the academic workload, he emphasized his commitment to intense daily training, showcasing the dedication and determination of the University of Jos basketball team as they prepare to host and compete in the prestigious NUGA tournament.
Another talent to watch out for certainly has to be Chiwetelu Victor a 200-level student in the department of Fine and applied art, who shares his intention of making his country proud on international stages
“Basketball is a very interesting and enjoyable game, I’ve had an interest in this sport since I was little and I want to play professionally and make my country proud”, he said.
Also speaking with an international player, Opara Delight a 100levl student of Science lab Technology (SLT), expresses his passion for the sports saying;
“l play basketball because it has always been my dream to become a professional basketball player and it’s a place of solace for me, a place of peace where I can go and forget all of my worries.”
Delight, who is also a member of the Rebirth Academy says he trains in the evenings and on weekends which are his free time.
He also anticipates participating in the forthcoming National University Games.
Photo credit: Longnan Ladan
Ladan Longnaan Levi, a 300-level student of quantity survey, told Unijos Echo that basketball is their way of life.
In his words “Basketball is many things to the ballers but we can easily say it’s our way of life.
Laden stressed the need and importance of hard work in preparation for the forthcoming University Games highlighting his workout routines
“At times, I work out early in the morning from 6:00 am to 7:00 am then I’m out again in the evening with everybody else usually from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Laden also added that although he has never participated in any NUGA competition before, he is ready to put in the work and energy to come out victorious in the forthcoming game. stressing the need to improve his skills to avoid miscommunication among team members.
“I will put in more effort to work on my skills and know how to play with my teammates. This will help us to avoid miscommunication when we come together to play.”
By Akagha Oluchukwu Brosie
