Nkechi Akashili scored 32 points to lead First Bank basketball club past their arch rivals, Dolphins in the final of the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League on Wednesday in Lagos.
First Bank beat Dolphins 84-66 points to win the the 14th edition of the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League played at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium Lagos.
Akashili who was the star of the day added 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Ifunnanya Okoro contributed 13 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals.
Nkem Akaraiwe recorded a double-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds to go with it and 4 blocks.
Dolphins were let down by the number of turn overs committed 25-13 while surrendering the ball 20 times to First Bank.
Three players finished in double digits for Dolphins, Veronica Charles scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. While Fumnaya Ijeh and Joy Osanyawon both made 10 points each in the game.
Bintu Badmus who was one shy of a double-double, had 9 points and 11 rebounds.
Champions First Bank and Dolphins will represent Nigeria at the FIBA Africa Women’s Champions Cup Qualifiers in Contonou between November 12-15..
Earlier in the day, Nigeria Customs beat new comers MFM 57-49 in the third place game.
Rebecca Iritei scored (11)points, Ebere Okeke (13)points and Blessing Dabor (16) points for Customs.
The Elephant Girls went home with a cash prize of N1m, Dolphins won N500,000 for their second place finished while N250,000 was given to Customs.
