Connect with us

Sports

Presence of Nigerian Players in NBA Basketball Grows Stronger Than Ever

Published

on

Nigerian Players in NBA

Nigeria has quietly churned out some of the world’s best basketball talent for nearly four decades. 

Some of the nation’s hardcourt claims-to-fame are homegrown while others are connected through family heritage. Either way, Nigeria’s influence on global basketball and the National Basketball Association (NBA), North America’s top tier in the sport, is at an all-time high.

Nigerian Dominance Begins with a Dream

The history of Nigerians in the NBA traces back to one superstar—Hakeem Olajuwon. The mighty seven-footer from Lagos debuted as the league’s first native African with the Houston Rockets in 1984.

Olajuwon started his athletic career as a soccer goalkeeper, eventually transitioning to basketball at the age of 17.

Despite his relative obscurity, he received an invitation to play basketball in the US with the University of Houston Cougars. Olajuwon’s skills rapidly developed in the American college ranks. By his third season with the Cougars, he had earned the nickname Hakeem “The Dream” for a seemingly effortless style of slam dunking. Fans and the basketball press considered him the best amateur player in the nation.

Olajuwon’s call to turn pro was answered when the Houston Rockets chose him with their first pick in the 1984 draft. That year, future NBA Hall-of-Famers Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton were drafted behind Olajuwon.

The Dream spent 17 seasons in the NBA between 1984 and 2002. He was awarded the league MVP in 1994 and led the Rockets to consecutive championships in 1994 and 1995. One of the greatest centres of all time, Olajuwon was enshrined in the NBA Hall-of-Fame in 2008.

Nigerians and sports fans across Africa followed The Dream’s career. He grew basketball’s popularity throughout the continent to new heights.

Naturally, Nigeria was the first country targeted by the NBA when its Basketball Without Borders (BWB) program launched in Africa in 2003. BWB is responsible for cultivating the NBA and FIBA brands while developing international talent.

Today, Nigeria’s impact is felt at the very top of basketball. Take Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, for example. Antetokounmpo was born to a Nigerian family that emigrated to Greece from Lagos. Antetokounmpo looms large as one of the NBA’s brightest stars. He is greatly responsible for fueling Milwaukee’s rise to the top of American NBA betting odds and his team’s push into the playoffs in each of the last four seasons.

NBA Players

Nigeria Celebrated at 2020 NBA Draft

If the signals weren’t already clear, November 28, 2020, proved Nigeria’s influence on the league once and for all. The date marked last year’s NBA draft, an occasion that saw pro teams select eight players of Nigerian heritage.

The Cleveland Cavaliers started the action by selecting Isaac Okoro in the first round with the fifth overall pick. Okoro, a six-foot-six-inch deft ball handler out of Auburn University, was born in the US to Nigerian parents.

Following Okoro, Onyeka Okongwu was chosen by the Atlanta Hawks as the draft’s sixth pick. Okongwu, another US-born prospect of Nigerian heritage, previously played at the University of Southern California.

The Miami Heat plucked University of Memphis standout Precious Achiuwa with the 20th overall pick. He joins four other players of Nigerian heritage on the Heat: Bam Adebayo, Andre Iguodala, Kezie Okpala, and Gabe Vincent.

Zeke Nnaji (22nd overall), Udoka Azubuike (27th overall), and Desmond Bane (30th overall) completed the first round of Nigeria-connected talent. Nnaji went to the Denver Nuggets, Azubuike was picked up by the Utah Jazz, while Bane currently dons a Memphis Grizzlies uniform.

The selections of Achiuwa and Azubuike mark the first time two Nigerian-born players were taken in the first round.

Nigerians selected in the second round included Daniel Oturu (33rd overall, Los Angeles Clippers) and Jordan Nwora (45th overall, Milwaukee Bucks).

Thirty-seven years after Olajuwon opened the door for Africans to enter the NBA, Nigeria’s sway in basketball’s golden league is stronger than ever.

Efforts such as the BWB program are also responsible for Nigerians developing a love for the game. Current US college basketball players such as Efe Abogidi (Washington State) and Abdul Ado (Mississippi State) ensure Nigeria’s influence will be felt for years to come.

Aduragbemi Omiyale is a journalist with Business Post Nigeria, who has passion for news writing. In her leisure time, she loves to read.

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Sports

Unveiling the Thrill of Online Casinos: Slots, Games, and More

Published

on

Online Casinos

The innovation of online casinos has transformed how people enjoy leisure and gaming activities. From anywhere and at any time, online casinos have opened their doors to literally everyone, ensuring that the most convenient and exciting kinds of entertainment are within reach.

Whether spinning the reels in popular slot games or plotting out the next move in poker, online casinos bring a virtual get-away like none other. For a deeper understanding of strategies, tips, and insights, one can look to resources such as blog.20bet.com, which provides very valuable information to make your gaming experience even better. Now, let’s get a closer look at the fascinating world of online casinos.

Online Casino Evolution

The journey of online casinos began in the mid-1990s with the advent of the Internet. Fast forward to today, and the industry has mushroomed into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. But to what can its phenomenal popularity be attributed?

Ease of Access and Convenience

One of the major reasons why online casinos have prospered is the convenience they offer. It means that with a smartphone, tablet, or computer, players can play any time, anywhere.

Multitude of Games

Unlike land-based casinos, online casinos offer a plethora of games on their roster. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette, to creative slots with engaging themes, there’s something for every gamer’s taste.

Slot Games: Entertainment for All

Slot games are the most enjoyed amusement in the world of online casinos. The simplicity of the game, combined with appealing graphics and lucrative bonuses, has made it a favorite both for amateur and professional players.

Why Slots Are a Favorite Among People

Easy to Play: Slots are the easiest casino game to play, and there is absolutely no need for experience or strategies.

Creative Themes: Starting from mythology to adventure, slot games are designed with various themes that attract players.

Jackpots: Progressive slots boast of life-altering jackpots which grow with each new spin.

Features of the Best Slots

High RTP: Games with high RTP percentages offer a very good chance of winning.

Bonus Rounds: Look out for slots offering free spins, multipliers, and more.

Mobile Compatibility: Make sure it works on your device.

Table Games: Where Strategy and Entertainment Meet

Table games will satisfy those who want to feel some strategy with their luck. In these games, players will need more engagement and are particularly rewarding when well played.

Popular Table Games

Blackjack: A game of skill and strategy, players try to outdo the dealer without going over 21. Roulette: A very exciting game of chance in which gamblers bet on where the ball will land on a spinning wheel. Poker: From Texas Hold’em to Omaha, poker is all about bluffing, strategy, and calculated risks. Tips for Table Games Success Understand the Rules: First, understand the rules and strategies of the game.

Free Games to Practice: Many sites offer free versions to hone your skills.

Bankroll Management: Set limits and stick to them to avoid overspending.

Live Casino Games: Bringing Realism to Your Screen

The introduction of live dealer games has narrowed the gap between traditional casinos and online casino games. In these games, real dealers host the games, and it is broadcast in real-time for an authentic experience right in your living room.

Advantages of Live Dealer Games

Real-Time Interaction: Chat with dealers and other players to create a social atmosphere.

High Stakes: Many live games cater to high rollers looking for more intense gaming sessions.

Variety: Enjoy games like live blackjack, baccarat, and game show-inspired titles like “Crazy Time.”

Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Experience

Online casinos often attract players with enticing bonuses and promotions. These offers can significantly enhance your gameplay if used wisely.

Common Types of Bonuses

Welcome Bonus: A reward for signing up, often including deposit matches and free spins.

No Deposit Bonus: Get a small bonus without making an initial deposit.

Loyalty Programs: Earn points with every wager and redeem them for rewards.

How to Choose the Best Bonus

Read the Terms and Conditions: Understand the wagering requirements beforehand.

Check the Validity Period: Make sure that the time given by the bonus is sufficient enough to meet its requirements.

Focus on Your Favorite Games: Some bonuses are game-specific. Choose ones that suit your interests.

Responsible Gaming: A Key Aspect of Enjoyment

While online casinos are a source of entertainment, it’s essential to practice responsible gaming to ensure a positive experience.

Tips for Responsible Gaming

Set a Budget: Decide on a spending limit before you start playing.

Take Breaks: Avoid long gaming sessions to maintain a healthy balance.

Know your Limits: Don’t chase losses; it’s better to walk away and try another day.

Tools at the Player’s Aid

Most online casinos include features for self-exclusion, setting deposit limits, and reality checks that may enable responsible gaming.

Future of Online Casinos

With technology Burke, the online casino industry is bound to reach newer heights. Following are a few trends that are going to shape its future:

Virtual Reality Casinos

Just imagine being inside a virtual casino playing games and communicating with other players, as if you were sitting across from each other. This is the reality that VR technology is bringing into being.

Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are becoming increasingly popular. They provide quicker transactions with added security. Fairness in gaming is ensured through the transparency provided by blockchain technology.

Continue Reading

Sports

NFF Appoints Former Mali’s Manager Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Coach

Published

on

Eric Chelle Super Eagles

By Dipo Olowookere

The former manager of Mali’s national football team, Mr Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

The appointment of Mr Chelle was announced on Tuesday night by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The first job of the new coach will be to guide the home-base Super Eagles team to victory at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by the trio of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1–28, 2025.

He will work with the current Super Eagles B coaching staff, which includes Daniel Ogunmodede, Fidelis Ilechukwu, and Olatunji Baruwa, who successfully guided the team through CHAN qualifiers.

The biennial football tournament is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sponsored by an oil giant, TotalEnergies.

Mr Chelle would be expected to deploy his tactics to ensure a successful outing of the home-based Super Eagles at the competition and also revive the main team, according to the president of the NFF, Mr Ibrahim Gusau.

“We want whoever takes charge of the team to begin immediately, which is why the same coach will manage the CHAN Eagles.

“This allows us to identify promising home-based players who can contribute to the senior national team,” he stated.

Business Post reports that the new coach was favoured for the new job by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee of the federation and endorsed by the executive committee.

One of his biggest tasks will be to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States of America (USA).

At the moment, Nigeria occupies fifth position and will play the next qualifiers in two months’ time.

Mr Chelle led the Mali national team to quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He is the latest foreign coach appointed by the NFF to manage the country’s national team.

Continue Reading

Sports

Arsenal, Liverpool in Carabao Cup Semifinal Action Live on GOtv

Published

on

Carabao Cup

The race for the first silverware of the 2024/25 season intensifies as Premier League leaders Liverpool and second-placed Arsenal will be in Carabao Cup semifinal action this midweek.

Arsenal will host Newcastle United in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, while Liverpool travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday. Both matches will be broadcast live on GOtv Channel 65 at 9 PM.

Fresh from their impressive 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, Newcastle will aim to build on their momentum and secure a favorable result ahead of the second leg at St. James’ Park. The Magpies have already defeated Arsenal 1-0 earlier this season, and another strong performance could leave the Gunners with a steep hill to climb in the second leg.

Newcastle will be without their influential captain, Bruno Guimarāes due to suspension, while Arsenal battle with illness issues in the squad which has seen Kai Havertz miss the last two matches.

Arsenal, who haven’t lifted the Carabao Cup in 31 years, view this competition as a vital chance for silverware, especially with their league title hopes fading.

On the other side of North London, Tottenham Hotspur face defending champions Liverpool, hoping to avoid a repeat of their 6-3 thrashing by their visitors just 17 days ago. Spurs have managed just one win in their last eight matches at home in all competitions—a narrow 4-3 victory over Manchester United in the quarterfinal. Their last taste of silverware came 17 years ago when they won this competition.

Meanwhile, Liverpool, who have lost just one match all season, are chasing an ambitious quadruple. A victory over Spurs on Wednesday would put them on the brink of securing a spot in the final at Wembley.

Football fans can enjoy all Carabao Cup matches, Premier League, Serie A, Laliga and Champions League action live by reconnecting or upgrading to the GOtv Super Plus package. Simply dial *288# to renew or upgrade your subscription.

Continue Reading

Trending